National Coal Mining Museum for England
Descend into history at the National Coal Mining Museum for England, exploring a real colliery and meeting pit ponies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
National Coal Mining Museum for England
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend into history at the National Coal Mining Museum for England, exploring a real colliery and meeting pit ponies.
"Absolutely brilliant. This is a great family attraction. My second visit after a good few years."
Wear Warm Layers
It's chilly 140m underground! Bring a jumper or jacket, even in summer. :cloud:
Book Underground Tour
Spaces fill fast! Book your spot online in advance to avoid missing out. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Underground Tour
Caphouse Colliery
Descend 140 meters underground for an authentic glimpse into a miner's life. An unforgettable experience!
Pit Pony Discovery Centre
Meet the gentle pit ponies, Eric and Ernie, and learn about their vital role in mining history. A hit with all ages!
Interactive Galleries
Explore fascinating exhibits detailing the history, technology, and human stories of coal mining in Britain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Underground Adventure
Explore the Full Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Warm Layers
It's chilly 140m underground! Bring a jumper or jacket, even in summer. :cloud:
Book Underground Tour
Spaces fill fast! Book your spot online in advance to avoid missing out. :ticket:
Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially underground. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Plenty of Time
There's so much to see! Plan for at least 4-5 hours to explore fully. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Warm Layers
It's chilly 140m underground! Bring a jumper or jacket, even in summer. :cloud:
Book Underground Tour
Spaces fill fast! Book your spot online in advance to avoid missing out. :ticket:
Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially underground. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Plenty of Time
There's so much to see! Plan for at least 4-5 hours to explore fully. :clock:
Check for Events
The museum hosts special events like lantern parades and celebrations. :confetti_ball:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the National Coal Mining Museum for England as a brilliant and educational day out, particularly highlighting the immersive underground tour and the charming pit ponies. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are frequently commended for bringing the history to life. However, some guests have noted issues with broken interactive exhibits, the condition of the outdoor play area, and particularly slow and expensive cafe service.
"A good day out for all the family, make sure you check out both ends of the site.
Lots of history and exhibitions which are all interesting.
The staff are really friendly and helpful, always willing to tell you stories of pit life and work.
However......few things that let it down:
1. Car park not the biggest when events are on.
2. Many of the hands on exhibits were either broken or not working... Disappointing for the kids.
3. Outdoor play area showing signs of age and worn or broken parts.
But the worst......was the café....very slow service, menu limited(if you find one) and very expensive and poorly presented. No price list in wall.
Coffee was cold and took an age to make.
Shame about the above points, as I think we would go more....but until it improves probably not."
Mark
"Absolutely brilliant. This is a great family attraction. My second visit after a good few years. We did the underground tour, with Gaz our guide. I have to give this man a massive shout out. On our tour we had two nervous little boys. Gaz was brilliant with them both and really brought them into the tour. A great sense of humour and a marvellous singing voice. On our way back to the surface he sang a very haunting song. His voice carried so well as we ascended. It gave me goosebumps and I admit, I filled up. While you are getting kitted up, have your photo done.
We spent five hours here and I know we didn't cover everything.
The train ride was great and the two guys on duty were lovely. Chatty and cheerful, with a great sense of humour.
Visit the cafe for a beverage and a bite to eat, you won't be disappointed.
The gift shop is well stocked and here you can collect your photos. Toilet facilities and parking onsite. We paid £7.50 parking and £7.50 each for the underground tour. They also give you a souvenir tally.
Lots to see and learn about. The mining history can be quite sad.
A fantastic day, well done to all the staff at Caphouse, we will be back 😀"
Lynn Mills (scouse_mouse)
"Power house and cafe was closed today. Would be good to have a couple of motorbike parking spaces out of the way. Rest of the museum was great. Staff very friendly and helpful. Tour guide Jack 😉 to take us down the mine was very informative and knowledgeable."
Iain Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. It's accessible by car via the M1 motorway (Junction 39) and has ample parking available, though it can get busy during events. Public transport options include local bus services. Some visitors have noted that dedicated motorbike parking could be improved.
Yes, there is parking available on-site. However, the car park can become quite full, especially when special events are taking place.
Local bus services operate to the vicinity of the museum. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
The museum strives to be accessible. While the underground tour has limitations due to its nature, other areas are accessible. One visitor mentioned that their disabled mother was treated with dignity and kindness, and transport was organised when needed.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official National Coal Mining Museum for England website before your visit. They often have special hours for events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While general admission might be free, the popular underground tour requires booking in advance due to limited spaces. It's highly recommended to book this experience to avoid disappointment.
