National Coal Mining Museum

national coal mining museum location

About

Understand the story of coal and its indelible impact on the nation:

  • Delve into the tales of life as a coal miner and existence in a mining community.
  • Join a ‘darn pit’ tour led by an experienced ex-miner who guides visitors 140m underground spanning 180 years of mining history.
  • Explore galleries showcasing the evolution of mines and their communities.
  • Engage with interactive models and view colossal mining machinery.
  • Chat to onsite blacksmiths and see the Miners’ Memorial Garden.
  • Enjoy nature’s serenade in the woodlands and see reed beds purifying the mine water.
  • Meet friendly ponies and horses, and let the young ones have fun in the Adventure Playground.

Useful Information for Visitors

  • No pre-booking required for surface visits.
  • Inform Reception about group size for all surface activities.
  • Option to pre-book Underground Tours on weekends and school holidays, with ample availability on arrival.
  • Two pre-bookable timeslots during term-time weekdays at 11am & 2pm.
  • All Underground Tour attendees must check in at Reception to obtain their Miner’s check.
  • Maximum of fifteen attendees per tour.
  • For parties of eight or more, group bookings are essential via Reception.
  • Face coverings underground are voluntary.
  • Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas. Only Assistance/Service dogs are allowed indoors.
  • Onsite Café offers a variety of refreshments.

Getting There

The Museum is located between Wakefield and Huddersfield (WF4 4RH):

  • Ample parking for cars, coaches, disabled visitors, and families with young children.
  • Bus services, such as the Yorkshire Tiger 232, run nearby.
  • Wakefield Westgate is the closest mainline railway station.
  • Bicycle racks available for eco-conscious visitors near the Café entrance. Research routes here.

Accessibility

While the Museum prioritises authenticity by preserving original colliery sites, it also considers accessibility:

  • Some areas might pose challenges for wheelchair users.
  • Regular SEN workshops are hosted.
  • Guide and assistance dogs are welcome, with provisions like a water bowl near the Café.
  • For tailored assistance, visitors can call 01924 848806 in advance.
  • Wheelchair users for the Underground Tour must sign an evacuation disclaimer.

Opening Hours

  • Open from Wednesday to Sunday.
  • Underground Tours operate from 10:00am to 3:30pm with frequent departures.
  • Some attractions, like the Paddy Train and Snap Tin Café, have seasonal operations.

Prices:

The National Coal Mining Museum is FREE. Donations are gratefully accepted.

Where

National Coal Mining Museum, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH
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