Great Orme Mines: A Journey Through 4,000 Years of Ancient Mining
Explore the world’s largest prehistoric copper mine and step back 4,000 years into Bronze Age mining history at Great Orme Mines, Llandudno.
Great Orme Mines in Llandudno is the world's largest prehistoric copper mine, dating back 4,000 years to the Bronze Age. Visitors explore ancient underground tunnels, an opencast mine, and a smelting shelter, gaining insight into the lives and technologies of early metalworkers. The site also features a visitor centre with exhibitions, a gift shop, and panoramic views from a 19th-century mine shaft. Open daily from mid-March to October, it offers a unique archaeological and historical experience.
A brief summary to Great Orme Mines
- Llandudno, LL30 2XG, GB
- +441492870447
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear and bring a jacket as underground tunnels can be cool and uneven underfoot.
- Allow around 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the underground tunnels, visitor centre, and outdoor quarry.
- Combine your visit with a ride on the Great Orme Tramway for scenic views and convenient access.
- Purchase tickets on arrival; no advance booking is required but arrive early during peak season.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Great Orme Mines typically takes 10 to 20 minutes from central Llandudno. There is dedicated parking onsite; however, the access road is narrow and can be busy during peak season. Parking fees may apply, usually around £3-£5. SatNav users should avoid St Beuno's Road to prevent misdirection.
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Public Transport
Take the Great Orme Tramway from Victoria Station in Llandudno to the Halfway Station, then enjoy a five-minute walk to the mines. The tram operates seasonally with tickets around £6-£8 one way. Alternatively, the Alpine Great Orme Explorer bus stops directly outside the mines, with discounted entry for bus passengers.
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Walking
From Llandudno town centre, walking to the mines takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes uphill over uneven terrain. This route is suitable for fit walkers and offers scenic views but is not recommended for those with mobility issues.
Great Orme Mines location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Great Orme Mines
Unveiling the World’s Oldest Metal Mine
Great Orme Mines, located in Llandudno, Wales, is a remarkable archaeological site and the oldest metal mine open to the public anywhere in the world. Discovered in 1987, the mines date back approximately 4,000 years to the Bronze Age, revealing a sophisticated ancient society skilled in copper extraction and metalworking long before the Roman era. Over decades, archaeologists, mining engineers, and cavers have gradually uncovered an extensive network of underground passageways, making it the largest prehistoric mine discovered globally.Exploring the Ancient Underground Labyrinth
Visitors descend into the mine to explore around 200 metres of ancient tunnels carved out by Bronze Age miners. The accessible levels reach about 18 metres underground, with interpretive boards detailing the mining techniques and working conditions of the time. The self-guided tour includes donning a hard hat and walking through dimly lit caverns, offering a tangible connection to the miners’ challenging environment. The experience is immersive, educational, and suitable for all ages.Above Ground Discoveries and Historical Layers
After exploring underground, visitors can walk the open-air opencast mine site, which showcases the scale of prehistoric mining operations. Nearby, the Smelting Shelter features a video demonstration illustrating how ancient people transformed copper ore into usable metal. Additionally, a viewing platform overlooks a 470-foot 19th-century mine shaft, linking the site’s Bronze Age origins to later industrial mining history and providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and ongoing excavations.Visitor Facilities and Educational Resources
The Great Orme Mines Visitor Centre serves as the starting point, offering exhibitions with ancient artefacts and displays that contextualize the site’s history. An introductory film explains the mine’s discovery and significance. Onsite amenities include a gift shop selling fossils, crystals, jewellery, and books, as well as a secondhand bookshop. Facilities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and seating enhance the visitor experience, making it a comfortable and engaging destination.Seasonal Access and Practical Details
The mines operate seasonally from mid-March to the end of October, open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with last admission typically at 4:00 PM. Tickets are purchased on arrival, with pricing options for adults, children, and families. The site is accessible by car, with parking available, and by public transport including the Great Orme Tramway and local bus services. Assistance dogs are permitted, and facilities accommodate disabled visitors.The Enduring Legacy of Great Orme Mines
Great Orme Mines stand as a unique testament to prehistoric ingenuity and community organization. The site continues to be actively studied and preserved, offering visitors a rare glimpse into ancient mining technology and the lives of Bronze Age miners. Its combination of underground adventure, educational exhibits, and scenic views makes it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts, families, and cultural explorers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hafod
0.8 km
Explore Hafod in Llandudno, a historic Welsh estate blending picturesque landscapes with rich 18th-century heritage and tranquil coastal charm.
