Slow Burn

When

Sat, 5 July 2025 - Sat, 13 September 2025.

Description

Langcliffe Quarry, near Settle and in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, is a site of national importance. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of lime production in Britain, showcasing how the industry evolved from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Designated as a Scheduled Monument, the quarry is protected to preserve its rich history for future generations.

For centuries, limestone was ‘burnt’ in simple field kilns throughout the Yorkshire Dales, producing lime to sweeten farmland and create mortar for building. However, as demand for lime increased in the 19th century, production methods became more industrialised. The advent of large-scale quarries and the introduction of industrial kilns transformed the industry. There are examples of three kiln types at Langcliffe Quarry: Draw, Hoffmann, and Spencer. The quarry’s location was ideal for lime production due to its abundance of limestone and proximity to the Settle-Carlisle Railway, making it easy to transport materials to and from site.

Local artists have drawn inspiration from the quarry’s unique and derelict landscape, immersing themselves in the site’s rich history and natural surroundings. Their diverse responses through painting, drawing, poetry, and photography capture the haunting beauty of Langcliffe Quarry and its historical significance. This exhibition is a celebration of the site’s industrial heritage and the creative interpretations it inspires.