Cwmorthin Quarry & Lake - Image 1
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Cwmorthin Quarry and Lake

4.8
·44 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore a hauntingly beautiful abandoned slate quarry with a serene lake and dramatic mountain backdrop in Snowdonia.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Cwmorthin Quarry & Lake - Image 1

Cwmorthin Quarry and Lake

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a hauntingly beautiful abandoned slate quarry with a serene lake and dramatic mountain backdrop in Snowdonia.

4.8
(44 reviews)

"Stunning place. Really recommend to visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Uneven terrain and potential mud require good hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:

Download Offline Maps

Signal is unreliable. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abandoned Slate Buildings

Abandoned Slate Buildings

Throughout the quarry

Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the old slate quarry, a testament to a bygone industrial era.

Cwmorthin Lake

Cwmorthin Lake

Central to the quarry

A serene lake reflecting the rugged mountains, offering a tranquil contrast to the industrial remnants.

Hidden Waterfalls

Hidden Waterfalls

Various locations

Discover picturesque waterfalls cascading through the landscape, adding a touch of natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Weather in Snowdonia can change rapidly. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy hiking boots. Cell service is spotty, so download offline maps. Be prepared for uneven terrain and potential water crossings.

Uncover the History

Cwmorthin Quarry is a fascinating historical site with abandoned buildings and mine shafts. While signs are scarce, the landscape tells a story. Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into its mining past.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We're located right next to the beach so you can walk or drive on 😉🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 #beach #northwales #hiddengems #Porthmadog #fyp #lodge #glamping #behindthescenes #uktravel
@garreggochcaravanpark
35.1K likes • 1.4M views

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Uneven terrain and potential mud require good hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:

Download Offline Maps

Signal is unreliable. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. :iphone:

Our Sunday stroll 🏞️ Cwmorthin has a tranquil charm with it’s abandoned buildings and beautiful lake all sitting in a slate-lined mountain bowl. 📍Cwmorthin Quarry 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Where else would you recommend in Wales to explore with kids? #cwmorthinwaterfall #alltrails #hiddengemsuk #hiddenwales #explorewales #cwmorthinwaterfall #cwmorthinquarry #yourwales #yourhikes #youroutdooradventures #vanf...
onto_the_next_adventure
34 likes • 911 views
📌 𝗖𝗪𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡, 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗦🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿📍 📌 Walk through Cwmorthin, where rugged mountains, a still lake, and abandoned slate quarry ruins create a forgotten world. The trail winds past crumbling buildings, hidden mine shafts and beautiful waterfalls 📌 Cwmorthin Quarry in Wales is known as one of the most haunted slate quarries in the country. It’s often referred to as the “Slaughterhouse of the North” due to...
hiker.hq
0 likes • 729 views

Pack for All Weather

Snowdonia's weather is unpredictable; bring layers and waterproofs. :cloud_rain:

Respect the Ruins

Explore safely and responsibly. Avoid entering unstable structures. :warning:

𝐂𝐰𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬⛰️ #cwmorthinquarry #quarry #slatequarry #wales #northwales #hike #hiker #explore #adventure #lanscape #scenery #lake
j.a.d.e
0 likes • 474 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Uneven terrain and potential mud require good hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:

Download Offline Maps

Signal is unreliable. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. :iphone:

Pack for All Weather

Snowdonia's weather is unpredictable; bring layers and waterproofs. :cloud_rain:

Respect the Ruins

Explore safely and responsibly. Avoid entering unstable structures. :warning:

Consider a Guided Tour

Gain deeper historical insights and explore safely underground. :key:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(44 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Cwmorthin Quarry's breathtaking scenery and unique historical atmosphere, calling it a 'hidden gem' away from crowded tourist spots. The abandoned slate buildings and serene lake create a hauntingly beautiful landscape. Some wish for more historical signage to fully appreciate the site's past.

