Beech caves are formed from Keuper Sandstone which was formed during the Triassic period 252-201mya. Sedimentary.

Caves were formed from quarrying activit. The “pillar and stall workings” method (dig in from the side, leave pillars to support the surface). This created the caves. No explosives. Used for centuries. Some wooden scaffolding is evident from holes in the stone.

31st August, 1633, a Roger Low was paid to quarry stone which was used to build Trentham Hall for Sir. Richard Leveson. -> the stone from Beech caves is very good. Using the highest quality local stone was common for the period. Continued to be used in the 1680s. No records of quarrying after this point.

Caves have been a popular destination for walkers and ramblers, religous talks and meetings have been held there too. Scout campovers.

Wow this article is a bit crap in terms of prose. May be AI generated?

In 1850 the land with the caves was owned by Thom Fitzherbert.

Appears as an “old quarry” in the 18850 O.S. map.

1924, gets called “Beech Caves”. In 1932 a Charles I silling was found in the caves, he reigned 1625-1649 so that lines up nicely.

During WW2, caves were declared out of bounds and used for something war-effort related. Trentham ballroom (now the garden centre) was used as a cheque clearing house by the Bank of England.

No official records exist stating what the caves were used for. Hypothesises include a gold store, an ordinance store or a decoy of one of the above. (Cheque clearing house next door… gold store makes sense).

1950s+, began to be used as a party spot unts unts (mods and rockers)

There were two cottages built nearby for the quarry. One built into the wrong. Both built from the stone; look very distinct. These were demolished due to ill-condition, and their stones re-used to build the current residence, by the residents.

Local bridge is built from red sandstone, and was local residents campaigned to have it listed and protected

1980s-2000s, caves used for raves B) jesus christ the government crackdown on raves were really draconian: police may: break up convoys of at least 6 vehicles. Order crowds of more than 10 to leave if they fear a rave will take place. Turn back anyone they suspect of going to a rave.

Of course there are also health and safety concerns nowadays and they want to seal the caves blah blah blah :V