Middleton Mine
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Middleton Mine is the only underground Limestone mine in the UK. The mine itself is split over three levels and stretches a staggering 22 miles underground.
Its unclear when the mine originally opened but its origins date back to when one part of it was used for lead mining. It was only in the 1900s that the mine turned to Limestone mining.
It is estimated that from 1959 to 2001 when the mine finally closed down, some 16 million tonnes of Limestone had been extracted.
The mine is currently decommissioned and all entrances are being sealed.
BAE Sytems also occupied the deepest level of the mine during the 1980s up until the mine closed. This was strictly off limits to everyone except BAE staff and the nature of what went on there was kept classified.
Sources have indicated,but not proved! That BAE used the mine as a testing ground for an experimental electronics weapons testing program???
The mine is a very eerie place and extremely dangerous with huge drops all over the place. On top of this its like a labyrinth, and not paying attention to where you are going could result in you never getting back out!
Since the mine closed virtually all the original machinery was removed. The only things still present now are the various mine shafts and some old conveyor belts scattered about.
The first thing that strikes you with Middleton is its enormous size. The main road through the mine is gianormous. As impressive as the mine is though it is dangerous.
We nearly got lost on numerous occassions whilst wandering down the various shafts and roads which split off from the main road. Some sections are also filled with Radon Gas and in other sections the air is very thin. Adding to the hazards.
Hidden away deep in the centre of the mine is also an underground lake. We didnt actually find this though. Due to our inexperience of mines and lack of relevant safety equipment we decided it would be wise to explore with caution.
What does become apparent whilst wandering further into the mine is the temperature drop. Towards the centre of the mine it gets extremely cold with mist appearing in some shafts.
Along with the blackness which engulfs even the most powerfull torches. The cold and silence which occupies the mine does make it a remarkable explore if somewhat eerie and dangerous.
