Carnglaze is set amongst 8 acres of ancient oak woodland in the steep-sided Loveny Valley on the southern edge of Bodmin Moor in Cornwall.

Originally, it was an open cast quarry, but over 300 years ago the miners started digging underground, by hand, resulting in the formation of three large caverns.

During your visit you will go about 150m into the hillside and 60m below ground. Between the first cavern, on the upper level, there is a flight of 50 steps down to the other two caverns. The third cavern is now flooded and forms an underground lake, with its crystal clear blue/green water.

You will be briefed and equipped with a route plan and safety helmet, to freely roam the three caverns.
There are information boards which tell the story of Carnglaze and the skill of the miners.

Walking around the caverns usually takes around 25-30 minutes, if you take in the information and enjoy the environment.
There is also a 20 minute woodland walk, to keep the kids entertained.

In the first cavern, you will be able to browse a comprehensive collection of minerals mined and quarried in the South West.

Carnglaze is Cornwall’s only slate mine (there are other, open cast quarries) and as such, played an important part in the mining heritage of Cornwall. It was slate that roofed the industrial revolution and the fine, dark blue slate from Carnglaze was used throughout South East Cornwall and beyond.

At Carnglaze there is also extensive evidence of tin and copper mining, the mine shafts (adits) are not accessible today, for safety reasons.

The Caverns are at a constant 10°C underground, so a jumper and sensible footwear are recommended.

There is a limit on numbers allowed in the lower caverns at one time – pre-booking a time slot is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Please note that the Caverns might occasionally have to close for a private event. Online bookings are not available during these times.