Explore Cornwall’s mining heritage with through these fascinating activities. Embark on a scenic hike along the Tin Coast, learn more about the geology of the area from an expert tour guide, or head down into the tunnels of Wheal Mexico Mine to experience what life was like for Cornish miners.
Mining trails
West Penwith
Enjoy an adventure-packed break exploring mining trails and discover the fascinating history of the local area.
- Activity level: Energetic
- Duration: 4-5 days
You can mix and match from the suggested activities to create a great day out during your stay. If you were to do all the activities on this itinerary, the estimated duration is given above.
Please note: You will need to contact the venue or experience provider directly to book.
Click on each individual experience and find out more about its accessibility and public transport connections, along with an eco tip.
Create your own inspiring itinerary
If you would like to build your own itinerary, head to the Experience page. You can add your favourite experiences to a bespoke itinerary, which can be downloaded or sent to your email address. Please note: This is for inspiration purposes only and does not create a booking. You will need to contact the venue or provider directly to book.
Things to do
The Underground Adventurer
Navigate a maze of tunnels, abseil through mine shafts and experience a whole lot of adrenaline. The ‘Underground Adventurer’ route from Cornwall Underground Adventures takes you through a 16th century mine, starting with some of the oldest parts and working towards the areas still in use a hundred years ago. Requires a good level of fitness. Find out more here.
Tin coast walk
Experience Cornish mining history in the real world, where engine houses stand tall against a backdrop of the vast Atlantic Ocean. The Tin Coast walk follows seven miles of rugged coastline in West Penwith, which has been designated a World Heritage Site. On the walk, you can explore three National Trust sites: Botallack, Cape Cornwall and Levant Mine. Find out more here.
Geology, Mining Archaeology & Antiquities
If the cliffs around West Cornwall could talk, imagine the stories they would tell. On a bespoke guided tour from West Cornwall Geology Tours, you’ll learn more about the geology of the area. This tour is suitable for curious explorers and seasoned geologists but does depend on the tides. You can find out more here.
Levant Mine and Beam Engine
You’ll find Levant Mine and Beam Engine on the cliffs of the Tin Coast, surrounded by spectacular sea views. The site is most famous for its original beam engine, which is the only beam engine in the world still operating on steam on its original site. Details of tours and further information about the site can be found on the National Trust website.
The mining experience
Get your hands dirty and delve into Cornwall’s tin and copper mining history. Geevor Tin Mine is the largest preserved mining site in the country. Nestled in the St Just mining district, Geevor was the last mine in the area to close its doors. It reopened to enable locals and tourists to experience what life was like for Cornish miners – you can even travel down into the tunnels of Wheal Mexico Mine. Plan your visit here.
Crowns Engine Houses
Botallack Mine and Count House is a National Trust site in West Penwith. It’s home to the Crowns Engine Houses, which are popular with photographers thanks to their dramatic position on the cliff edge. Take a moment to breathe in the spectacular scenery before enjoying cup of tea and slice of cake at the Count House Cafe.
Places to Eat
Homemade Cornish food
Refuel after a morning exploring Geevor Tin Mine with breakfast or lunch at the Count House Café. This family-run café enjoys stunning views of the Atlantic coast, and they are passionate about serving locally sourced Cornish ingredients. You’ll find sample menus and opening times on the café’s website.
Essential Information
Places to Stay
Retreat to a cosy self-catering cottage or book a stylish hotel in the heart of town. Discover the perfect seaside stay for your winter in Cornwall.
More inspiration?
Visit out of season and step into an adventure. Explore our entire collection of inspiring itineraries and plan a great day out.
Accessibility
Many of the activities in our itineraries are accessible. Click on each individual experience to find out more about its accessibility. We advise that you contact the venue or experience provider in advance to confirm. You can also find information about accessible venues through Access Cornwall.
Local knowledge
Enjoy updates from local experts and find information about upcoming events.
Getting around
Discover the many ways you can get out there and explore without relying on your car.
Positive impact
We’re hoping to make every stay as sustainable as possible. Find out more here.
Itinerary last updated on
This listing has been curated by the EXPERIENCE West Cornwall team and was correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We advise that you contact the venue or provider directly to confirm any seasonal opening details and to book the experience.
