Carnglaze Caverns

Activities

Explore Carnglaze Caverns - Cornwall’s only underground slate mine, with huge hand-carved caverns, an enchanted woodland walk and underground lake.

Opening Times

Normal hours: Wednesday-Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 (Holiday Hours: 7 days a week 10:00 - 18:00)

Please check their website for most current opening times.

Carnglaze Caverns – Cornwall’s Underground World of Slate, Stories & Spectacle
Hidden beneath eight acres of ancient woodland on the southern edge of Bodmin Moor, Carnglaze Caverns offers one of Cornwall’s most atmospheric and intriguing days out. Once an open-cast slate quarry, miners began tunnelling underground more than 300 years ago, carving out three vast caverns entirely by hand. Today, visitors can journey 150 metres into the hillside, equipped with a safety helmet and a simple route plan, you’re free to explore at your own pace. Information boards throughout the chambers share the story of the miners who shaped them, and in the first cavern you’ll find an impressive display of minerals from across the South West. Underground the third cavern has transformed into a crystal-clear underground lake with blue-green water that feels almost enchanted.

Above ground, the experience continues through shaded woodland trails, The 20-minute woodland walk wraps the visit together beautifully, blending storytelling with natural beauty.

Carnglaze is Cornwall’s only slate mine, and the deep-blue slate extracted here once roofed buildings across the region and fuelled the Industrial Revolution. Evidence of tin and copper mining remains throughout the site, although ancient mine shafts are safely closed off today.

Because the caverns operate with limited numbers in the lower levels, pre-booking is advised, and warm layers and sensible shoes are recommended for the cool underground environment.

Carnglaze isn’t just a historic site – it’s also one of Cornwall’s most distinctive event venues, offering an underground stage for concerts, live music, theatrical performances, seasonal events, craft fairs and private functions. Because of these events, the caverns occasionally close to the public, with online bookings paused during private hire periods.

Whether you’re exploring Cornwall’s mining legacy, seeking a memorable family outing, or looking for an extraordinary event venue, Carnglaze Caverns delivers a blend of history, nature and atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the county.

Location

Directions

https://maps.app.goo.gl/C2jSff93AWM49jMQ6

Address

Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, Liskeard PL14 6HQ, UK

What3Words ///slime.provide.reliving

01579 320251

www.carnglaze.com

Driving from our parks

Tamar View: 17.33 miles / 31 mins
Notter Bridge: 16.4 miles / 29 mins

Rating

★★★★★4.5

Based on 2,143 reviews

Info correct at time of publish: December 2, 2025. Always check with location before visiting.

Reviews

Wendy Peskett

a month ago

Our visit to Carnglaze Caverns was great. Even without a guided tour, we found plenty to explore and enjoy at our own pace. It doesn't take too long to get round.
The caverns are fascinating cool, vast, and beautifully lit to highlight the natural rock formations and the incredible man-made spaces carved out over the years. The Subterranean Lake was especially breathtaking, with its crystal-clear water. I loved seeing the LP cover shown where the photo was taken on the lake.
Above ground, the woodland walk is a lovely addition to the visit. The trail is well signposted and has quirky sculptures and little surprises along the way. It’s a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area after spending time underground.
Obviously there are a lot of steps and uneven ground. Wear good shoes.
Everything is well maintained, the staff were friendly and welcoming, and the whole experience felt relaxed and unhurried.
Nice little tea shop to relax after your visit.

2 months ago

First, the drive up to the caverns once you turn off the main roads was different. You feel like there is no one else on earth, which can be a bit spooky as the woods around you envelope you fully.
The caverns tell of recent past mining history, and helps you picture what life would have been like for those who worked in them. The woodland walk was a lovely additional delight.
Didn't try the cafe, but it seemed to be busy.

Chloe Oxford

2 months ago

What a fantastic day out. Prices were £36 for 2 adults and one child. But this was at the option you could come back anytime throughout the day. The cave was fantastic. All the lights to colour up the cave were amazing. My son loved the whole experience. Great for a rainy day as well

Sue Sherris

3 months ago

Went to see the Spooky Men's in the evening. Fantastic concert, setting, food and bar.
Stayed overnight in our van (£6) and visited the cavern in the morning followed by a very enjoyable woodland walk (keep an eye out for all the fairy folk and piskies). All brilliant and very interesting.
Crumpets and coffee definitely worth it for a late brunch!
Last but not least.... the staff were awesome 👌 so friendly and helpful.

Donna Cousins

3 months ago

A lovely place to visit on a hot day. All the staff were very friendly. The caverns were interesting but there wasn't a lot to see. The woodland walk was lovely.
All in all it was a mornings visit but for the price £20 for 1 adult and a 15yr old it was good value.