Recognisable by its square forge chimney and cluster of buildings, the King Edward Mine Museum is the oldest complete working mine site in Cornwall. It comprises part of the South Condurrie Mine, which was originally opened up for tin extraction in 1844. It closed after becoming unprofitable in 1896, and later turned over to the Camborne School of Mines. This used the shafts as a practice mine for its students for many years.
But what makes the presence of the museum all the more impressive is the fact that the site was derelict for years and only brought back to life by a team of eager volunteers. Altogether, they spent an incredible 10,000 hours recreating all that you find before you when you visit today.
A grade II* listed building, the museum was created to depict the workings of the mine in the early years of the twentieth century. The exhibition space is located within what would have been the mill engine room, while visitors are also able to explore the engine shaft in order to discover the work involved in producing tin from its ore a century ago.
Part of the Cornish Mining UNESCO World Heritage Site, the King Edward Mine Museum is also perfectly situated beside the 7.5-mile circular Great Flat Lode walking and cycling trail.
The museum is open Sunday to Wednesdays during the summer months. The last tours being at 3 pm. There is also a popular cafe on site - the Croust Hut.
