A long-running strike at the National Coal Mining Museum has concluded after staff accepted an improved pay offer.
Unison announced that the decision ends a continuous walkout by more than 40 workers at the museum near Wakefield, which began on 20 August, 2025.
The union confirmed the enhanced pay deal will see wages increase by 10.5 per cent, raising the hourly pay for mine guides to £14.21.
Confirming the end of the strike, Unison’s Yorkshire and Humberside regional organiser Rianne Hooley said: “It’s fantastic news that these dedicated workers can return to what they love doing – telling the stories of coal mining and keeping the history alive for future generations.
“It’s just a shame this deal has taken so long to reach.”
The union and National Coal Mining Museum had been locked in pay rise negotiations for several months.
One offer in October 2025 saw a £1 per hour rise for skilled trades like fitters and electricians, and 5 per cent for other employees.
At the time, Unision said this was actually less beneficial than an earlier 80p-an-hour increase and soon rejected the pay offer.
