Scottish Mining Museum

The Scottish Mining Museum occupies the site of the former Lady Victoria Colliery and displays how coal was extracted and what machinery was used. Visitors can explore the grounds across multiple levels and see original mining equipment throughout.

The Lady Victoria Colliery opened in 1895 and was one of Scotland's first large-scale coal mines. The mine closed in 1981 and was later transformed into a national museum.

Former miners guide visitors through the site and share stories about their time working underground. These personal accounts reveal what daily life was like in Scottish mining communities.

The museum is best reached by car as it sits on the outskirts of Newtongrange. Comfortable shoes are recommended since exploring the site involves climbing stairs and navigating different ground levels.

The museum houses a Victorian engine house with a working steam engine from the 1890s. This machine still operates and demonstrates to visitors how the industrial equipment of that era actually functioned.

Location: Midlothian

Inception: 1984

Address: Lady Victoria Colliery, Newtongrange, Midlothian, EH22 4QN

Website: https://nationalminingmuseum.com

GPS coordinates: 55.86100,-3.06600

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:41