Pictures of Rosedale

Before 1850, Rosedale Abbey existed was a small and remote rural farming community, with an ancient and long-abandoned Cistercian Priory - not an "Abbey" at all - and with a small rural population working on the land.

But then, suddenly, an iron mining bonanza came to this remote part of the North York Moors in 1857 and fortunes were quickly made - and lost - during the booms and busts that followed the speculators.

The iron mining community and the railway came into being in Rosedale during the 1850s.  At its height, over 5,000 workers were living in Rosedale and manning the mines and railway.

And Rosella Cottage in the heart of he village was constructed at this time.

Mining in Rosedale flourished for the next 70-years; but in 1929, it ended as quickly as it started.

The mine buildings, engine sheds, and other industrial remnants were demolished or fell into ruin.

The railway line was abandoned and the line and sleepers were taken up.

Many of the miners cottages and the larger houses of managerial staff were abandoned.

Most of the miners, railway workers and their families moved on in search of a living elsewhere.

But slowly, with the passing of time, Rosedale Abbey was "rediscovered" - not for its iron ore - but for its outstanding natural beauty and quality of life as a holiday haven.

Whilst many abandoned homes were demolished, others were taken on as holiday cottages, bringing new life back to this remote part of North Yorkshire.

And the abandoned mine workings, buildings, engine sheds, calcinating kilns and other industrial remnants now make a fascinating backdrop for hikers and cyclists enjoying a day out on the Moors.

And the long-abandoned railway line makes the whole valley accessable along a 10-mile flat and level path around the upper end of Rosedale.

Shown below are some of the local industrial archeology.

Top Bank Kilns near Rosedale Abbey.

Bank Top Cottages. Once a Row of 18, But Now Just 4 in Number.

Rosedale East Mines.