Penmachno quarry

Penmachno quarry is located at the head of the River Machno valley and features tiered pits alongside underground chambers spanning five main bands of Ordovician slate. The site shows multiple levels of extraction across its landscape where stone was taken out over many generations.

Extraction began in 1818 and continued until 1962, with peak production occurring around 1898. This long period of operation marks it as a significant site in the region's industrial past.

The slate quarried here was used to build the bardic chair for the 2019 National Eisteddfod of Wales in Llanrwst. This connection reflects the ongoing importance of the site to Welsh artistic traditions.

The site sits at about 330 meters above sea level, and water supply varied depending on weather conditions. Visitors should be aware of the elevation and the terrain's rugged character when planning a visit.

Unlike many other Welsh quarries, this site did not use railways but instead moved its slate by horse-drawn carts to a riverside wharf at Trefriw. This unusual transportation method was central to how the operation remained viable.

Location: Conwy County Borough

Elevation above the sea: 330 m

GPS coordinates: 53.00439,-3.86286

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:24