Join local mining historian Simon Chapman for a guided heritage walk exploring the remains, landmarks and extraordinary industrial history of Eston Mines.

The walk follows a three-mile route from Eston High Street into the Eston Hills, visiting important sites associated with a mine that helped transform Teesside and fuel Britain’s Industrial Revolution.

About Eston Mines

Eston was the largest mine on the Cleveland Ironstone Seam, employing more than 1,600 workers at its peak.

During its 99-year lifespan, the miners of Eston extracted approximately 63 million tons of ironstone. Originally owned by Bolckow, Vaughan & Co., the mine was later acquired by Dorman Long and continued operating until its closure in 1949.

Although its underground workings are now silent, traces of Eston’s mining history remain across the hills. Former railway routes, mine workings and distinctive industrial structures still overlook the streets below.

The walk

Simon Chapman will lead the walk, supported by Land of Iron staff and volunteers.

Beginning in Eston High Street, the route follows the former incline before passing beneath the A174 towards the Trustee Drift site and the former explosives magazine.

The walk then continues steadily uphill towards Old Bank and New Bank. From there, the route follows the former railway track to Lazenby Fanhouse—also known locally as the S.S. Castle—before returning to Eston via New Bank and California.

Along the way, Simon will introduce the surviving buildings, structures and landscape features associated with Eston’s mining past—including the story behind the remarkable S.S. Castle.

The route is approximately three miles long and includes uphill sections and rough ground. It may be muddy following wet weather. The walk includes regular stops for historical talks and is expected to last approximately five hours.

Event details

Date: Saturday 12 September 2026
Time: 10am–approximately 3pm

Distance: Approximately three miles
Duration: Approximately five hours

Ticket Price: £7.50 per person, plus the usual online booking fee
Capacity: 20 people

Meeting point: Meet at the Eston Miners Hospital Sculpture, Rothwell Mews, Eston, Middlesbrough TS6 9JF.
The sculpture is on Eston High Street, in the wooded area opposite the Shell garage and diagonally across from the Miners’ Arms.

Parking: Visitors may find a place to park behind the Miners’ Arms and Eston Institute.

Walk leader: Simon Chapman

The finish time is approximate and may vary depending on the pace of the group and the time spent at different points along the route.

Meeting point and parking

Meet at the Eston Miners’ Hospital sculpture on Eston High Street, opposite the Shell garage and diagonally across from the Miners’ Arms.

Parking is available behind the Miners’ Arms and Eston Institute.

Please allow enough time to park and arrive at the meeting point before the walk begins at 10am.

Booking Your Ticket

Book your place through Ticket Tailor
Price: £7.50 per person, plus the usual online booking fee.
Advance booking is required, as places are limited to 20 participants.

What to bring

Please bring:

• sturdy walking footwear;

• a packed lunch;

• sufficient drinking water; and

• suitable clothing for the weather.

Parts of the route are rough underfoot and may be muddy if it has been raining.

Children and dogs

Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control throughout the walk.

Supporting Land of Iron

Land of Iron’s programme of events and activities is made possible thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.