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Big Pit National Coal Museum and its collection

Big Pit National Coal Museum
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The Big Pit National Coal Museum is an industrial museum situated in Blaenavon, Torfaen, Wales. It was originally a coal mine that operated for a century from 1880 to 1980. The former mine was opened to the public in 1983 and now serves as a visitor mine, commemorating the significant coal mining history of Wales during the industrial revolution.

Origins of Big Pit

Big Pit started as an iron mine, which was manually dug into the mountain not far below the surface around the year 1810. Dynamite was only used decades later in the subsequently opened coal mine, for which the tunnel of the iron mine served as an emergency exit.

Big Pit's Network and History

Big Pit was part of a network of mines, which was established in the early 19th century in Blaenavon. After a long history, the mine finally ceased operations on February 2, 1980, as one of the last in Blaenavon. 250 people lost their jobs as a result. Some of them now serve as tour guides for the tours.

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ENBig Pit: National Coal Museum

Science & Technology Science & Technology Specialized & Alternative Specialized & Alternative Industrial heritage

#3 Free museums in Wales #3 Science & Technology in Wales #2 Industrial & heritage museums in Wales #99 Free museums in Europe #125 Science & Technology in Europe #75 Industrial & heritage museums in Europe #34 Free museums in United Kingdom #29 Science & Technology in United Kingdom #24 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom

#3 Free museums in Wales #3 Science & Technology in Wales #2 Industrial & heritage museums in Wales #99 Free museums in Europe #125 Science & Technology in Europe #75 Industrial & heritage museums in Europe #34 Free museums in United Kingdom #29 Science & Technology in United Kingdom #24 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom

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Big Pit National Coal Museum
Big Pit: National Coal Museum
NP4 9XP Blaenavon

Images of Big Pit National Coal Museum

Visitor information Big Pit National Coal Museum

Opening hours

Monday
9:30 – 17:00
Tuesday
9:30 – 17:00
Wednesday
9:30 – 17:00
Thursday
9:30 – 17:00
Friday
9:30 – 17:00
Saturday
9:30 – 17:00
Sunday
9:30 – 17:00

1 February 2025-November 2025

More opening hours

Admission

0+Free
More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Coffee
Restaurant

Location & Map

Big Pit: National Coal Museum, Blaenavon

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Big Pit National Coal Museum have been found.

Big Pit National Coal Museum Reviews

Big Pit National Coal Museum has 3 ratings.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Big Pit National Coal Museum in Blaenavon, Wales offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of coal mining. The museum's highlight is the underground tour, where visitors descend 300 feet into a former working coal mine, guided by ex-miners who share their first-hand experiences and knowledge. This authentic tour provides a real sense of what life was like for miners, complete with the sights, sounds, and even the darkness of a genuine coal mine.

    The museum also features above-ground exhibitions that showcase the industrial heritage of Wales, including machinery, equipment, and artifacts from the mining era. These displays offer additional context to the underground experience and help visitors understand the broader impact of coal mining on Welsh history and culture.

    Many visitors appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly staff, particularly the ex-miners who lead the tours. Their personal stories and insights add depth and authenticity to the experience. The museum is generally considered educational and eye-opening, suitable for both adults and children.

    However, some visitors note that the experience can be physically challenging, especially for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia. The underground tour involves walking through narrow, sometimes low passages, which may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, on busy days, there might be wait times for the underground tour.

    The museum's location in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Blaenavon adds to its appeal, with some visitors recommending exploring the surrounding area as well. Overall, the Big Pit National Coal Museum provides a valuable and engaging look into an important aspect of Welsh industrial history, though visitors should be prepared for the physical nature of the experience.

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  • V
    Vanessa Bramhill • Jun 28, 2025

    This was a five star experience- a must see. Beautifully curated and the staff are passionate as well as knowledgeable. A great experience for our family of seven.

    Visited on Jun 23, 2025

  • K
    Keith • Sep 15, 2024

    Having a guide who mocked and made a fool of me on several occasions because I am Scottish completely spoiled my visit to the Big Pit. It was very disappointing and has been the only time I have experienced this in Wales. I would never behave like this to anyone. It was very embarrassing for my friend and other visitors.

    Visited on Sep 14, 2024

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