Sygun Copper Mine
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Sygun Copper Mine

4.2
·371 reviews·Beddgelert, United Kingdom

Explore a Victorian copper mine near Beddgelert with an audio tour detailing its history and miners' lives. Features steep steps and stunning views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
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Sygun Copper Mine

Sygun Copper Mine

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a Victorian copper mine near Beddgelert with an audio tour detailing its history and miners' lives. Features steep steps and stunning views.

4.2
(371 reviews)

"An educational and atmospheric journey into Victorian mining history with engaging audio tours and impressive views."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Hiking boots are highly recommended due to steep, potentially slippery steps.

⚠️ Mind the Steps!

Be aware of numerous steep and sometimes see-through steps. Not for those with vertigo.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Underground Labyrinth

The Underground Labyrinth

Inside the mine

Explore hand-dug tunnels and chambers, brought to life with audio animations detailing mining history.

Victorian Mining History

Victorian Mining History

Audio tour points

Learn about the lives of miners and the extraction of copper through engaging audio narratives.

Reddit
Stunning Valley Views

Stunning Valley Views

Mine entrance

Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Snowdonia landscape await.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for Steep Steps & Tight Spaces

Sygun Copper Mine involves numerous steep, sometimes see-through steps and narrow passages. It's not ideal for those with a fear of heights, claustrophobia, or mobility issues. Wear sturdy footwear like hiking boots for better grip. Reddit+1

Timing is Key for a Relaxed Visit

Visiting during off-peak times, like weekdays or outside of school holidays, can mean you have the mine almost to yourself, making for a more intimate and less rushed experience. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low
When
Off-peak season
Why
Quieter experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sygun copper mine. 🧡 #syguncoppermine #wales #weekendvibes
kinsellacakes
7 likes • 282 views

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Hiking boots are highly recommended due to steep, potentially slippery steps. Reddit+1

⚠️ Mind the Steps!

Be aware of numerous steep and sometimes see-through steps. Not for those with vertigo. Reddit

Wow the most amazing day at @syguncoppermine Certainly not to be missed if you’re visiting north wales. I thoroughly enjoyed it and what an incredible piece of history to witness. Fun fact - Bear Grylls was filmed here as part of Britains Biggest Adventure. Did you know - Many of the miners working at Sygun Copper Mine lived in the nearby village of Beddgelert. In the 19th century more than 7...
ladydonnapale
147 likes • 2.2K views
Today, we went deep down, exploring Sygun Copper Mine, then rewarded with breathing views! #northwales #coppermines #explorewales
sazzaw
10 likes • 212 views

🎧 Listen to the Audio

The audio tour brings the history of the mine and its workers to life. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

Try the delicious pasties and sausage rolls at a good value. Reddit

Sygun copper mine is a Victorian copper mine that was closed down in 1903 and was reopened to tourists in the 1980’s. It is steep and you can’t have a fear of heights or be claustrophobic. I went during an off peak time and myself and one other family were the only people in the mine and then it was just me. Creepy but fascinating. You climb up the mountain from the inside and then emerge from an ...
victoriatravels_
56 likes • 897 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Hiking boots are highly recommended due to steep, potentially slippery steps. Reddit+1

⚠️ Mind the Steps!

Be aware of numerous steep and sometimes see-through steps. Not for those with vertigo. Reddit

🎧 Listen to the Audio

The audio tour brings the history of the mine and its workers to life. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

Try the delicious pasties and sausage rolls at a good value. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery outside the mine is as impressive as the interior. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(371 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sygun Copper Mine offers an educational and atmospheric journey into Victorian mining history, with engaging audio tours and impressive views. While some find the admission price a bit high for the relatively short tour, the experience is generally well-regarded, especially for its historical insights and the friendly staff. Visitors should be prepared for steep steps and confined spaces.

"Good place to visit especially if you are looking for something on rainy days.
Nice walk (on your own) through the tunnels of this old copper mine. Approximately 6 Audio animations which are telling you a lot about the history of this mine and how working in this mine looked like. In addition some scenes recreated to get a better impression.
Nice coffee area including sandwiches and cake. Also good selection of things to buy with fair prices.
Excellent and very friendly staff.
Worth a visit if you are in Snowdonia area!"