Pen-y-Dinas Hillfort
0.8 km
Explore Pen-y-Dinas Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age fortress on the Great Orme offering rich history and breathtaking coastal panoramas.
Llandudno Cenotaph
1.2 km
A dignified obelisk on Llandudno’s Promenade honoring local heroes from world conflicts with serene sea views.
Historical Wales
1.6 km
Discover the essence of Welsh culture through unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Historical Wales in Llandudno.
Llandudno Bandstand
1.6 km
Historic open-air bandstand on Llandudno’s Promenade, blending seaside charm with a century of musical heritage.
Statue of Llywelyn the Great
5.6 km
A bronze tribute in Conwy honoring Llywelyn the Great, the 13th-century Welsh prince who shaped a nation and united Wales.
Conwy Town Walls
5.7 km
Walk the majestic medieval Conwy Town Walls for stunning views and a journey through Welsh history within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Welsh Mountain Zoo
7.7 km
Explore the Welsh Mountain Zoo: a family-friendly haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering unique animal encounters and stunning natural beauty.
National Trust - Bodnant Garden
11.2 km
Discover the enchanting Bodnant Garden in Wales, a botanical haven with stunning landscapes and vibrant floral displays throughout the seasons.
Trwyn Du Lighthouse
13.0 km
Explore the stunning Trwyn Du Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into Wales' maritime heritage.
Trwyn Penmon Point
13.1 km
Discover the breathtaking coastal views and historical charm of Trwyn Penmon Point, a must-visit scenic destination on Anglesey's stunning coastline.
Mynydd Marian Local Nature Reserve
13.2 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Mynydd Marian Local Nature Reserve, a true gem in North Wales.
Zip World Conwy
15.6 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining and adventure sports at Zip World Conwy, where stunning scenery meets exhilarating fun in the heart of Wales.
Castell Aberlleiniog
15.8 km
Explore Castell Aberlleiniog, a historic castle ruin on Anglesey offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval Welsh history.
Cadair Ifan Goch
16.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cadair Ifan Goch, a stunning landmark in Wales, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Water pump
0.2 km
Explore the historical Great Orme Water Pump in Llandudno, a Victorian engineering marvel offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
Great Orme Tramway - Halfway Station
0.2 km
Experience Britain’s only cable-hauled tramway on public roads, climbing through scenic Great Orme with historic charm and breathtaking views.
Y Gogarth Great Orme Country Park
0.3 km
Explore ancient mines, wild goats, and breathtaking views atop Llandudno’s iconic Great Orme limestone headland.
Historic information
0.4 km
Breathtaking panoramic views, rich history, and family-friendly attractions atop Great Orme Head in Llandudno.
St Tudno's Church Viewpoint
0.5 km
Historic St Tudno’s Church on Great Orme offers ancient charm, spiritual calm, and sweeping coastal views above Llandudno.
Ogof Deuben
0.5 km
Explore Ogof Deuben, a captivating natural cave on Great Orme, where geology and ancient heritage meet amid stunning coastal landscapes.
Summit Cable Car Station
0.5 km
Experience Britain’s longest cable car ride to the Great Orme summit with stunning panoramic views and historic charm in Llandudno.
Great Orme Viewing Telescope
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of North Wales’ coastline and mountains from the iconic Great Orme Viewing Telescope at Llandudno’s summit.
