Calling all Rock Hounds!

Nenthead, a small village located in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in Cumbria, UK, is known for its rich history of mining and mineral extraction. The area has been mined for lead, zinc, and other minerals for centuries, and today, Nenthead is a popular destination for those interested in mining and geology.

One of the most well-known minerals found in Nenthead is lead. Lead mining has been an important industry in the area for centuries, and the remains of old lead mines can still be seen throughout the village. The lead mines in Nenthead were among the most productive in the country, and the area was once a major center for lead production. Today, the village is home to the Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre, where visitors can learn about the history of lead mining in the area and see the remains of the old mines.

Another important mineral found in Nenthead is zinc. The area was also a major center for zinc mining, and the remains of old zinc mines can also be seen throughout the village. Zinc mining in Nenthead was primarily focused on the extraction of sphalerite, a zinc sulfide mineral, which was used in the production of brass and other alloys. The nearby village of Alston was also a center of zinc mining, and visitors can explore the remains of the old mines and learn about the history of zinc mining in the area.

In addition to lead and zinc, other minerals found in Nenthead include silver, copper, and fluorspar. The area was also a major center for the production of barytes, a mineral used in the production of paint and other industrial products. Visitors can also explore the remains of old mines and learn about the history of mining in the area.

The North Pennines is also known for its rich geology, and the area is a popular destination for geologists and rock hounds. The area is home to a wide range of rock types, including limestone, sandstone, and shale, and the region's many quarries and mines provide opportunities to see and collect specimens of these rocks.

Cranmore House and Camellia Cottage are perfect bases to come explore the geological finds in the mines, we are just a short walk to the entrance of Nenthead Mines.