Corris mine explorers and craft centre

Corris is a great choice when different people in the family want different things from the same day out.

You can head underground into a genuine abandoned slate mine, watch craftspeople at work, make something yourself, stop for food and even combine the visit with King Arthur’s Labyrinth or the Welsh Legends Maze.

Go Underground

The main Corris Mine Explorers trip takes you into the old Braich Goch slate mine, following routes once used by Victorian miners.

You are given a hard hat and hand torch, then follow your guide through dark tunnels and large underground chambers where slate was cut by hand and explosives.

The mine was left largely untouched when working stopped, so you can still see objects, tools and traces of the people who once spent their working lives underground.

See What the Miners Left Behind

Some of the most interesting things underground are the small details.

Guides point out old equipment and everyday objects abandoned by the miners, helping you imagine what working conditions were actually like.

Because the mine is dark, damp and naturally rough underfoot, it still has a strong sense of atmosphere.

Meet the Craftspeople

Back above ground, Corris Craft Centre has nine individual workshops where you can meet the people actually making the things on sale.

You might see jewellery, pottery, glass, candles, herbal products, furniture and other handmade work being created.

That makes browsing far more interesting than simply walking around another gift shop because you can often talk directly to the maker.

Make Something Yourself

The hands-on activities are one of the best reasons to spend longer here.

Depending on what is running, you can try activities such as pottery painting, candle dipping, herbal crafting, furniture making or painting gaming miniatures.

Some activities need to be booked ahead, especially during busy periods, so check before travelling if there is something particular you want to try.

Make a Full Day of It

Corris works especially well because several attractions share the same site.

King Arthur’s Labyrinth and the Welsh Legends Maze are also based here, so one person can explore the mine while younger children or other family members choose something completely different.

There is also a small children’s play area and local walks nearby if you want to add some fresh air to the day.

Stop at Corris Café

Corris Café serves hot and cold food, cakes and drinks, with vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options available.

There is also a Welsh Deli if you fancy taking local produce away with you.

This is one attraction where I would plan to eat on site rather than automatically leaving to look for somewhere else.

A Few Useful Tips

Corris Mine Explorers starts from Corris Craft Centre on the A487 between Machynlleth and Dolgellau. The postcode is SY20 9RF.

The standard underground exploration lasts around an hour and a half and involves roughly half a mile of walking. The minimum age is eight.

The mine stays at around 8°C throughout the year, so wear warm clothing even on a hot summer day. The floor is rough and can be wet, and wellies may be needed after heavy rain. The attraction can provide wellies if necessary.

Advance booking is recommended for the mine because places are limited and online booking usually gives the best availability.

There is plenty of free parking at the Craft Centre. Regular buses also stop close to the entrance, and Cycle Route 8 passes nearby.

The Craft Centre itself is wheelchair accessible, with level paved routes between the workshops, accessible toilets and ramped access to the café. The underground mine exploration is much less accessible because of the uneven historic workings.

Dogs on short leads are welcome around most of the Craft Centre and in the café, but they cannot go underground into the mine.