Discover Rocks, Fossils and More at the National Coal Mining Museum

About

Date: Saturday 26 April 2025
Time: 10am – 5pm
Location: National Coal Mining Museum for England, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH
Admission: Free

The National Coal Mining Museum for England invites visitors to uncover the fascinating geology beneath their feet at a special one-day event, Geology Rocks. Organised in partnership with the Yorkshire Geological Society, the day promises hands-on exploration, engaging demonstrations and expert insight into rocks, fossils, and the world of coal mining.

Event Highlights

• Drift Walks
  10.30am & 1pm – Ages 10+ only, booking essential
  Venture down the museum’s steep drift and trace the route once used to transport coal from the mine.
• Surface Walks
  10.30am, 12pm & 2pm – Pre-bookable (meet at Café)
  Explore the surface geology around the museum and the Lister-Kaye Tunnel.
• Fossil Identification & YGS Hub
  10am – 1.30pm, Conference Centre – Free, drop-in
  Have your fossil, mineral or rock specimens identified by geology experts. Enjoy demonstrations, displays and hands-on activities hosted by local groups and societies.
• Rock Cutting
  10am – 1.30pm, The Hub – Free, drop-in
  Bring your own rock to see it sliced open and polished by professionals.
• Science Shows – The Rock Showman
  11.30am – 3.30pm, Learning Space, The Hub – Free, drop-in
  Discover the wonders of coal, minerals, fossils and dinosaurs in a fun and educational science show.
• The Story Shell
  Timings TBC – Free
  Enjoy storytelling sessions inside a giant seashell – ideal for under 5s.
• Makers’ Shed
  12pm – 4pm, Pit Yard – Free, drop-in
  Create your own fossil-inspired craft and learn about the ancient past through creative play.
• The Rock ‘n’ Coal Show
  12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm, Learning Space, The Hub – Free
  Learn how coal formed and discover geological legends like William Smith and Marie Curie through interactive theatre.
• Geological Talks
  1.15pm – 5pm, Conference Centre – Free, drop-in
  Attend a series of short talks from YGS members on topics such as the geology of Caphouse Colliery and the geological makeup of Yorkshire.

Additional Activities

• Paddy Train (weather dependent)
• Rag Rugging
• Discovery Spots & Nature Trail
• Horsekeeper Talks – 12pm & Feeding at 2.30pm
• Pithead Baths Explore – 12pm
• Plus many more family-friendly activities across the site

This free event offers a rich and varied programme suitable for all ages, making it an ideal day out for families, students and anyone curious about the Earth’s fascinating past.