Heapstead Restoration: FAQs
Woodhorn Museum is currently undergoing essential restoration project to safeguard the historic Heapsteads, the towering structures that once powered coal extraction deep underground. Due to their deteriorating condition, restoration is necessary to protect our heapsteads (a scheduled monument) and ensure visitor safety.
Below you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about the project and what it means for your visit.
What is happening at Woodhorn Museum?
In November 2025 restoration work began on Woodhorn's iconic heapstead structures - the rare surviving headframes are a key part of the mechanism which brought coal from over 250 metres underground. These historic structures date back to the mine's operation period and represent crucial industrial heritage
Why are the heapsteads being restored?
Urgent restoration is needed as both heapsteads are currently in very poor condition and on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register. The deteriorating steel structures pose serious safety risks and without immediate action, these irreplaceable monuments to Britain's mining past face potential collapse, threatening both public safety and irreversible heritage loss.
What specific work will be done during the restoration?
The project involves comprehensive structural repairs to maintain the integrity of these historic mining structures. This includes addressing deteriorating steel sections, removing hazardous materials, and implementing preservation techniques to ensure the long-term stability of these industrial monuments.
How long will this take?
The project is expected to take around 42 weeks, with restoration work beginning in November 2025 and completion planned for September 2026. Timings may shift depending on weather conditions and the complexity of repairs, but we will keep visitors and the community updated throughout the project.
Will this impact my visit during the restoration?
Woodhorn Museum’s exhibitions, events and activities will remain open as normal throughout the project including Coal Town, our galleries and exhibitions, Café and shop, Pit Yard Play Area and most other outdoor areas such as the Wild Wood.
However, for safety reasons No.2 Heapstead building and No.2 Winding House will remain closed whilst restoration work is carried out. A new screen has been installed in the Jack Engine Room which features 3 short films previously shown in No.2 Winding House, telling the story of the colliery structures and the last Windermen who worked at Woodhorn.
Visitors may also notice some noise or activity on-site, particularly from January onwards, when extensive scaffolding and steelwork repair begins.
The areas immediately surrounding the Heapsteads will be fenced off for contractors access only, but signage explaining what is happening will be installed on site and we will regularly update communications across our online platforms to keep visitors informed on progress.
Will the site remain accessible?
The main accessible routes around the museum will remain open and alternative routes around the site will be clearly signposted if, where, and when needed temporarily. Our Visitor Experience Team will keep visitors informed on arrival if there are any changes to this.
How will safety be maintained during restoration?
The museum has implemented comprehensive safety measures in conjunction with our Contractors Compass Construction and Northumberland County Council (NCC).
Secure fenced construction zones with clear barriers, professional site management, regular safety inspections, clear signage and wayfinding are in place. Compass construction, NCC and North East Museums are working together to ensure all staff on site are trained and sufficient supervision of safe public areas is maintained.
How will this impact visitor experience after the restoration?
The restoration of the heapsteads will not only prevent the loss of a vital piece of the North East's industrial heritage but will also refresh the visitor experience around the colliery buildings at Woodhorn Museum to better illustrate the stories that they tell.
Visitors will once more be able to access the towering No. 1 Heapstead to see the shaft top landings and cages which once carried men and machinery underground and experience the huge winding wheel which once wound the cables up and down the shaft 24 hours a day.
Can schools or groups still visit?
Yes. Most of the site remains open and accessible, and schools and group visits can continue as normal. We will advise alternative tour routes if necessary, on booking.
How is this funded?
The restoration is being funded with almost £1 million of support from Historic England Heritage at Risk Fund, matched by Northumberland County Council. This combined investment allows urgent specialist repairs to protect the Heapsteads and the historic spaces beneath them.
How can people stay updated about the project's progress?
We look forward to sharing the exciting restoration journey as it progresses – including behind-the-scenes content, photos, and stories from the specialist team carrying out the restoration work.
Visitors can stay informed through Woodhorn’s social media pages, monthly newsletters and website. Any changes to visitor access or project milestones will be communicated as soon as possible.
For specific inquiries about the restoration project, please contact the museum at info@woodhornmuseum.org.uk
