After parking our car at Chapel Porth we headed along the cliff top coastal path to see the Towanroath Shaft Pumping Engine House - as shown above.
The sea was quite lively. At this time of year (March) there are no lifeguards in attendance - but there is an emergency phone to the Coastguard Service.
The coastal path climbs the cliffs and there are lovely views over the sea.
Markers show the path to follow along the cliffs.
The path climbs gradually ...
... until the Engine House is in view. Of course it's possible to walk for miles along the path which can be seen in the photo.
Once upon a time Cornwall exported tin and copper worldwide, but the industry is no more.
The engine house was once part of the Wheal Coates Copper and Tin Mine.
It was built in 1872 and was used to pump water from the 600 feet deep Towanroath Shaft.
It's hard to imagine that this would have once been a hive of activity with tin and other minerals being exported all around the world. Nowadays mother nature has taken over ... but it's a lovely walk along the cliffs on the coastal path.
The building is Grade II listed so, hopefully will remain in good condition for many years to come. It is now looked after by the National Trust.
Buildings, listed as Grade II (two), indicates that the buildings are “of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them.”
Great pictures of the Engine house and an enjoyable walk and introduction to it from the beach. Lovely blue skies and I rnjoyed seeing the rough sea. I fitted a few of those emergency services telephones when I was with BT. telephones
ReplyDeleteThanks David, the tin mines seem to be a symbol of Cornwall - often see the sign on local cars. A shame that these industries gradually disappear.
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