National Coal Mining Museum

There’s something a bit sad about the way that one of Yorkshire’s biggest industries until recent times is now little more than a heritage enterprise. But there’s no bringing it all back, and at least at the National Coal Mining Museum, around 18 miles from Leeds between Wakefield and Huddersfield, they tell it like it once was. This genuine former working mine offers a real insight into the mining industry through the ages, and there are hard-hat underground tours (led by former miners) plus all sorts of exhibitions, events and hands-on activities. And what’s more it’s free, save for the small charge you pay for an underground tour.