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Michell's Engine House

Michell's Engine House, Agar Road, Illogan highway, Redruth, Cornwall, TR15 3ED

  • Multiple dates available
  • In person
  • Pre-booking preferred

Built in the 19th century, this is home to the last 'whim engine' built in Cornwall.

Visit one of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site’s remarkable buildings for free over Heritage Open Days.
Michell’s Engine House was built when East Pool Mine reopened in pursuit of copper. As East Pool's workings became deeper and wider, more power was needed to haul out their ore. In 1887, a 30-inch beam winding engine, known as a whim, was installed. This engine was designed by Francis Michell of Redruth and made by Holman Brothers of Camborne. Named ‘Michell’s Whim’ after its designer, it operated fast at 17 strokes a minute.
Michell's Whim was the last engine of its kind to be made in Cornwall. It hauled ore for the next 34 years until a large underground rock movement blocked the shaft.

EXHIBITION - Sovay Berriman's Catchign Copper exhibition will be on display at the Engine House. Please see separate entry for details of special guided walks available with the artist that also include entry to this.

Timings & Tours

Monday 15 September:
1100-1500
Tuesday 16 September:
1100-1500
Wednesday 17 September:
1100-1500
Thursday 18 September:
1100-1500
Friday 19 September:
1100-1500

Location & directions

Michell's Engine House, Agar Road, Illogan highway, Redruth, Cornwall, TR15 3ED

Directions:
Parking to visit this site is in Morrison's carpark.
Contact on day:
Jade Bone

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking preferred
Booking conditions:
Booking is advised as capacity on site is limited.
Booking website:
https://www.nationaltrust-tickets.org.uk/category/32957
Booking opens:
25 Aug 2025 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

The bottom floor of this site is level but all other floors are via stairs only.

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:
15

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