Secrets below the Edge revealed

It’s going to be busy at Alderley Edge this Easter as a new exhibition of photographs “What Lies Beneath” opens to give a glimpse of the world beneath our feet.

The  exhibition reveals the secret world of ancient copper mines hidden under the dramatic wooded sandstone escarpment. The mines date back an astonishing 4,000 years.

Christopher Widger, the National Trust’s Cheshire & Wirral Countryside Manager explained:

‘We know Alderley Edge  is a special place for visitors, many of whom come here for a walk and to admire the views.  We thought theywould like to discover more about the site and especially the parts they don’t normally see which lie under the Edge.  The photographs in the exhibition taken by Ed Coghlan are extraordinary and give a glimpse of a magical colourful world below”.

The copper mines are looked after by  Derbyshire Caving Club which holds a number of open days throughout the year.  For more information on these events or to book a trip underground please see  www.derbyscc.org.uk/

“Alderley Edge is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its important geology” says Christopher Widger..”We manage  the site through ongoing conservation work which is carried out by a small team of rangers and a number of volunteers. It’s great to be able to offer visitors something new to see, and we’re also delighted to be able to offer improved toilet facilities this season, which we hope will also add to our visitors’ enjoyment!”

The exhibition ‘What Lies Beneath’ is located adjacent to the Tea Room at Alderley Edge and will be open daily, 9.00 to 17.00.   For more information about Alderley Edge visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/alderley-edge-and-cheshire-countryside/