Location
East of the A488 3 miles south of Pontesbury. Grid ref SJ 373022. A map showing the location of the site is available via the Map showing parks and countryside sites link on this page.
Important News!
Snailbeach Reservoir has no water in it at the moment, the problem is a combination of the extremely low rainfall over the course of the year and the dam wall having lost integrity and leaking. The fish have been removed and re homed in a local pool and have settled in well. We are currently discussing the options for resolving the problem and assessing the costs. Please be aware that the area is now just Soft Mud - Do Not walk on this
About the site
This site is a very important part of Shropshire's industrial heritage and is a protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument
Looking out over the beautiful Rea Brook valley, Snailbeach was once one of the most productive lead mines in the country. Work over the last 10 years has been undertaken to restore the Locomotive Shed, Miners’ “Dry”, Winding Engine House and the Blacksmiths Shop. There are also many other buildings to explore including the Compressor House and Cornish Engine.
These buildings are spread out on many levels across the whole site, and linked by a circular walk, although areas may be withheld from public access to respect residents’ privacy. The Shropshire Mines Trust have been active in the restoration of the mine, and still continue to be involved as custodians. For further information, visit The Shropshire Mines Trust website via the link on this page.
If you or your organisation would like to hold a public event on this site please contact us via the details on this page.
Snailbeach Lead Mine Heritage Project, Stipertones
The Outdoor Recreation Service, along with The Shropshire Mines Trusts Ltd, have applied for, and been successful in obtaining, a £20.000 management agreement grant from English Heritage. This project will help restore the Black Tom mine shaft headgear, helping visitors of all ages and abilities to fully experience the historical lead mining works at the Snailbeach site.
Volunteering Opportunities
There will also be opportunities for more people to get actively involved, participating in volunteering activities to conserve the historical built heritage. The project will also provide training to increase volunteer skills and expertise. Please contact us via the details on this page for more information.
Recreational Activities
- Walking - easy level paths around most of the site. There are areas of moderately difficult terrain with some steep parts, and it may be muddy
- Industrial Heritage Interest
- The site provides access to the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve and Forest Enterprise land, both adjoining