Bucket list experience:
Carnon stone viaduct
Blessed with more than 40 different minerals, especially lucrative tin and copper, Cornwall became the richest part of Britain in the early 19th century, pioneering global development of the mining industry. As Poldark fans will know, in the late 19th century, increasing foreign competition depressed prices making mining less and less economical. The industry entered a period of steady decline, and the last mine, South Crofty, closed in 1998.
The Mineral Tramways Heritage Project has been working to preserve Cornwall’s central mining district, a scenic landscape of lovely Cornish countryside that’s studded with (safe) abandoned mines, mining villages and other heritage sites.
A 60km network of multi-use trails now crisscross the area, many following the original tramway and railway routes once used to transport ore and supplies to and from the many mines to the coastal ports. It’s easy going, and packed with local wildlife.
Learn more about Cornwall’s mining history at the Mineral Tramways Discovery Centre, which has displays and information about the old mineral tramways and the mines they supported, and the King Edward Mine Museum, a 100-year-old preserved mine. There’s more information on the area’s heritage on the Cornish Mining website.
Want more recommendations in this destination?
Destination Guide >Redruth, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)
This short, 7-mile circular off-road walk or cycle trail circles the historic hilltop site of Carn Brea, passing by South Wheal Frances and South Crofty mines. Access it from Camborne or Redruth train stations, or the car park at Treskillard. The trail passes by the King Edward Mine Museum.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free | 2-3 hours
Cambornev, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)
A 100-year-old preserved tin mine showcasing the history of mining (and the Mineral Tramways generally); much of the original mining equipment remains. It includes the Mineral Tramways Discovery Centre, with displays and information about the old mineral tramways, the mines, the ports used by the industry and the people involved with the trade.
Best for ages: 8+ | £8
Maps of the trails and other helpful logistical information are on the website.
If you’re coming by rail, the main train stations in the area are Camborne, Redruth and Truro (all on the main line). There are multiple bike hire shop options, so choose one near your preferred starting/access point; many have free car parking. Go By Cycle will deliver/collect bikes from pre-arranged points in the area. Book bikes in advance in peak season.
The various trails that form the Mineral Tramways are open all year round. It’s obviously weather dependent, though hardly souls go in all conditions. May and September are best, with fine weather and fewer crowds. UK summer holidays in July & August (usually) have the best weather but also the most fellow cyclists.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
St Ives, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[15.1 miles]
A beautifully chic, beautifully run boutique hotel outside St Ives, with stunning ocean views. No kids under 16.
Official star rating:
Falmouth, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[15.4 miles]
A beautifully decorated country house in buzzing Falmouth, with an outstanding restaurant and excellent spa and wellness facilities. Children 12 and over welcome.
Official star rating:
St Ives, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[15.9 miles]
Tranquil, luxury boutique hotel and spa, perfectly located on Porthminster Beach, with stunning views out to sea.
Official star rating:
St Mawes, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[18.3 miles]
Elegant, waterfront family hotel offering quiet sophistication in the yacht-filled harbour town of St Mawes. A Cornish, if not world, classic.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)
A region of craggy cliffs, sheltered creeks, glorious sandy beaches and quintessential villages – rich in local life, pagan legend and delicious, locally-made food and drink.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Falmouth, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[15.4 miles]
Four-day foodie extravaganza, with oyster dredging, celebrity-chef masterclasses, live music and overflowing (sea)food stalls.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
St Ives, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[16 miles]
The former home and studio of Barbara Hepworth – one of Britain’s foremost modernist sculptors. Works in wood, bronze and stone, mainly of the abstract human form.
Best for ages: 13+ | £7
St Ives, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[16.1 miles]
Internationally-renowned contemporary art gallery, an offshoot of London’s Tate, idyllically set overlooking Porthmeor Beach.
Best for ages: 4+ | £11
Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[19.6 miles]
A spellbinding, castle-laden tidal island, famous for its ancient access causeway that’s covered by water at high tide.
Best for ages: 13+ | £26
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[11.2 miles]
Lovely 15-mile traffic-free cycling trail combining scenic beauty and views with Cornwall’s rich mining heritage.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free | 1-2 hours
Falmouth, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[13.6 miles]
Vegetarians and garden-to-table advocates should stop by this organic garden that prides itself on producing its own organic food. Explore the gardens then sample its produce in the café. The garden hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as music festivals, workshops, and markets.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Falmouth, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[15.1 miles]
This permanent collection contains over 200 works by major British artists including Sir Frank Brangwyn, Sir Edward Coley Burne-Jones, Sir Alfred Munnings, Henry Scott Tuke and Dame Laura Knight. The Gallery also puts on a varied temporary exhibitions programme
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Porthleven, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)[15.2 miles]
Established in Cornwall in 2004 by a group of enthusiasts, Origin specialises in sourcing and roasting exceptional coffee. Book ahead for tours of their roastery in Helston, or head to their café at Harbour Head in Porthleven to sample the goods (with a slice of artisan cake).
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
![The Coast-to-Coast Trail [cycling]](https://familyhotelfinder.com/wp-content/uploads/Worlds-greatest-long-distance-hikes-Cornwall-South-West-Coast-Path6-SH.jpg)