Jan Whitehead

"Visited here recently on my solo holiday. No need to book and just turned up and got a ticket, staff friendly. The self guided tour isn’t the longest but it is interesting and has audio points dotted about that provides an insight into the mine and its previous workers. Beware that there are quite a number of very steep steps in the mine and could be a struggle for someone. The views as you come out of the mine are incredible and even the nearby lake walk is beautiful which I done after."

Lacy Wilson

"Sygun Copper mine is an educational experience, learning how the miners extracted copper and other minerals within the mine. Hiking boots are highly recommended, just like any other mine or cavern you may visit the view at the end is absolutely stunning. When wife took kids down to the play area, I stayed a few minutes to take some photos and videos and enjoyed the quietness. The cafe offers some really nice pasties. I tried the Lamb and mint one & the leek, onion, cheese and potato pasty. Very very good value at £3 each and they taste more than a premium pasty. Sausage rolls are £2.60, which my kids had. Staff are very friendly and helpful."

Meat Fly (Meat Fly)

What People Like

Fascinating history
Engaging audio tour
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Steep steps
Short tour duration
Price perception

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sygun Copper Mine is located near Beddgelert in Snowdonia, North Wales. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. The nearest train station is in Porthmadog, from where you can take a bus or taxi. Instagram

While accessible by bus routes serving Beddgelert, having a car offers more flexibility for reaching Sygun Copper Mine and exploring the wider Snowdonia area. Instagram

There is parking available at the mine. It's generally sufficient for visitors, especially if you arrive during off-peak times. Instagram

Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore the scenic routes around Beddgelert and Sygun Copper Mine. Ensure your bike is secured properly if you plan to visit the mine itself. Instagram

The mine is generally well signposted from the main roads leading to Beddgelert, making it relatively easy to find. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest it might be around £11 per person. Some visitors feel it's a bit steep for the duration. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing. Reddit

No, booking in advance is generally not required. You can usually just turn up and purchase tickets on arrival, especially during less busy periods. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Sygun Copper Mine website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening times. Instagram

The self-guided tour typically takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. There isn't a strict time limit imposed, but the experience is relatively short. Reddit

Information on specific discounts (e.g., for children, seniors, or groups) is not widely publicized. It's recommended to inquire directly with the mine if you are looking for potential savings. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's a self-guided audio tour through winding tunnels and chambers, featuring audio animations and recreated scenes that depict the history of copper mining and the lives of the miners. InstagramReddit

No, Sygun Copper Mine is not suitable for those with mobility issues. It involves many steep, and sometimes see-through, steps and narrow passages. Reddit+1

Yes, children can visit, and many find it an educational and exciting experience. However, parents should be mindful of the steep steps and confined spaces. InstagramReddit

Sturdy footwear like hiking boots is highly recommended due to the uneven and steep terrain inside the mine. Reddit+1

Yes, there is a gift shop offering a selection of items, with reviews noting fair prices. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There's a cafe offering light meals, including sandwiches, cakes, and particularly praised pasties (like lamb and mint, or leek and potato) and sausage rolls. Reddit+1

Reviews suggest the cafe offers good value for money, with pasties and sausage rolls being highlighted as tasty and reasonably priced. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume your own food in designated picnic areas if available, or outside the main cafe. The cafe is a good option for a convenient bite. Reddit

Specific vegetarian or vegan options are not detailed in reviews, but the cafe typically offers standard fare like sandwiches and cakes. It's advisable to inquire directly about dietary options. Reddit

The cafe's operating hours are likely aligned with the mine's opening hours. It's best to confirm with Sygun Copper Mine directly for their current cafe schedule. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside Sygun Copper Mine, but be mindful of other visitors and the potentially low light conditions. Some creators have shared their experiences and photos. Instagram+1

The winding tunnels, unique rock formations, and the dramatic views from the mine entrance offer excellent photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

