History
Groverake Mine was one of the last commercial fluorspar mines in the UK. It dates back to at least the 19th century and played a significant role in the region’s mining industry. The mine was primarily worked for lead in its early years, but fluorspar (used in steelmaking, chemicals, and optics) became the main product in the 20th century.
The mine changed hands multiple times and was operated by several companies, including Weardale Lead Company and British Steel. It remained active until its closure in 1999, marking the end of large-scale fluorspar mining in the area.
