Scout Stone Mine
The history of this sandstone mine in Rossendale is somewhat of a mystery with very little information about it being available. What is known is that it would have been mined for what is known as Haslingden flag, a type of stone only found in Rossendale with a hardness and silica content similar to granite. This stone was perfect for building and was even used as paving in parts of London including Trafalgar Square. Sometime in 1938 the mine galleries at the disused Scout Mine were prepared to serve as air raid shelters in case of Second World War air attack. It was reported that the lofty galleries widen at intervals into extensive chambers and are large enough to accommodate scores of people if necessary. The mine was made ready with electric lights and an air lock in case of a gas attack. The roof was supported by large wooden beams, quite a few of them from demolition of mills and other large buildings. I have heard many horror stories over the years as to the condition of this place with many people advising to avoid at all costs but it is actually in fairly good shape for the most part, there is a couple of sketchy areas that would probably fall if you sneezed too hard but on the whole i would say its no worse than nearby Pinners Mine. Inside the main features would be the entrance areas ranging from a rabbit hole type entrance to square openings transformed in to a water feature in someones garden.