Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial
Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial
Hiking
4.9
(33)
Cycling
5.0
(8)
Running
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
The Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial stands as a poignant man-made monument within the expansive Apedale Community Country Park, located in the borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, England. Situated at an elevation of approximately 241 metres, this historical site serves as a powerful tribute to the region's rich mining heritage, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the industrial past of North Staffordshire.
What draws many visitors to this site is its profound historical significance and its integration into a beautifully redeveloped landscape. The memorial provides a tangible connection to the lives of countless miners, honoring their dedication and hard work. Its location within Apedale Community Country Park, itself a former opencast mine, adds layers of historical context, making it a compelling destination for those interested in local history and industrial heritage.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know the impressive scale of the memorial itself. The centerpiece is a massive pit wheel, measuring 30 feet by 19 feet and weighing 7 tonnes, which originated from the Annesley Colliery in Nottinghamshire. Its journey to Apedale was a significant undertaking, requiring three lorries and assistance from the Territorial Army. Accompanying the wheel is a coal tub, bearing a plaque that reads, "This pit wheel commemorates those of all ages who dedicated their lives to coal mining in Staffordshire."
The memorial is easily accessible within Apedale Community Country Park, which offers a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy numerous paths and tracks suitable for walking, cycling, and family friendly walks. The park's diverse landscape of woodlands, meadows, and pools provides a pleasant backdrop for exploring, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a more energetic hike. There is parking near Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial, making it convenient for those arriving by car.
The creation of the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial is a story of community effort and dedication. Ex-miner Keith Meeson, instrumental in establishing the nearby Apedale Heritage Centre, acquired the wheel for a mere £100. Its restoration and placement were made possible through a £15,000 grant from the Countryside Agency, transforming it into the powerful landmark it is today. This personal connection underscores the deep respect and remembrance the memorial embodies for the mining community.
For those looking to delve deeper into the area's past, the memorial is conveniently located near the Apedale Heritage Centre, which offers authentic underground mine tours and a museum. Additionally, the adjoining Moseley Railway Trust operates the Apedale Valley Light Railway, providing another engaging experience. Exploring the best walks in Apedale near the memorial allows visitors to combine historical reflection with outdoor activity, with many dog friendly routes available throughout the park.
Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply a pleasant day out, the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial and its surrounding park offer a rewarding experience. You can discover a range of routes for hikers, cyclists, and trail runners, all easily planned using komoot. The area provides a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage, inviting visitors to explore its many facets.
Tips
February 24, 2019
Hiking
It took 3 lorries and assistance from the Territorial Army to transport its 30 foot by 19 foot 7 tonnes to Apedale.
Keith Meeson, an ex-miner, can be thanked - he was one of the people responsible for setting up Apedale Heritage Centre and paid what sounds like a bargain £100 for the wheel.
It was a bit more expensive to get the wheel here; a £15,000 Countryside Agency grant helped fund its restoration and placement.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial
5.0
(3)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 240 m
Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
15°C
4°C
15 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial?
The memorial serves as a powerful tribute to the coal mining industry of Staffordshire, commemorating the lives and dedication of miners. It features a massive pit wheel from Annesley Colliery and a coal tub with a plaque honoring those who worked in the mines. It's a tangible link to the region's rich industrial past, located within Apedale Community Country Park, a former opencast mine.
Are there specific trails or routes recommended around the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial?
Yes, Apedale Community Country Park, where the memorial is located, offers a variety of tracks and waymarked routes suitable for different activities. While specific named trails directly from the memorial aren't detailed, visitors can explore numerous paths through woodlands, meadows, and pools. These are popular for walking, cycling, and trail running, allowing you to combine historical reflection with outdoor activity.
What is the difficulty level of walks around the memorial and in Apedale Community Country Park?
The park offers a range of paths, including family-friendly walks, suggesting that many routes are accessible and not overly strenuous. The highlight data categorizes the memorial itself as 'intermediate' for some activities, implying that while there are easy strolls, more challenging options might exist within the wider park for hikers and trail runners seeking varied terrain.
Is the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial and surrounding park dog-friendly?
Yes, the Apedale Community Country Park is known for having many dog-friendly routes. This makes it an excellent destination for visitors who wish to bring their canine companions along to enjoy the outdoor spaces and explore the memorial.
Are there any viewpoints or notable natural features near the memorial?
The memorial itself is considered a viewpoint. The surrounding Apedale Community Country Park, a 454-acre site, features a varied landscape of woodlands, meadows, and pools. While specific named natural features aren't highlighted, the redeveloped opencast mine offers diverse scenery for exploration.
What are the parking options for visitors to the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial?
There is parking available near the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial within Apedale Community Country Park, making it convenient for those arriving by car. It's advisable to check local signage for any potential fees or time limits.
How can I reach the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial using public transport?
While the park is bordered by communities like Silverdale, Chesterton, Knutton, and Cross Heath, specific public transport routes directly to the memorial are not detailed. Visitors would likely need to research local bus services to Newcastle-under-Lyme and then consider a taxi or a walk from the nearest stop to the park entrance.
Are there any entry fees or permits required to visit the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial or Apedale Community Country Park?
There is no information suggesting that entry fees or permits are required to access the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial or the general areas of Apedale Community Country Park. It is typically open to the public for free.
What other attractions are located near the Apedale Pit Wheel Memorial?
The memorial is conveniently located near the Apedale Heritage Centre, which offers immersive experiences including authentic underground mine tours and a museum. Additionally, the adjoining Moseley Railway Trust operates the Apedale Valley Light Railway, providing another engaging attraction for visitors.
What is the history behind the pit wheel itself?
The impressive pit wheel, measuring 30 feet by 19 feet and weighing 7 tonnes, originated from the Annesley Colliery in Nottinghamshire. It was acquired for £100 by ex-miner Keith Meeson, one of the founders of the Apedale Heritage Centre. Its transport to Apedale required three lorries and assistance from the Territorial Army, with a £15,000 grant from the Countryside Agency funding its restoration and placement in 2004.
Are there accommodation options, cafes, or pubs nearby?
The Apedale Community Country Park is bordered by several communities including Silverdale, Chesterton, Knutton, and Cross Heath. While specific establishments aren't listed, these areas would be the most likely places to find local pubs, cafes, and potentially accommodation options such as hotels or pubs with rooms near the park and memorial.