Levant Mine and Beam Engine

Levant Mine is a former coastal mining complex in Cornwall housing a restored beam engine from the 1840s within its original engine house. The entire site displays the technical equipment and structures required for copper and tin extraction in this region.

The mine emerged in the early 19th century and remained active until the 1930s. During this period it underwent several expansions and technical upgrades to adapt to changing extraction demands.

The site reflects how mining traditions shaped communities across Cornwall for generations. Visitors can observe the engineering practices and tools that workers relied on daily to descend and extract ore from deep underground.

The site sits on an exposed cliff and requires suitable clothing for changeable weather. A visit is clearly marked on location with some areas accessible to people with limited mobility, though not all parts of the complex can be entered.

The beam engine remains the only one of its kind still functioning at its original site, demonstrating a rare continuity in industrial history. Its regular demonstrations show visitors how the machine actually worked and reveal the engineering skill of that era.

Location: Cornwall

Operator: National Trust

Address: Levant Road, Trewellard, Penzance TR19 7SX

Website: https://nationaltrust.org.uk/levant-mine-and-beam-engine

GPS coordinates: 50.15202,-5.68539

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40