Sygun Copper Mine
Sygun Copper Mine: A Journey Underground in the Heart of Snowdonia
Tucked into the hills near Beddgelert, the Sygun Copper Mine offers a completely different kind of Snowdonia adventure, one that takes you beneath the mountains, into a world carved out by miners over centuries. With its winding tunnels, colourful rock formations, and rich history, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the area’s industrial past and a great option for families, history buffs, and anyone needing a break from the mountain trails.
Experience Sygun Copper Mine
Visiting Sygun Copper Mine is like stepping back in time. The self-guided audio tour leads you deep into the old Victorian mine workings, where you’ll walk through narrow passageways and cavernous chambers once filled with miners extracting copper by hand. The underground journey reveals beautifully coloured rock walls, old tools, and mineral veins that still glint in the light.
Above ground, the site offers panoramic views over the Glaslyn Valley, a small museum, and a family-friendly café, making it a well-rounded stop on any Snowdonia itinerary. Whether you’re escaping bad weather or just curious about Wales’ industrial heritage, Sygun offers an experience that’s both educational and immersive.
Walks & Hikes Near Sygun Copper Mine
While the mine itself is underground, the surrounding area offers some fantastic walking routes. Here are a few to check out before or after your visit:
Llyn Dinas Circular
- Distance: 2.5 mi / 4 km
- Time: 1.5–2 hrs
- Difficulty: Easy
A gentle loop around the lake just below the mine. Expect peaceful waterside views, woodland paths, and scenic spots for a picnic.
South Ridge
- Distance: 4.5 mi / 7.2 km
- Time: 2 hrs 20 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
One of the most beautiful river walks in North Wales. Follow the Glaslyn River through woodland and rocky gorges, with occasional scrambling and bridges to keep things interesting. Perfect for families and photographers.
Gelert’s Grave and Beddgelert Riverside Walk
- Distance: 1.5 mi / 2.4 km
- Time: 45 mins–1 hr
- Difficulty: Easy
A relaxed riverside walk starting in Beddgelert village, passing the famous Gelert’s Grave. Ideal for a short, family-friendly outing.
Aberglaslyn Pass
- Distance: 3.5 mi / 5.6 km (circular from Beddgelert)
- Time: 2–2.5
- Difficulty: Moderate
A dramatic walk along the rushing Afon Glaslyn through a rocky gorge. Combine it with the Fisherman’s Path for a rewarding circular route with a mix of woodland and riverbank.
How to Get to Sygun Copper Mine
Sygun Copper Mine is located just outside Beddgelert, off the A498. If you’re driving, there’s free on-site parking available. The site is well-signposted and easy to reach from Llanberis, Porthmadog, or Caernarfon.
If travelling by public transport, the nearest train station is in Porthmadog, with local buses running to Beddgelert. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the mine.
What to Know Before You Go
The mine is self-guided, with audio handsets provided. The underground path includes stairs, low ceilings, and uneven ground, so it’s best to wear sturdy shoes and bring a jacket; it can get chilly below the surface. Young children will enjoy the adventure, though the tunnels may be too narrow or dark for those who are claustrophobic.
Dogs are allowed on site but not inside the mine itself. The attraction is open seasonally, typically from Easter to October. Check their website for up-to-date opening times and ticket prices.
Why We Love Sygun Copper Mine
It’s rare to find an experience that’s fun, educational, and completely different from the rest of what Snowdonia offers. Sygun Copper Mine delivers all three. The underground setting gives a real sense of what life was like for Victorian miners, and the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding hills only adds to the atmosphere. It’s an ideal stop whether you’re escaping the rain, travelling with kids, or looking to add a little history to your Snowdonia adventure.
A Bit of Sygun History
Copper has been mined in this area since Roman times, but the tunnels you walk today were dug in the 19th century, when demand for copper was high during the Industrial Revolution. The mine was eventually abandoned in the early 1900s, but thanks to a restoration project in the 1980s, Sygun reopened as a visitor attraction and has since won awards for its contribution to heritage tourism.
The colourful mineral walls, remnants of old mining equipment, and preserved tunnels offer a real insight into Wales’ industrial legacy, one that shaped not only the local landscape but also communities across Snowdonia.
Keep exploring
Sygun Copper Mine is just one of many fascinating places to visit in the Beddgelert area. Ready to discover more? From scenic walks to ancient castles and cosy village cafés, there’s plenty waiting nearby.