"Such a special place as I was lucky enough to visit the old mine with a good friend. I wanted to go back and explore the surface. Breathtaking views in the summer months. I will return as I want to see more 😍"

Lynn Mills (scouse_mouse)

"Ian, Ron and Jess were such great hosts. They made us feel safe and it was a great 6 hours under ground. Thanks to Ian who bought some lovely Candles, we had a candle lit break half way through which aided our journey through the cave. Such a fun experience and great knowledge from Ron regarding the mining system."

Sharna Henry

"Stunning place. Really recommend to visit."

Lance Cole

What People Like

Stunning scenery
Historical ruins
Tranquil lake

What People Dislike

Lack of historical signs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common access point is via the car park at Cwmorthin Quarry. From there, you can begin your exploration on foot. It's a popular spot for hikers and van campers looking for stunning views. InstagramReddit

Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Cwmorthin Quarry are limited. It's best reached by car. Consider local bus services to nearby towns like Blaenau Ffestiniog and then arranging onward travel or a taxi. TikTok

There is a car park available at Cwmorthin Quarry, which is a convenient starting point for exploring the area. It can get busy, especially during peak season. InstagramReddit

Some visitors have reported 'parking up' for the evening near Cwmorthin Quarry, suggesting it's a popular spot for wild camping or overnight stays in campervans. Always check local regulations and practice responsible camping. Instagram

While the area is popular for hiking, cycling routes may exist. However, the terrain can be challenging and uneven, so mountain biking experience is recommended. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets required to visit the surface of Cwmorthin Quarry. It's an open area for exploration. However, access to the old mine itself might require a key or a guided tour. Reddit

Cwmorthin Quarry is an outdoor natural attraction and does not have set opening hours. You can visit at any time, but daylight hours are recommended for safety and visibility. Instagram

No, there is no entrance fee to explore the surface of Cwmorthin Quarry. It's a freely accessible natural landscape and historical site. Reddit

Exploring the mine shafts can be dangerous. While some visitors mention getting a key for mine entrances, it's highly recommended to join a guided tour for safety and to learn about the mining history. Reddit

For general exploration of the quarry and its surface features, no booking is required. If you are interested in a guided tour of the underground mines, booking in advance is advisable. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore abandoned slate buildings, enjoy the serene lake, discover hidden waterfalls, and hike through a unique historical landscape. It's a photographer's and hiker's paradise. Instagram+2

Yes, Cwmorthin Quarry can be suitable for families, but with caution. The terrain is uneven, and there are mine shafts. Supervise children closely and stick to well-trodden paths. Instagram

Trails vary from easy walks around the lake to more challenging hikes up the surrounding hills. The terrain can be steep and rugged, offering a good workout. Instagram

Absolutely! The dramatic landscape, abandoned structures, and reflections in the lake make it a dream location for photographers. Golden hour is particularly stunning. Instagram+1

Yes, Cwmorthin Quarry is often referred to as one of the most haunted slate quarries in the country, adding an eerie allure to its exploration. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no food facilities directly at Cwmorthin Quarry. It's a remote natural site. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks or plan to eat in nearby towns like Blaenau Ffestiniog. Reddit

The nearest dining options are in Blaenau Ffestiniog, which offers various cafes and pubs. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery of the quarry. Reddit

Yes, Cwmorthin Quarry is a fantastic spot for a picnic. Find a scenic spot to enjoy your meal surrounded by the unique landscape. Remember to take all your litter with you. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with golden hour creating a magical atmosphere. Overcast days can also provide dramatic, moody shots. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and ruins. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. A tripod will help with low-light conditions. Instagram

The abandoned buildings, the lake with its reflections, and the cascading waterfalls are all prime photography locations. Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Instagram+1