Great Orme Summit Complex
0.5 km
Breathtaking summit views, family fun, and historic charm atop Llandudno’s Great Orme.
Dum and Dee
0.8 km
Discover the playful Dum and Dee sculptures nestled in Llandudno’s tranquil Haulfre Gardens, blending literary charm with natural beauty.
Haulfre Gardens
0.8 km
A peaceful hillside garden above Llandudno with sweeping coastal views and a beloved tea room at its heart.
St. Tudno's Church
0.8 km
Historic St. Tudno's Church on Great Orme: A serene medieval sanctuary with stunning coastal views and rich spiritual heritage.
Llandudno Footpath 23 (Public Right of Way)
0.8 km
A peaceful coastal footpath in Llandudno offering scenic sea views and access to local heritage along a cherished public right of way.
Tudno's Cradle
0.8 km
Explore the historical charm of Tudno's Cradle in Llandudno, where culture and scenic beauty intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Llandudno tramway
0.8 km
Experience a historic cable-hauled tramway journey to the breathtaking summit of Great Orme, with stunning views and rich heritage in Llandudno.
Essential places to dine
The Lindens Restaurant
0.9 km
Cozy British dining in Llandudno’s heart, serving classic local dishes with warm hospitality every day from morning till evening.
Watkins & Co
1.0 km
Elegant British dining with creative flair in the heart of Llandudno’s boutique Empire Hotel.
The Seahorse Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cozy, elegant bistro setting at The Seahorse, Llandudno’s celebrated dining gem.
The Mediterranean Restaurant Llandudno
1.0 km
A stylish and welcoming spot in Llandudno serving fresh, authentic Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired dishes with a diverse menu and cozy atmosphere.
The Next Door Restaurant
1.0 km
Innovative British cuisine in a cozy boutique hotel setting, celebrated for fresh local ingredients and creative small plates in Llandudno.
The Queen Victoria Bar and Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience traditional British pub culture at The Queen Victoria Bar and Restaurant in Llandudno – where great food meets local charm.
Snooze Wine Bar And Restaurant
1.1 km
A vibrant boutique wine bar and restaurant in Llandudno, blending tapas delights with expertly crafted wines and cocktails in a stylish setting.
Home Cookin'
1.1 km
Savor hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Llandudno at Home Cookin', where comfort meets quality.
La Taverna
1.1 km
Cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Llandudno serving authentic dishes with warm hospitality in a charming, traditional setting.
LC Drink & Dine
1.1 km
Lively gastropub in Llandudno serving hearty British classics, fresh seafood, and a celebrated Sunday carvery in a warm, welcoming setting.
Johnny Dough's Wood-Fired Pizza
1.1 km
Savor expertly crafted wood-fired pizzas with vegan and gluten-free options in the heart of lively Llandudno’s Mostyn Street.
Take A Break Cafe
1.1 km
Cozy and friendly breakfast cafe in Llandudno serving traditional English fare in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Osborne's Cafe Grill
1.1 km
An elegant, intimate dinner spot in Llandudno’s Osborne House Hotel, serving modern British and European dishes with local produce and a glass of wine included.
Tiffany Cafe Bar
1.1 km
A friendly and cozy café bar in Llandudno serving hearty British breakfasts and meals with generous portions and welcoming service.
Casanova Italian Restaurant
1.1 km
Authentic Italian dining in Llandudno with wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a warm, inviting atmosphere on Chapel Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Llandudno Rock Shop
1.1 km
Discover the colorful charm and traditional flavors of Llandudno’s beloved Rock Shop on lively Mostyn Street.
Murshi
1.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and artisan treasures at Murshi, Llandudno’s vibrant cooperative gift shop on Mostyn Street.
Clares Department Store
1.2 km
A historic Llandudno department store offering quality goods, friendly service, and a charming shopping experience since 1927.
The House of Names
1.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh souvenirs and local treasures at The House of Names, right on Llandudno’s iconic pier.
