Graham Hiley

Impressive visitor centre providing all the information you could ever need to know about the Manifold Trail and all of the surrounding area, including very helpful maps and historical insights covering the rich and interesting history of mining and light railway.
Well worth a visit.

Not certain as to what this seating sculpture on the TPT at Silkstone is supposed to represent.
Whilst the two figures at either end are carrying a shovel and spade which are similar to drift mining equipment used for coal extraction, the pillar in the middle creating two tunnel-like apertures could represent the Silkstone tunnels and the figures could easily be the engine driver and boiler stoker that had a tough job hauling coal up the Worsbrough hill (2 engines in front and 2 at the rear pushing).
Either way it is one of many historical sites along this part of the TPT with very interesting back stories

Tough ascent to get to the trig point on Black Hill, and not that easy descending either.
Pathways are mostly paved or gravel so this part of the TPT is OK, however, get beyond Black Hill and there are a significant amount of deep furrowed, muddy paths and it is very bleak.
Our journey on the TPT came to an abrupt stop when we reached a stream, which should have a bridge between the flagstones on either bank, as it was too deep to cross.

Walk the many pathways and take time to listen to the many birds singing their mating song.
Stop by the ponds and see a heron on its nest before moving on to see 'Flat Cap', testing for gas miner statue.
Very nice especially when that ball of light is burning brightly in the sky.

Such a lovely spot from the ashes, or rather waste mining, of Shireoaks pit.
Follow the fitness trail and get out doing some exercise and breathing some fresh air.