Location of the month: Wheal Maid

Set deep within Cornwall’s world-famous mining district is the former mine and clay pit Wheal Maid. Active until the 1970s, when it was turned into a site for dumping waste from two other nearby mines, Wheal Maid is an incredible location, evocative of both a rugged post-industrial landscape as well as another world entirely.

Dubbed the ‘Cornish Mars’, Wheal Maid lies 1.5km east of the village of St Day in between the large towns of Redruth and Truro.

It consists of three large lagoons, set in a clay pit, where heavy metals and other materials have been disposed of. This has led to a discolouration of the water and staining of the pit banks creating an amazing array of distinct colours visible when the weather is dry, and when the lagoons recede.

The mine boasts views unadorned by modern fixtures, surrounded by Cornish heather and the ruins of previous smokestacks and engine houses, allowing productions to easily use Wheal Maid as a double for period pieces or science fiction. 

The site has a small free car park a short walk from its eastern side but can accommodate vehicles onto the site with prior arrangement.

To discuss how Wheal Maid could be a good fit for your production, contact the Screen Cornwall team for advice. 

Images courtesy of Jake Riding Photography