Full Breakdown
Sinkhole Reveals 19th-Century Wine Cellar at Davyhulme Park Golf Club
3/4/2026, 2:10:04 AM
Discovery of the Wine Cellar
On March 2, 2023, a sinkhole opened up at the 13th hole of Davyhulme Park Golf Club in Greater Manchester, leading to the unexpected discovery of a 19th-century wine cellar. Deputy greenkeeper Steve Hopkins initially thought the sinkhole was a collapsed drain. However, upon excavation, he uncovered a brick chamber containing dozens of empty bottles of wine, champagne, and port, believed to date back to the era of Davyhulme Hall, which was demolished in 1888.
Historical Context
Davyhulme Hall was constructed in the 12th century and later inherited by Robert Henry Norreys, who is credited with establishing the golf club on the estate's grounds in 1844. The 13th hole, known as "the Cellars," hints at the historical significance of the area, suggesting that the cellar was not entirely forgotten over the years. The golf club is recognized as one of the oldest in England, with its origins tracing back to the 1860s.
Excavation and Findings
During the excavation, Hopkins discovered a brick doorway leading into the cellar, which featured an arched ceiling. He noted that the bottles were misshapen, indicating they were hand-blown rather than machine-made. Jane Wilson, the club's assistant secretary, confirmed that around 40 bottles were recovered, all of which were empty and lacked labels. The absence of contents has led to speculation that workers may have consumed the wine during the manor's demolition or that the cork seals failed over time, allowing the liquid to evaporate.
Official Statements & Responses
The golf club announced on social media that the area would remain temporarily closed while safety measures were implemented. They expressed interest in potentially turning the cellar into a feature of the course, stating, "We’d love to turn it into a feature — it’s such a fascinating find — but we need to carefully consider the safety of players." The club also mentioned that the bottles would be stored safely while they determine their next steps.
Criticism & Opposition
While many club members and local residents have shown enthusiasm for the discovery, some have raised concerns regarding safety and the feasibility of making the cellar accessible to the public. The club has yet to finalize its plans, and the decision will ultimately rest with the management.
What's Next
The golf club is currently deliberating on how to proceed with the cellar, considering both its historical significance and the safety of its members. There is considerable interest in potentially incorporating the cellar into the club's offerings, but any developments will require careful planning and consideration.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was walking back to the greenkeeping facilities and I noticed a small sinkhole on the 13th tee, which is not unusual, we just thought it was a collapsed drain,” — Steve Hopkins, Deputy Greenkeeper
- “Over 100 years old and filled with historic wine and port bottles — what an incredible piece of our club’s history!,” — Davyhulme Park Golf Club Social Media Post
