Rainy Day Activities
Sygun Copper Mine, Gwynedd
Opening times: Daily 09:30-17:00 (summer), 10:00-16:00 (winter)
Prices: Adults £8.95, Children £6.95 Under 3s Free
Billed as an “exciting underground adventure”, the Sygun Copper Mine is an award-winning family attraction in Beddgelert.
The mine ceased operation in 1903 and was abandoned but was later turned into a tourist attraction during the 1980s. Here you’ll learn all about the working lives of the Victorian miners, which can be rather eye-opening.
The tour through the mines is self-guided and you’ll experience the old workings through winding tunnels and large colourful chambers. Over three levels you’ll discover interactive attractions as well as stalactites, stalagmites and copper ore veins which contain traces of gold, silver and other precious metals. The audio-visual presentation will allow you to discover all the sights and sounds of the mine so you can see just what it was like before it was abandoned.
There’s also a museum and children’s playground and you can even pan for gold!
The mine has also found a little bit of fame recently when it was used for filming an episode of ‘Britain’s Biggest Adventure’ with Bear Grylls.
It can get quite cold and slippy in the mine, so be sure to wrap up warm and wear sensible footwear!
Banner Image Source: CC-by-SA 2.0 by Christine Matthews.
Image Source: CC-by-SA 2.0 by George Tod.
Location
Located in the Snowdonia National Park on the A498, close to Beddgelert. Follow the brown signs!
Join the Conversation
Somewhere you've never been? What is Nearby?
Caernarfon
Caernarfon is known for one thing more than anything else: its mighty castle. This immense fortress dates back to the end of the 13th century – King Edward I of England had begun his Welsh conquest, taking the town of Caernarfon in 1283. The pre-existing motte and bailey structure was demolished under his instruction, and in its place began work on the impressive stone structure we know today.
Caernarfon Castle
Probably the most famous of all the many castles in Wales, and for good reason – its sheer scale dwarfs the others, and the town walls are still remarkably intact. Tourists can walk along a small part of the walls, which offers some fantastic views over the town. Also houses the museum of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers.
Piggery Pottery, near Llanberis
If you’ve got any creatives in the family, then Piggery Pottery might be just up your street. Situated near Llanberis, Piggery Pottery is a large studio where all manner of personalised gifts are made, and if you’re feeling creative you can have a go at creating your own too.
Small Cottages
When you only need space for 3 people or less then these cottages will suit you. We have a range of such properties across North Wales.
Remote Cottages
Enjoy peace, quiet and privacy in one of our remote properties. Surround yourself with nature and little else.
Cottages around Caernarfon
Base yourself in the Caernarfon area to explore this historic castle town and the Snowdonia area. The Welsh Highland Railway starts from Caernarfon to Porthmadog, a great way to see the countryside. The Llyn Peninsula is also easily accessible. Find a your holiday cottage here.