Pleasley Pit Trust: 2026 updates

2026 has brought a series of changes at Pleasley Pit Trust, from improvements to the dog-friendly café and car park to new team leaders and a growing programme of school visits.

Improvements to The Dog Cafe

Work began in June to improve The Dog Cafe, the separate dog-friendly café area. The work included a new roof and flooring, with new tables specially built by museum volunteer Neil Anderson. Abbott Construction completed the building work, supported by a grant from Bolsover District Council.

New café team leaders

Anthony and Sharon took on café Team Leader roles in September. Sharon first joined Pleasley Pit as a volunteer, and the café continues to rely on volunteers alongside its staff team.

Welcoming school groups

Nine schools visited Pleasley Pit during 2026. School groups explore the site’s mining heritage and surrounding environment, helping pupils connect local history with the place around them.

More space in the car park

Work during the year increased the size of the car park to provide more space for visitors. New posts were also added around the site as part of ongoing improvements.

Café opening hours

The café is open Monday to Friday, 9:30am–2pm, with hot food served until 1:30pm. At weekends it is open 9:30am–4pm, with hot food until 2pm followed by coffee and cake specials. Hours may vary during events; call the café on 01623 573064 for current information.

These developments are part of the Trust’s ongoing work to welcome visitors and care for Pleasley Pit’s heritage. Thank you to the staff, volunteers, funders and visitors who support that work.