Coal mining in Whitehaven dates back to the thirteenth century when the monks from St Bees Abbey supervised the opening of coal mines at Arrowthwaite. This long history ended abruptly in March 1986 when Haig Pit, Cumbria's last deep coal mine, finally closed.
During this time, the gassy nature of the mines had caused many violent explosions. Over 1200 men, women, and children have been killed in the Whitehaven pits while winning coal in workings up to four miles out beneath the Solway Firth.
No Comments Yet - Why not be the first to leave a comment
Every effort is made to make sure that all the information is correct but we strongly recommend that you call Haig Colliery Mining Museum before you set off on your day out to confirm opening times and admission prices.
Please also note that the position on Google maps for Haig Colliery Mining Museum is a rough estimate using their postcode in the database and might be slightly out.
It may also be worth clicking the web link for Haig Colliery Mining Museum to see if there are any special events coming up or currently on.
Haig Colliery Mining Museum