Geevor Tin Mine
Geevor tin mine is a great place to explore near Lands End in Cornwall. It is an old 18th-century tin mine which is part of the Cornish Tin Mining UNESCO World Heritage site.
Things to do at the Geevor Tin Mine
The mine and its buildings are spread over a large area and you can explore above ground at your own pace. The Victory shaft is the most dominant part of the site with its black metal frame and huge wheel which would have taken miners down to the working part of the mine. The site extends beyond the buildings and if you want to really explore you can take a short walk along the coast path to the other now derelict areas of the mine.
The museum is interactive and has something suitable for most ages. It isn’t just about tin with information about all sorts of mining across Cornwall and beyond. There is a chance to pan for gold and other metals as well as explore the chemist’s laboratory and the way the miners lived in the nearby villages. There are small demonstrations and lots of things to do at each place. The staff are brilliant at explaining things and helping kids (and adults) to understand what they are seeing.
You can also explore the miners changing rooms with their lockers and showers still in place before heading underground into the mine. This is a guided tour and was the highlight of the day. Definitely worth doing if you can bear being underground. It takes you a short distance into the mine to really understand the working conditions in the 18th century.
Further Information
Is there food and drink available?
At the mine, there is a large café with the most amazing full-height windows with views over the sea. They serve breakfast until 11 am and then light lunches and cream teas for the rest of the day.
What are the main things to do?
A museum about mining for metal in Cornwall, demonstrations of equipment linked to the mine and mill, the miners’ changing rooms, gold panning and Wheal Mexico mine. There are toilets and a cafe.
What are the ticket prices?
There are two options for visiting Geevor – with and without going underground. If you want to go into Wheal Mexico mine then the price is £16.10 for adults and £9 for children over 4. If you want to explore the museums and stay above ground then the price is £12.95 for adults (but no price is given for children) There are also concession and family tickets available. Children under 4 are free.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
Is there parking?
There is free parking.
When are they open?
The Geevor Mine is open every day except Saturdays, with the exception of our Christmas closure. For up-to-date opening times and dates please follow this link.
Dog friendly?
Dogs are permitted. They are not permitted in the shop, cafe or underground.
Are they accessible?
Read a full review here. Written by Suzanne at Meandering Wild
