Hendre Quarry
Ceiriog Ucha, Wrexham, Wales, UK
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Hendre Quarry is located in Ceiriog Ucha, Wrexham, Wales, UK, within the scenic Ceiriog Valley, known for its natural beauty and historical significance.
It produces minerals like Brookite, Xenotime-(Y), Quartz, and Calcite, which are rare and appealing to collectors.
The quarry likely sits in a dolerite intrusion within Ordovician or Silurian sedimentary rocks, suggesting igneous activity influenced mineral formation.
Mining began in the 19th century, with historical activity noted around 1875, and the site may no longer be operational for mineral extraction, though a related company remains active.
The Ceiriog Valley has a rich mining history and cultural heritage, with landmarks like the West Arms Hotel and the Glyn Valley Tramway, and is popular for walking.
The area has a temperate maritime climate with frequent rainfall, supporting diverse ecology around the River Ceiriog.
Location and Geography
Hendre Quarry is nestled in Ceiriog Ucha, part of Wrexham County in north-east Wales, UK. The Ceiriog Valley, where the quarry is located, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and is a significant area for outdoor activities like walking, offering a tranquil escape with its lush hills and the meandering River Ceiriog.
Minerals and Geological Interest
The quarry is a hotspot for mineral enthusiasts, producing a variety of minerals including Brookite, a rare titanium dioxide with beautiful crystal structures, and Xenotime-(Y), a yttrium phosphate mineral valuable for its rare earth elements. Other minerals like Quartz and Calcite add to its appeal. Geologically, it seems likely that the quarry is in a dolerite intrusion, an igneous rock formed from cooled magma, within the surrounding Ordovician or Silurian sedimentary rocks, which may have facilitated the formation of these unique minerals.
Historical Context
Mining at Hendre Quarry dates back to at least the 19th century, with the building at the former Powder Works, constructed around 1875, used for processing granite. The Glyn Valley Tramway, extended in 1888, historically supported transportation. While the Hendre Quarry Company Limited remains active, research suggests the quarry may no longer be operational for mineral mining, possibly preserved for its historical and geological value.
Cultural and Ecological Notes
The Ceiriog Valley's culture is deeply tied to its mining past, with landmarks like the West Arms Hotel offering a glimpse into local life and the Glyn Valley Tramway adding historical charm. The area’s temperate maritime climate, with frequent rainfall, supports a rich ecology, particularly around the River Ceiriog, making it a haven for nature lovers and a draw for tourists seeking both history and natural beauty.