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Jug Holes Derbyshire
Date(s): 12th December 2024 - Written by: Robert Stevenson
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'Twas midweek in Bonsall, the moor shrouded in mist, When four intrepid souls ventured out, none could resist. Olly, Karolina, Jenny, and I in stride, Through foggy Jugholes Woods, a true adventurer's pride.
Jug Holes Mine, a Derbyshire delight, To underground explorers, it’s quite the sight. From 17th-century lead veins deep in the earth, To 20th-century fluorspar, a mineral worth.
It gifts us with history, from old to new, Natural caves with calcite formations in view. Known as ‘The Bee Hives,’ these wonders amaze, A cross section of interests, through time’s long gaze.
The path through the woods, easy to trace, Turned to Blair Witch, a ghostly embrace. With nary a landmark to guide us, we trod, In circles like Pooh and Piglet hunting the Heffalump.
We sought the entrance, our path uncertain, Through muddy slopes, slick as a serpent. “Let me check,” I called, as I slipped and slid, Olly's quick rigging saved me from the skid.
A phreatic tube, Olly claimed the way, Through widened Victorian blasts, we did sway. Jenny spoke of spiders, large as a feast, But only tiny creatures greeted us, at least.
The entrance found, a slippery slope descent, Handline rigged, to the chambers we went. We toured the halls of nature and man, With pack walls, candle marks, and shafts so out of reach in places that surprised .
Traverses led over holes deep and wide, Hints of past miners, their secrets they hide
We stopped for Christmas cake, our spirits alight, Then b-lined for the barrel exit, into the night. A tube, not a barrel, yet fun nonetheless, Depending on who’s in front, and who’s behind, I confess.
Happily stuck behind Karolina's delight, While poor Jenny trailed Olly, quite the sight. In jovial company, through narrow we passed, An evening well spent, with memories to last.
Summer calls us back, for picnic and mirth. With nooks and crannies to further explore, Jug Holes Mine holds tales forevermore.
And thus, our shenanigans, like a Victorian rhyme, Echo in the chambers, timeless and prime.
Type of entry: Caving
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