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Old Gang Smelting Mill, Swaledale, Yorkshire Dales, UK

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The Old Gang Smelting Mill was a lead mining complex in Swaledale, North Yorkshire that was in use from the late 1700s until at least 1888. The mill is considered one of the best-preserved lead mining complexes in the Pennines. 

Construction and operation

• The mill was built in 1790 and used until 1899. 

• The mill was named after the nearby Old Gang Beck. 

• The mill complex includes the remains of two mills, one built in the late 1700s and the other in 1846. 

• The mill complex also includes a large peat store, dressing floor, and spoil heap. 

Decline in production 

• Production at the mill declined dramatically after 1885.

• The mill smelted in small way until at least October 1899, and possibly until 1903.

• By 1913, the mill had closed.

Visiting the site

• The Old Gang Smelt Mill is part of the Old Gang Miles without Stiles route. 

• The Old Gang Walk is a circular route that follows the River Swale and passes by the mill. 

• The Old Gang Beck Walk is another route that includes the mill.

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