Mining Life

Hi-Ho Hi-Ho.....it's off to work we go.....

Here at the Oakeley Arms, we're surrounded by history, industry and unique local legends, but one of the most important is industrial heritage that lies deep under the rolling hills and fields of the Ffestiniog Valley. It's important to us today because it is thanks to the slate mining industry that most of this area grew and developed. Indeed, our namesake, the Oakeley family of Plas Tan-y-Bwlch owned some of the largest and most profitable slate mines in the area (you can read more about the history of the Oakeley family on our blog post here)

But, have you ever wondered what life was really like for these industrious slate miners and their families? Well, now's your chance to find out. There's a fabulous museum and exhibition in Corris, which is not too far from the Oakeley Arms.

The Corris Mine Explorers is your chance to really go back in time and discover what this historic industry was all about. The Braich Goch slate mine was first opened in 1836 and was worked until is was abandoned 40 years ago. This unique visitor centre really allows you into the depths of the mine, taking you back along 130 years of fascinating history.

Image by Peter Smyly on wikicommons

And every Wednesday evening until the 29th August, this underground world is brought to life with a dramatic performance by Theatre Rue and the Corris Mine Explorers. Life and Death Underground is a fabulous dramatic performance about the daily life and toils of a Victorian slate miner. The atmospheric production will unfold by candelight... it's not one to be missed....

Performances are every Wednesday at 4pm and 7pm

Adults: £10 and Children: £7

At the Corris Craft Centre, Corris, Machynlleth. SY20 9RF

For more information visit http://www.corrismineexplorers.co.uk/ or call 01654 761 244

Corris is near the town of Machynlleth; less than 30 miles away from the Oakeley Arms Hotel.