One of the oldest surviving heavy iron forges in the world, dating from the 17th century (probably built about 1639, certainly existing by 1641). Cannonballs were reputedly made here during the English Civil War. Originally a finery forge producing wrought iron from pig iron using water power from the River Don. In the 19th century, the forge became one of the preeminent railway axle producers in the world. It ceased production in 1929 and became an industrial museum in 1955. The site is a Scheduled Ancient Monument with three restored working waterwheels.
15 March 2026
If you have not visited Wortley Top Forge just down the road, it is one of the oldest surviving heavy iron forges in the world. Built around 1639, they made cannonballs here during the English Civil War. In the 1800s it became famous for producing railway axles. All three waterwheels have been restored to working order. A Scheduled Ancient Monument.
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