Frizington

Frizington lies in west Cumbria, England, UK, near the Lake District National Park, about 5 miles east of Whitehaven, 38 miles southwest of Carlisle, and 44.5 miles north of Barrow-in-Furness. It’s part of a historic mining district, with nearby villages like Cleator Moor, Egremont, and Rowrah sharing a similar industrial past, making it a hub for mineral exploration.

This locality is renowned for its haematite deposits, particularly the unique 'kidney ore' (fibrous mammillated) and 'pencil ore' (conical fragments), ideal for collectors. Other minerals include baryte, calcite, dolomite, fluorite, aragonite, quartz, and traces of manganese oxides, galena, and copper sulphides, offering a diverse range for enthusiasts.

Frizington’s geology centers on Carboniferous limestones, where haematite forms large, irregular replacements or vein fillings, often linked to faults. Research suggests these deposits formed post-Triassic through convective leaching by hypersaline brines, possibly from Permo-Triassic or Lake District granite sources, creating a rich mineral environment.

Mining in Frizington dates to at least the 12th century, with a boom in the 19th century for haematite, transforming the village. Mines like Parkside and Mowbray were active, peaking late 19th century, but declined early 20th century, with Florence Mine closing in 2006. This history shaped the village’s growth and community.

The mining boom led to community development, with St Paul’s Church (1867-1868) and schools like Frizington Community Primary (1877) reflecting the needs of miners. Local history, documented in books like Frizington: Much More Than One Long Street (Books Cumbria), celebrates this heritage, fostering a sense of pride.

Cumbria’s temperate maritime climate, with mild summers, cool winters, and high rainfall, likely influenced mineral formation but isn’t directly linked to production. The wet conditions may have affected mining operations, requiring robust planning for enthusiasts visiting the area.