Weather can be a challenge, so protecting your gear is important. The terrain can also be tricky, so be mindful of your footing while composing shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cwmorthin Quarry offers an adventurous outing for families, but requires careful supervision. The abandoned buildings and vast open spaces can spark imagination, and the lake and waterfalls provide natural points of interest. However, the terrain is uneven, and there are numerous mine shafts and steep drops, so keeping a close eye on children at all times is paramount. Stick to well-worn paths and consider shorter routes if your children are young. Bringing a picnic is a great idea, as there are no facilities on-site. Instagram

🚶 Hikers and Adventurers

For hikers, Cwmorthin Quarry is a must-visit. The area offers challenging terrain with steep ascents and descents, rewarding you with panoramic views of Snowdonia. You can extend your hike by connecting to other trails in the vicinity, exploring more of the slate landscape and surrounding mountains. Sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate gear are essential due to the rugged and unpredictable conditions. Instagram

📸 Photographers and Artists

Cwmorthin Quarry is a dream destination for photographers and artists seeking dramatic landscapes and unique industrial heritage. The interplay of light and shadow on the abandoned structures, the reflections in the lake, and the raw beauty of the slate mountains offer endless creative possibilities. Experiment with different times of day to capture the changing moods of the quarry, from misty mornings to golden hour sunsets. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Slate Quarry History

Cwmorthin Quarry is a significant historical site, once a thriving center for slate extraction. The remnants of its industrial past are scattered across the landscape, offering a tangible connection to the lives of the quarrymen. You'll find crumbling buildings, overgrown tracks, and the imposing scale of the quarry pits. While signage is minimal, the visual evidence speaks volumes about the harsh conditions and the sheer effort involved in extracting slate.

Many visitors are drawn to the 'haunted' reputation of the quarry, fueled by its abandoned nature and the stories that surround it. Some even mention the possibility of guided tours into the underground mine systems, providing a deeper, albeit potentially eerie, understanding of the quarry's operational history. It's a place where nature is slowly reclaiming the industrial scars, creating a unique and atmospheric environment.

For those interested in history, it's worth researching the Ffestiniog slate industry before your visit. Understanding the context of slate mining in North Wales will enrich your experience and allow you to appreciate the significance of the ruins you encounter at Cwmorthin. InstagramReddit

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

Cwmorthin Quarry is a haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape offers a variety of trails, from gentle strolls around the lake to more strenuous climbs up the surrounding hills. The terrain is rugged and can be steep in places, providing a good challenge for those seeking an active adventure. The combination of dramatic mountain scenery, the serene lake, and the intriguing quarry ruins makes for a visually rewarding hike.

Many visitors enjoy combining a walk around Cwmorthin with explorations of nearby waterfalls and reservoirs. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the quarry itself adds a unique historical dimension to any trek. Be prepared for varied ground conditions, including rocky paths and potentially boggy areas, especially after rain. Sturdy hiking boots are essential.

For those looking for a more immersive experience, some visitors have mentioned the possibility of wild camping or overnight van parking in the vicinity, allowing for extended exploration and enjoyment of the remote atmosphere. Always ensure you are aware of and adhere to local regulations regarding camping and access. InstagramReddit+1

Photography Opportunities

Cwmorthin Quarry is a photographer's paradise, offering a wealth of dramatic and atmospheric subjects. The juxtaposition of the rugged, natural landscape with the stark, abandoned slate buildings creates compelling visual narratives. The still waters of Cwmorthin Lake often provide stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and ruins, especially on calm days.

Key photographic highlights include the geometric patterns of the quarry pits, the textures of the weathered slate, and the ethereal quality of the abandoned structures. Waterfalls add dynamic elements to the scenery, particularly after rainfall. The changing light throughout the day can dramatically alter the mood of the landscape, with golden hour in the morning and evening casting a warm glow over the scene.

Visitors often recommend visiting during the 'shoulder seasons' or on weekdays to avoid crowds and capture more serene shots. However, even on busier days, the vastness of the quarry allows for finding unique perspectives. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including wide-angle lenses for landscapes and a tripod for low-light conditions or capturing the movement of water in the waterfalls. Instagram+1

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