General admission to the museum is often free, but there's a charge for the underground tour and parking. Parking was around £7.50 per car, and the underground tour was also £7.50 per person on a recent visit.
No, the underground tour is a separate paid experience. It's a highlight for many visitors and offers a unique perspective on mining life.
Information on discounts for specific groups (e.g., students, seniors) is usually available on the museum's official website. It's always worth checking for any current offers.
Absolutely! The museum has extensive galleries, exhibitions, and the pit pony centre, offering a full day of exploration even if you don't go underground.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take an underground tour, meet the pit ponies, explore interactive galleries, see historical machinery, and enjoy living history demonstrations.
The underground tour takes you 140 meters below ground into the Caphouse Colliery. Guides like Gaz are praised for their engaging stories, humour, and even singing, making the experience memorable and moving.
The museum aims to be engaging for all ages. While some visitors noted that a few hands-on exhibits were broken, there are generally interactive elements and an adventure playground.
The pit ponies, Eric and Ernie, are a major attraction. Visitors love meeting them and learning about their historical importance in the mines.
Yes, the museum is rich in history, showcasing the methods, tools, and community spirit of coal mining, particularly in Yorkshire's regions. Exhibitions cover the 1984/85 Miners' Strike and the broader impact of the industry.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe. However, one reviewer found the service very slow, the menu limited and expensive, and the presentation poor, with cold coffee. Another reviewer, however, stated they wouldn't be disappointed with a beverage and a bite to eat.
The cafe typically offers beverages and light meals. Menu variety and quality can be inconsistent based on visitor feedback.
While not explicitly mentioned, many family attractions offer picnic areas. It's advisable to check with the museum directly if you plan to bring your own food.
Bringing your own food is generally permitted at many attractions, but it's always best to confirm the museum's policy.
Information on specific dietary options is best obtained directly from the cafe staff or by checking the museum's website.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the museum for personal use. However, always be mindful of any signs or staff instructions, especially in sensitive exhibition areas.
Definitely! The underground tour offers unique, atmospheric shots. The pit ponies, historical machinery, and the overall industrial landscape provide plenty of visual interest.
Yes, you can take photos during the underground tour. Some visitors even have their photos taken professionally as a souvenir.
The entrance to the mine, the pit pony stables, the old shower rooms, and the various pieces of mining machinery are all great for photography.
While generally permitted, avoid flash photography in areas where it might disturb exhibits or other visitors. Always respect any 'no photography' signs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the adventure playground for some outdoor fun. While some interactive exhibits have been noted as needing repair,🧑🏫 School Groups & Educators
The interactive galleries are designed to teach about the science, technology, and social history of coal mining. The museum also hosts workshops, such as robotics and problem-solving sessions, demonstrating its commitment to STEM education. The staff are generally praised for being friendly and helpful, making it easier for educators to manage a group visit.❤️ History Buffs
+1 The preserved Caphouse Colliery itself is a living monument, offering a tangible connection to the past. The detailed displays on community life, wages, and the social impact of mining provide a comprehensive historical narrative.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Underground Experience
This isn't just a tour; it's an immersion into the harsh realities faced by miners. The atmosphere is palpable, with the cool, damp air and the echoes of history surrounding you. Guides like Gaz have been singled out for their exceptional storytelling, humor, and even their singing, which can be incredibly moving.Safety First: While the tour is designed to be safe and informative, it's essential to follow all guide instructions. The environment is authentic, so be prepared for uneven surfaces and low ceilings in some areas. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must, and wearing layers is highly recommended as the temperature remains constant and cool underground.
The Role of Pit Ponies
The museum emphasizes the bond between miners and their ponies, a relationship built on mutual reliance and often deep affection.A Living Connection to the Past: Seeing these animals up close provides a tangible connection to the human and animal effort that powered Britain's industrial past. The museum's dedication to caring for these ponies ensures their story continues to be told. It's a particularly engaging aspect for families, offering a softer, more accessible introduction to the mining world before or after the more intense underground tour.
Community and Commemoration
+1 Events such as lantern parades and festivals bring the local community together, often involving workshops where people create their own lanterns. These events foster a sense of shared history and collective memory, celebrating the resilience and spirit of mining communities.Celebrating Women in Mining: The museum also plays a role in highlighting diverse contributions, including those of women. Events like International Women's Day celebrations, featuring afternoon tea and inspirational speakers, showcase the broader impact and ongoing relevance of the mining heritage.
+1 These initiatives underscore the museum's commitment to telling a comprehensive and inclusive story of coal mining.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit