Carnglaze Caverns
Explore Cornwall's only underground slate mine, featuring a crystal-clear lake and unique event spaces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Carnglaze Caverns
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Cornwall's only underground slate mine, featuring a crystal-clear lake and unique event spaces.
"Seriously, what is this place? This is heaven. +1"
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Essential for events and recommended during peak times to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces inside the caverns and trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Underground Lake
Main Cavern
A crystal-clear, serene underground lake that reflects the cavern's beauty. A truly magical sight.
Former Slate Mine
Throughout the Caverns
Explore the history of Cornwall's mining heritage in this unique man-made cavern.
Woodland Walks
Surrounding Grounds
Discover enchanting woodland trails, perfect for a peaceful stroll and spotting local wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Underground Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Essential for events and recommended during peak times to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces inside the caverns and trails.
🧥 Dress for Cool Temperatures
The caverns maintain a cool, damp environment year-round.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Gardens
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens and woodland walks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Essential for events and recommended during peak times to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces inside the caverns and trails.
🧥 Dress for Cool Temperatures
The caverns maintain a cool, damp environment year-round.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Gardens
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens and woodland walks.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Great for a coffee, crumpets, or a cream tea after exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Carnglaze Caverns for its unique underground lake and fascinating slate mine history, often describing it as a magical and well-presented attraction. The friendly staff and pleasant woodland walks are also frequently highlighted as positives, making it a great value day out for families and explorers alike.
"Our visit to Carnglaze Caverns was great. Even without a guided tour, we found plenty to explore and enjoy at our own pace. It doesn't take too long to get round.
The caverns are fascinating cool, vast, and beautifully lit to highlight the natural rock formations and the incredible man-made spaces carved out over the years. The Subterranean Lake was especially breathtaking, with its crystal-clear water. I loved seeing the LP cover shown where the photo was taken on the lake.
Above ground, the woodland walk is a lovely addition to the visit. The trail is well signposted and has quirky sculptures and little surprises along the way. It’s a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area after spending time underground.
Obviously there are a lot of steps and uneven ground. Wear good shoes.
Everything is well maintained, the staff were friendly and welcoming, and the whole experience felt relaxed and unhurried.
Nice little tea shop to relax after your visit."
Wendy Peskett
"What a fantastic day out. Prices were £36 for 2 adults and one child. But this was at the option you could come back anytime throughout the day. The cave was fantastic. All the lights to colour up the cave were amazing. My son loved the whole experience. Great for a rainy day as well"
Chloe Oxford
"A lovely place to visit on a hot day. All the staff were very friendly. The caverns were interesting but there wasn't a lot to see. The woodland walk was lovely.
All in all it was a mornings visit but for the price £20 for 1 adult and a 15yr old it was good value."
Donna Cousins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carnglaze Caverns is located near Liskeard, Cornwall, with the postcode PL14 6HQ.
Yes, there is ample parking available on-site.
Information on public transport options is limited, so driving is generally recommended for easier access.
The postcode for Carnglaze Caverns is PL14 6HQ.
The roads can be narrow and winding as you get closer, adding to the secluded feel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices typically range from £8 for adults, with concessions and family tickets available. Children under 3 are free.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for events, and can help secure your entry during busy periods.
Carnglaze Caverns is usually open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Concession rates are available for certain groups. It's always a good idea to inquire about any potential discounts when booking.
Some ticket options allow for re-entry on the same day, offering great value for a full day of exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the former slate mine, marvel at the underground lake, and enjoy the surrounding woodland walks. +1 There are also historical signs detailing the mining past.
Yes, it's a great experience for all ages, with children often enjoying the unique environment and any treasure hunts.
A typical visit can last a couple of hours, including exploring the caverns and a walk in the woods.
The caverns themselves involve uneven terrain. However, the woodland walks and cafe area may offer more accessibility. It's best to contact them directly for specific needs.
Photography is generally allowed, and the unique lighting and underground lake make for stunning shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site that serves coffee, crumpets, and cream teas. +1
The cafe offers light refreshments, including coffee and popular cream teas.
While there's a cafe, picnicking in the designated garden areas might be an option, but it's best to confirm their policy.
The nearest dining options would be in the nearby town of Liskeard.
The cafe can get busy, especially during peak visiting times.
📸 📸 Photography
The underground lake with its reflections and the illuminated cavern walls are prime spots. +2
It's generally best to avoid flash photography to protect the delicate environment and for better atmospheric shots.
A camera with good low-light performance and a wide-angle lens would be ideal for capturing the cavern's scale.
Drone usage is typically restricted in such natural and historical sites. It's advisable to check their specific regulations.
The area around the underground lake offers the most dramatic and photogenic views. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great option for a rainy day in Cornwall, providing an engaging indoor activity. The ticket prices are generally considered good value, especially with family packages available.
🚶♀️ Nature & Adventure Seekers
The surrounding woodland walks are perfect for extending your adventure, offering opportunities for hiking and connecting with nature.
🎶 Music & Event Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Slate Mine History
It's a fascinating journey back in time, offering a tangible connection to Cornwall's industrial heritage.The self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace, absorbing the atmosphere and the stories held within the rock. The sheer scale of the excavation, achieved with basic tools, is impressive. Visitors often remark on how well the historical relevance is presented, making the experience both educational and engaging.
Beyond the immediate cavern exploration, the surrounding woodlands offer a peaceful contrast. This area was also historically significant, and the trails provide a chance to connect with nature after delving into the earth's depths.
The Enchanting Underground Lake
The lake's presence adds an ethereal quality to the caverns, transforming a former industrial site into a place of natural wonder. The way the light plays on the water and the rock walls creates a unique visual experience that is highly photogenic.
Many visitors are captivated by its beauty, with some even likening the experience to finding a hidden paradise. While the lake is primarily for viewing, its visual impact is immense. It serves as a focal point, drawing visitors into the heart of the caverns and leaving a lasting impression of the site's hidden beauty. The contrast between the dark, excavated mine and the luminous, still water is striking.
Events and Performances
Visitors have described attending concerts here as a fantastic experience, highlighting the magical atmosphere created by the underground setting. These events often feature a range of musical genres, attracting a diverse audience. The combination of live music and the subterranean environment creates an intimate and memorable occasion. Attendees can enjoy the performance with the added ambiance of the cavern's natural features.
Beyond concerts, the caverns can also be booked for private events and celebrations, offering a truly distinctive location. The opportunity to host an event in such an unusual and captivating space makes Carnglaze Caverns a sought-after venue for those looking for something extraordinary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit