The Underground Explorer - Explore an Abandoned Cornish Tin Mine

The Underground Explorer is our entry-level mine trip. We visit an ancient, abandoned Cornish tin mine, tucked away in an idyllic location on a Cornish cliffside. We get to explore a few levels of this authentic mine, left as it was when abandoned by the miners long ago. The trip is largely an easy walk-in, walk-out trip, with some optional extras, such as some short crawls to reach more workings. There is even the option to try a small abseil to give you a flavour of what more advanced acting techniques are all about. Unlike a show mine, this is authentic exploration, using caving equipment, and the only sources of light are the head torches we attache to our helmets. As well as giving you a good dose of adventure, we also share the history of Cornish mining, and we feel the only way to truly appreciate this huge part of Cornwall's heritage is to see it for yourself, up close and personal.
This trip does include confined spaces and a reasonable level of fitness is required. If you are not sure if this trip is for you, please get in touch so we can have a chat. For those looking for the ultimate underground experience in Cornwall, then please see our Underground Adventurer.

Itinerary

You will meet your instructor in the car park, and we'll commence getting prepped for the trip, putting on our caving suits, wellies, helmets and harnesses. After double-checking the head torches are good to go, we set off. We have to walk fifteen minutes, or so, overland to reach the mine. Along the way we get to talk about the various surface mining features we pass, as well as enjoy this stunning section of coastline.
When we reach the mine, we have to descend some steep coastal slopes to reach the deep level of the mine. And finally we're underground, making our way along a 300-year-old tunnel that leads to the inner workings of the mine. We spend half of the tour exploring this level, before making our way up to the top level where we can try some abseiling. There's a lot more to it than that, and we look forward to welcoming you on this trip to enjoy the full experience.
Once you've completed this trip, you may decide you're ready for the Underground Adventurer next time you visit Cornwall!
The minimum age for this trip is 10 years old. A reasonable level of fitness is required and there will be some tight spaces.