Penrhyn Quarry, Slate quarry in Bethesda, United Kingdom.
Penrhyn Quarry is a slate mine in Bethesda carved deep into the mountainside with multiple levels and steep walls of grey stone. The site contains vast extraction areas and water-filled pools that have formed in the lowest sections over time.
Large-scale extraction began in the 1770s under Richard Pennant's direction and grew rapidly to become the world's largest slate quarry. By the 1800s it employed hundreds of workers and reshaped the region's entire economy.
The quarry became the heart of the local community and shaped life in Bethesda for generations, with workers and their families forming a tight-knit society. Many residents still connect their family history to the mine and its role in their town.
The site is partially open to visitors, with some areas requiring guided tours or having restricted access depending on current operations. It's wise to check ahead about which sections are accessible and what safety guidelines apply before your visit.
A former extraction area was converted into an adventure space and now features a zip line that soars over the quarry's partially filled water pools. This surprising transformation blends the industrial past with modern recreation and sport.
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