National Slate Museum
Situated in the Victorian workshops of the Dinorwig quarry, the National Slate Museum tells the story of life in Wales' slate communities.
Nestled amidst the mountains of Snowdonia, the museum paints a vivid picture of the backbreaking labor, craftsmanship, and community spirit that defined slate mining, a well-known aspect of Welsh history.
Story of slate
Discover the history of Welsh slate from it’s use in Roman forts, to the Industrial Revolution and beyond, with multi-media exhibits, tours and talks.
Frozen in time
Dinorwig Quarry closed in 1969. The remaining workshops and buildings are designed to look as though quarrymen and engineers have just put down their tools and left the courtyard for home. Visit the the Chief Engineer's House, furnished to reflect life in 1911, forges, iron and brass foundry and the huge waterwheel, the largest on the British mainland.
Demonstrations and talks
Get up close to quarry life with an array of walks, talks and demonstrations on offer. From slate-splitting demonstrations to the art of the blacksmith, the museum highlights the artistry and skill of generations of quarry workers.
Visitor information
Address
Padarn Country Park, Llanberis, Gwynedd, LL55 4TY
03001112333
Opening times
Open four days per week – every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday (10am – 4pm) – until further notice