Sometime part of Great North Downs.

Wheal Peevor North Downs, an area with a rich mining history, was originally registered for tin mining at the end of the 17th century. Initially, copper was sought in the region, but the focus shifted to tin production in the early 18th century as mines deepened below the water table and entered the lucrative ‘tin zone’.

Wheal Peevor, situated within this area, played a significant role in both copper and tin mining. By December 1793, it became one of the earliest beneficiaries of the Great County Adit, a major mine drainage scheme in Cornwall, which significantly improved the efficiency and economics of mining operations.

Throughout the 19th century, Wheal Peevor experienced periods of activity and decline. It reopened in 1871/72 and enjoyed a productive period until its closure in 1915 due to various challenges, including shortages and rising costs. Several attempts were made to revive operations in the following decades, but none were successful. By 1967, significant mining activities ceased at Wheal Peevor.

Today, the site is marked by three prominent engine houses and other remnants of its mining past. In 2005, as part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site project, efforts were made to conserve these structures. However, despite conservation efforts, opportunities for mineral collecting on the site have diminished due to overgrowth and soil covering the dumps.

18th C. 1872-1889 1911-1918