Much like other reviewers I just visited this site to tick another one of my list, however I found it to be a highly rewarding trip and Zollverein is one of the finest industrial WHS I have visited.

When I first looked up the site I didn't realise the extent to which the Architecture of the site as an important part of the inscription. The fist complex was actually beautifully designed, a real functionalist masterpiece drawing on the influence of the Bauhaus movement. The modern additions to the site were well done, especially the bright orange escalator that led into Kohlenwasche in Schacht 12.

There were maps dotted around the complex, however many times I did end up walking down paths that lead nowhere or to some sort of derelict end. However this was a real highlight for me, seeing the decaying ruins of the industrial past being absorbed and subsumed by the local fauna was really interesting, I just wish I had taken a better camera with me.

After touring the first two complexes I moved on to the Kokerei. The massive decaying remains were actually quite beautiful. Unfortunately the Sonnerad (Ferris Wheel) was closed and the swimming pool was emptied of its water but it was still a great location to stop for a quick beer in the afternoon sun.

It was pretty easy to get to the complex with a tram (107) running directly there from Essen Hbf (Main Station)

This as one of the finest Industrial sites I have visited from the World Heritage list, and the well designed buildings and rotting industrial remains are actually quite beautiful, making this a rewarding site to visit in one of the industrial heartlands of western Europe.