No specific restrictions on standard camera equipment are mentioned. However, avoid using flash photography in a way that might disturb others or damage the environment. Instagram

Yes, video recording is also permitted. Many social media creators have shared video content from their visits, showcasing the atmosphere. Instagram+1

Inside the mine, expect low-light conditions with artificial lighting. This can create a dramatic atmosphere but may require a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod for sharper images. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sygun Copper Mine can be an exciting adventure for families, offering a unique glimpse into history. The audio animations and recreated scenes are designed to engage younger visitors. However, parents should be aware that the mine features numerous steep and sometimes see-through steps, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility concerns. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely in the narrow passages. InstagramReddit

The cafe also offers kid-friendly options like sausage rolls, making it a convenient stop for a snack. The surrounding area near Beddgelert also provides opportunities for gentle walks suitable for families, making it a well-rounded day out. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Adventurers

Solo travelers will find Sygun Copper Mine to be an accessible and interesting attraction. Visiting during off-peak times can mean having the entire mine to yourself, offering a truly immersive and personal experience. Instagram This can be a great opportunity for reflection and to fully absorb the historical narrative without distractions. Reddit

For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, the surrounding Snowdonia National Park offers ample opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural landscape. The mine itself provides a unique historical perspective that complements the outdoor adventures in the region. Instagram

💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors

While some reviews mention the admission price (£11) as being a bit steep for the duration, the cafe offers good value for money, particularly the pasties and sausage rolls. Reddit+1 Consider this when budgeting for your visit. The self-guided nature of the tour means you can go at your own pace, maximizing the experience for the cost. Reddit

To make the most of your budget, combine your visit to Sygun Copper Mine with free activities in the surrounding Snowdonia National Park, such as hiking and exploring the village of Beddgelert. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Sygun Copper Mine

Sygun Copper Mine is a Victorian-era mine that operated for a significant period before closing down in 1903. It was once a key source of minerals in Wales, with miners working tirelessly to extract copper and other valuable resources. The mine was later reopened to tourists in the 1980s, offering a glimpse into this industrial past. Instagram+1

Visitors can explore the hand-dug tunnels and chambers that were the workplace for generations of miners. The self-guided audio tour provides detailed insights into the extraction methods, the challenges faced by the workers, and the historical significance of the mine within the Welsh industrial landscape. Some recreations and audio animations are used to enhance the understanding of how life and work were within the mine. Reddit+1

This historical site offers a unique educational experience, allowing people to connect with the region's mining heritage. It's a testament to the hard labor and ingenuity of the Victorian era, preserved for modern visitors to discover. Instagram

Navigating the Mine: What to Expect

The experience at Sygun Copper Mine is characterized by its underground journey. Visitors embark on a self-guided tour through a network of tunnels and chambers. This involves navigating a significant number of steep steps, some of which are see-through, and narrow passageways. Reddit+1

It's crucial to be prepared for these physical demands. The terrain can be uneven, and the confined spaces might be challenging for individuals with a fear of heights or claustrophobia. Wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear, such as hiking boots, is strongly advised to ensure safety and stability. Reddit+1

Despite the physical challenges, the tour is designed to be informative and engaging, with audio points explaining the mining history. The journey culminates in impressive views from the mine's entrance, offering a rewarding contrast to the underground exploration. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Mine: The Surrounding Area

While Sygun Copper Mine is a primary attraction, its location near Beddgelert in the heart of Snowdonia National Park means there's much more to explore. The picturesque village of Beddgelert itself is worth a visit, known for its charming stone cottages and the legend of the loyal dog, Gelert. Instagram+1

Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous hiking trails in the vicinity. The Aberglaslyn Pass and the surrounding lakes offer beautiful walking routes with stunning natural scenery. These trails provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of North Wales. Instagram

For those interested in local history and culture, the area around Sygun Copper Mine is rich with heritage. Exploring these nearby attractions can easily turn a visit to the mine into a full day of discovery in one of the UK's most beautiful national parks. Instagram

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