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Great Orme Mines

Llandudno, United Kingdom•4.7(1.6k)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore 4,000-year-old Bronze Age copper mines with guided underground tours through ancient tunnels and a fascinating visitor centre.

Great Orme Mines offers visitors a unique journey back in time to explore one of the world's largest prehistoric mines, dating back 4,000 years to the Bronze Age. Uncovered in 1987, this archaeological treasure reveals fascinating insights into the ancient civilisation of Britain, challenging historical understanding of pre-Roman society. The self-guided tour takes approximately 45 minutes and includes a visitor centre, a 5-minute introductory film, a 200-metre underground section spanning two levels, and a surface walk around the smelting shelter and opencast mine. The underground experience is truly immersive, with visitors descending via slopes and staircases (35 steps down and back up) through dim-lit tunnels with low ceilings in places. Hard hats are provided for safety, and the mine maintains temperatures between 5°C and 8°C year-round. Sensible footwear and warm clothing are essential. A gift shop completes the visitor experience. Great Orme Mines welcomes families with children of all ages and is dog-friendly throughout the site, including underground areas. While pushchairs and wheelchairs are not suitable for the underground tour, young children can be carried in front carriers. The venue features on-site car parking and offers special rates for families, with children under 4 admitted free. School and group visits are actively encouraged with tailored programmes available.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:30 – 16:30
Tuesday: 09:30 – 16:30
Wednesday: 09:30 – 16:30
Thursday: 09:30 – 16:30
Friday: 09:30 – 16:30
Saturday: 09:30 – 16:30
Sunday: 09:30 – 16:30

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.7(1.6k reviews)
L
Laurence Paynter

Laurence Paynter

a month ago

Wow very impressive. Definitely worth a visit, also worth it on a hot summer's day to cool down. The lady and gentleman on the ticket and shop/drink desk were very nice. The area has been well laid out with nice a nice bridge outside and nice steps throughout

P
Phil White

Phil White

a month ago

Amazing experience! What a spectacular place! If this was in Greece or Turkey it would be on the UNESCO list. A world class site. If you have any interest in prehistoric history this is an absolute must visit. Very friendly staff happy to discuss history with you, lovely coffee hut and gift shop.

K
Katy Louise

Katy Louise

a month ago

Such an interesting place to visit, the staff were so friendly and welcoming, the way the trail was laid out was very easy to follow and as we came on a weekday it was very quiet so we could take our time. It didn’t take too long to walk the entire thing but that doesn’t take away from how interesting and good of an experience we had. Would really recommend!!

A
adam goodier

adam goodier

3 months ago

A really well run attraction with lots of things to see and do. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable and the gift shop and 2nd hand bookshop were excellent. The mines themselves have some tight passages but even I (6'5" 160kg) managed to get through without much difficulty. All in all, well worth visiting.

C
Colin

Colin

5 months ago

The Great Orme Mines is decent if you're looking for something to do around North Wales. You put your hard hat on and descend down a narrow, winding tunnel, into one of the largest prehistoric copper mine ever discovered. The self‑guided route is brilliantly laid out, with clear information boards explaining how Bronze Age miners worked here. The visitor centre is a nice touch, with an introductory film, artefacts and models that bring the history and archaeology to life for both adults and kids. It’s an easy 45‑minute to one‑hour loop and slightly eerie, with friendly staff on hand to answer questions. If you’re anywhere near Llandudno or heading up the Great Orme, this is worth a stop.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Great Orme Mines

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Great Orme Mines

Is Great Orme Mines free to visit?

Great Orme Mines is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Great Orme Mines suitable for?

Great Orme Mines is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Great Orme Mines dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Great Orme Mines.

Is there parking at Great Orme Mines?

Yes, Great Orme Mines has on-site parking.

Is there food at Great Orme Mines?

Great Orme Mines doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Great Orme Mines pushchair-friendly?

Great Orme Mines isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Great Orme Mines?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Great Orme Mines.

How do I get to Great Orme Mines by public transport?

Great Orme Mines is well-served by public transport.
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