The tinners and tin miners of Devon have left a lasting mark on the appearance of Dartmoor and on the cultural and historical development of its communities. The remains of their tinworks and mines are to be found all over the moor. Stream works for alluvial tin - Newleycombe Valley.

There is ample field evidence, often well preserved, of the mills where the ore was crushed and the smelting houses where the metallic tin was extracted. Mortar stone - stamping mill in Meavy Valley

In a smelting mill or blowing house the metallic tin was extracted from the ore in a furnace with a water powered forced air draught Molten tin from the furnace was cast into ingots in a stone mould. Mould stone - Gobbet Tin Mine, Swincombe Valley

Extensive records relating to the tin industry survive from the 12th century onwards.


The Dartmoor Tinworking Research Group, established in 1991, promotes research into all aspects of the Dartmoor tin industry and Dartmoor tinners

• History of tin industry from documentary, oral and any other sources
• Archaeological survey and excavation
• Cultural and scientific aspects of the tin industry
• Publication of the results of research
  

The Group organises site visits and discussions, provides training and publishes two newsletters a year

Read the detailed story of one mine in the DTRG publication "THE BRIMPTS TIN MINES Dartmeet"

64 A5 pages with plans - £4.95 or £5.20 by post from:

Dr Bob Bruce, 8 Abbotts Park, Cornwood, IVYBRIDGE, Devon PL21 9PP


Explore the mines with the new colour "BRIMPTS TIN MINES, Dartmeet: Trail Guide"

Excellent value at £1 from Brimpts Farm and Dartmoor National Park Information Centres