Bleakley Plantation

Wood, Forest in Derbyshire Derbyshire Dales

England

Bleakley Plantation

Broadmeadow Shaft Adjacent to the cottages here, which were once the offices of the Alport Mining Company, can be seen a large mound which marks the site of the Broadmeadow Shaft on the Alport mines. This company was an amalgamation of various separate mining concerns and operated the very rich lead mines of this area. They were classed as the most heavily watered mines in the country and suffered from inflows of more than 6000 gallons a minute. Consequently, heavy pumping was necessary, chiefly by water pressure engines which used a column of water to power them. The well known Cornish engineer, Richard Trevithick was consulted and he was responsible for the first of many such underground machines within this region. Water to power the engine in this shaft was taken from the River Lathkill and over Alport village in wooden launders and then by a tunnel to the shaft. All the pumped water, along with that used by the engines (of which there were upwards of seven scattered throughout the workings) was drained away by the deep Hillcarr Sough, a tunnel driven from the River Derwent near Darley Dale. — Broadmeadow Shaft Credit: Richard Bird

Bleakley Plantation is a historical site located in Derbyshire, England. Situated in the heart of a dense woodland area, it encompasses a vast expanse of lush greenery and towering trees. The plantation is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Covering an area of approximately 500 acres, Bleakley Plantation is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest is predominantly composed of oak, birch, and beech trees, creating a picturesque landscape that changes dramatically with the seasons. In spring, the woodland is adorned with vibrant blossoms and fresh foliage, while in autumn, the forest floor is blanketed with a riot of colorful fallen leaves.

The plantation holds great historical significance, dating back to the 18th century. It was originally established as a timber plantation, providing a valuable resource for the local community. Over the years, it has also served as a hunting ground for the aristocracy, showcasing its rich heritage.

Today, Bleakley Plantation offers a range of recreational activities for visitors. There are numerous walking trails that meander through the forest, allowing visitors to explore its hidden treasures and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The plantation also hosts educational programs and guided tours, providing insight into its history and ecological importance.

Bleakley Plantation, with its breathtaking natural beauty and historical significance, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of serenity and cultural enrichment.

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Bleakley Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.163497/-1.6809724 or Grid Reference SK2162. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Broadmeadow Shaft

Adjacent to the cottages here, which were once the offices of the Alport Mining Company, can be seen a large mound which marks the site of the Broadmeadow Shaft on the Alport mines. This company was an amalgamation of various separate mining concerns and operated the very rich lead mines of this area. They were classed as the most heavily watered mines in the country and suffered from inflows of more than 6000 gallons a minute. Consequently, heavy pumping was necessary, chiefly by water pressure engines which used a column of water to power them. The well known Cornish engineer, Richard Trevithick was consulted and he was responsible for the first of many such underground machines within this region. Water to power the engine in this shaft was taken from the River Lathkill and over Alport village in wooden launders and then by a tunnel to the shaft. All the pumped water, along with that used by the engines (of which there were upwards of seven scattered throughout the workings) was drained away by the deep Hillcarr Sough, a tunnel driven from the River Derwent near Darley Dale.

Richard Bird

Ruined barn near Birchover

Hermit's Cave and Robin Hood's Stride are rocky outcrops on the opposite hill.

Bill Boaden

Path towards Elton

Elton is over the top of the hill seen ahead.

Bill Boaden

Grave of John Millington, railway navvy, Youlgreave Churchyard

During the construction of the Midland Railway near Haddon Hall in 1861 a tunnel was insisted upon by the Duke of Rutland so that the line could not be seen from the hall. A part of this tunnel collapsed during construction on 2nd July 1861 killing five workers. The grave of one of these can be found in the churchyard. The inscription reads: "In memory of John Millington of Stanton, killed by the falling of an arch on the railway near Haddon Hall, July 2nd 1861 aged 46 years". Reference to his 6 year old daughter is also on the stone whose body rests in Warrick churchyard, Ruthin, North Wales.

Richard Bird

Ivy Bar Brook at Dudwood Lane

Instead of flowing down the north side of Dudwood Lane, the brook, for some reason, flows underneath it to the south side, before immediately looping back to the north again.

Ian Calderwood

The hermit's cave

The hermit's cave is thought to be 14th century in origin but may be older. There would have been a wooden lean-to structure on the outside. It contains the crucifixion carving, pictured in SK2262 : Hermit's cave.

Ian Calderwood

Pond on Harthill Moor

Ian Calderwood

Old reservoir

Now just a pond but marked on old maps as a reservoir, possibly for the hydraulic ram sited a short distance downstream.

Ian Calderwood

Old barn on the edge of Alport

Not yet converted into a luxury residence.

Ian Calderwood

Robin Hood's Stride near Birchover

Colin Park

Stone Stile, Elton

Just off the Limestone Way (Derbyshire footpath Harthill FP 1) allowing private access past the gate, when there had been one. This is looking South, the alternative view North is SK2262 : Stone Stile, Elton.

Jayne Tovey

Stone Stile, Elton

Just off the Limestone Way (Derbyshire footpath Harthill FP 1) allowing private access past the gate, when there had been one. This is looking North, the alternative view South is SK2262 : Stone Stile, Elton.

Jayne Tovey

Stone Stile, Elton

On the Limestone Way (Derbyshire footpath, Harthill FP 1) due North of Elton village looking NW. The view East is SK2262 : Stone Stile, Elton.

Jayne Tovey

Stone Stile, Elton

On the Limestone Way (Derbyshire footpath Harthill FP 1), North of Elton village looking East. The view NW is SK2262 : Stone Stile, Elton.

Jayne Tovey

Stone Stile, Elton

Looking South from Derbyshire footpath Harthill FP 18, onto Limestone Way (footpath Harthill FP 1). The view looking North is SK2262 : Stone Stile, Elton.

Jayne Tovey

Stone Stile, Elton

Leading North to Derbyshire footpath Harthill FP 18 off Limestone Way (footpath Harthill FP 1) looking North. The view looking South is SK2262 : Stone Stile, Elton.

Jayne Tovey