National Slate Museum Guide
Step Back in Time: Explore the World of Welsh Slate Guide
The National Slate Museum, located in Llanberis, offers a fascinating and immersive journey into the heart of the Welsh slate industry. Housed in the former workshops of the Dinorwic Quarry, the museum provides a vivid portrayal of the lives and work of the quarrymen and their families. Through preserved buildings, demonstrations, and exhibits, visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a working slate quarry. It's a powerful and moving tribute to a vital part of Welsh history. The museum is situated within the Victorian workshops that once served the massive Dinorwic Quarry. These workshops were essential for maintaining the quarry's machinery and equipment, and they provide a unique insight into the industrial processes of the time. The museum's collection includes a vast array of tools, machinery, and artifacts related to the slate industry, as well as personal stories and accounts from former quarry workers. The site itself is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, reflecting its historical significance. Visitors can explore the various workshops, including the blacksmith's forge, the sawmills, and the engine house. Live demonstrations showcase traditional slate-splitting techniques and the operation of the machinery. The museum also features exhibits on the social and cultural aspects of quarry life, including the chapels, schools, and communities that thrived around the quarries. While the museum doesn't have a specific culinary focus, the on-site cafe offers refreshments and light meals. Llanberis itself has several options for traditional Welsh food.
Transportation
Bus services operate to Llanberis from Bangor and Caernarfon. The National Slate Museum is located a short walk from the centre of Llanberis. Parking is available at the museum.