A Mine in Bonsall

Richard in a large chamber (by Derbyshire standards)

Today started with no real plan with the exception of being told to "be ready for 9.00am."
After a little discussion beforehand, and some indecision, we headed in the direction of Matlock, with half an idea to do Jugholes cave/mine. However on the way there we formed a better plan.

I had recently been reminded of a mine I've read about before, at Bonsall near Matlock Bath. Access to Ball Eye mine was uncertain from looking online, but I had it on good authority from a fellow mine explorer that it was open and worth exploring. We found a suitable parking spot and kitted up warily, we didn't want to come across any angry locals. Much to our surprise, a happy chap who lives in the little cottage on the Via Gellia below the mine approached us, and we had a quick chat about the quarrying. No problems there then!

Max admiring the MINERALS!!

After a sweaty walk up to the mine entrance, we spent some time faffing at the adit and unfortunately, Max stepped in some poo. Not a great start considering the entrance is a bit of a crawl! After cleaning as much as possible off his welly, we were off. Ball Eye is a great mine with plenty of crawling, climbing, a sketchy ladder, and some decent mineralisation to ogle.

It was a gorgeous day, far too nice to be going underground for nearly 6 hours, but then I always say this, and have no regrets! It would have been nice to take a look at the quarry too but there was a lot of barbed wire to negotiate and the Rising Sun pub in Middleton was calling.

Max exiting a crawl

Great mine, top day, many laughs, thanks again lads!