Petticoat Lane
1.3 km
Discover unique homewares, stylish clothing, and handcrafted jewellery at Petticoat Lane, Llandudno’s charming boutique near the Victorian seafront.
Page Antiques & Collectables
1.3 km
Discover timeless treasures and local charm at Page Antiques & Collectables, Llandudno’s cozy hub for vintage finds and collectibles.
Llandudno Emporium
1.3 km
Premium aromatherapy and wellness treatments in a tranquil seaside setting on iconic Llandudno Pier.
Kingdom Krafts
1.4 km
Discover ethical gifts, fairtrade treats, and community warmth at Kingdom Krafts, Llandudno’s cherished fairtrade and Christian shop.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
1.4 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and classic fashion at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Llandudno’s premier destination for quality clothing.
Victoria Shopping Centre
1.4 km
North Wales’ premier shopping destination blending high street brands and independent stores in the heart of Llandudno.
About You
1.4 km
Discover stylish, affordable ladies' fashion with personalized service in Llandudno’s vibrant Victoria Centre.
The Gift Company
1.4 km
Llandudno's premier destination for distinctive gifts, home décor, and quality furnishings in a welcoming, centrally located shop.
The X Factory Outlet
1.5 km
Explore the best of fashion at The X Factory Outlet in Llandudno, where style meets affordability in a charming seaside town.
The Crystal Hut Clonmel Street Llandudno
1.6 km
Discover the magic and energy of healing crystals at The Crystal Hut, Llandudno’s premier spiritual gift boutique.
Wizarding Boutique
1.6 km
Step into Llandudno’s Wizarding Boutique for an immersive Harry Potter shopping experience filled with magical treasures and enchanting events.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kings Head
0.8 km
Llandudno’s oldest traditional pub serving real ales, home-cooked food, and lively events in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Snowdon
1.0 km
A warm, dog-friendly pub in Llandudno serving quality food and drinks in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Fat Cat Café Bar
1.0 km
A stylish and welcoming bar in Llandudno offering diverse drinks, all-day dining, and a vibrant social atmosphere in the town centre.
Fountains
1.0 km
Llandudno’s lively corner bar with friendly vibes, diverse drinks, and a unique outdoor veranda on Mostyn Street.
The Gresham
1.1 km
Llandudno’s welcoming cocktail bar with a lively vibe, friendly service, and a diverse drinks menu on Mostyn Street.
The Irish Bar
1.1 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and lively traditional music in the heart of Llandudno’s vibrant pub scene.
Ormo Lounge
1.1 km
A vibrant Llandudno bar and café offering diverse vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes in a lively, modern setting.
The Palladium - JD Wetherspoon
1.1 km
Historic 1920s theatre turned lively Wetherspoon pub offering affordable food and drinks in the heart of Llandudno.
Baytree Hotel Sea View Bar & Grill
1.1 km
Casual seaside dining with hearty grills and sea views on Llandudno’s North Parade, perfect for relaxed meals and drinks by the coast.
Carlton
1.2 km
A lively traditional British pub in Llandudno’s heart, offering classic fare, vibrant events, and warm local hospitality.
3D Management Pubs
1.3 km
Affordable, lively pub in Llandudno’s historic Cocoa House, perfect for a classic British social experience near the town center.
Town House Cafe Bar
1.3 km
A classic, welcoming pub in Llandudno offering hearty meals, local drinks, and a friendly atmosphere in a casual setting.
Cross Keys
1.4 km
A lively, traditional pub in Llandudno offering great drinks, sports on HD screens, live music, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
TAPPS Micropub
1.4 km
A cozy micro pub in Llandudno offering an excellent range of real ales, craft beers, and friendly service in a quirky, welcoming setting.
Oceans Bar
1.5 km
Seaside bar with stunning bay views, local ales, vibrant cocktails, and live summer music at the iconic Llandudno Pier’s end.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
