Windrush Stone Quarry

Windrush Quarry consists of several passageways that are usually about 2 by 1.5 metres in size. The stone was moved by carts underground presumably for both local use and for nearby towns and cities such as Oxford. The carts have left a series of well preserved ruts along the passages. Graffiti from the quarrymen dates from at least 1853 with the majority being between 1860 and 1909.

Windrush Stone Quarry has ancient roots, probably as far back as the 15th century when part of its output was used in St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. There are at least three underground systems, which have been researched and protected by the Gloucester Speleological Society.

The name of the quarry comes from the nearby village of Windrush, itself named after the local river, a tributary of the Thames and after which the famous HMT Empire Windrush was named.

Like many similar quarries, it is likely that most work took place in the winter when above-ground agricultural employment was less demanding. Underground extraction ceased in around 1900 although it is believed that the local town band practised in the outer portions of the quarry after this date. There are some fine arched supports and the passages have much archaeological evidence of the working period including wheel ruts, grafitti and mining artefacts.

The entrances to Windrush Stone Quarry are gated.

If you wish to visit Windrush Stone Quarry, please email meets.secretary@gloucester-speleo.org