Step back into South Wales’ industrial past with this steam train and mining experience at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway. Combining heritage railway travel, breakfast, and an underground mine tour, it’s a fascinating day out for history and railway enthusiasts alike. Your experience begins at Furnace Sidings with breakfast before boarding a steam train to the Big Pit National Coal Museum. Explore the museum’s exhibits and discover the stories of the miners who once worked here. The highlight of the day is the guided underground tour, where you will descend 90 metres below ground with an experienced guide to explore the original mine tunnels and learn what life underground was really like. Back above ground, continue your journey along the heritage railway with unlimited travel included throughout the day. Depending on the timetable, you may also get the chance to ride one of Blaenavon’s heritage diesel trains. Located within the UNESCO-listed Blaenavon Industrial Landscape near the Brecon Beacons, this unique experience offers the perfect mix of history, heritage, and steam railway adventure.
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Most customers buy a flexible voucher and book later. Here are the key things to know:
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Overview
- Enjoy a scenic 60-minute steam train ride departing from and returning to Blaenavon Railway
- Receive entry to the Underground Tour at The Big Pit National Coal Museum
- Enjoy a breakfast sandwich and your choice of hot drink or bubbly
- This voucher is valid for Two people
What's Included
- Scenic 60-minute steam train ride departing from and returning to Blaenavon Railway
- Visit The Big Pit National Coal Museum
- Entry for the Underground Tour at The Big Pit National Coal Museum is also included with this experience
- Your rover ticket on standard running days allows you to travel as much as you want and to leave and rejoin the train at any station
- Breakfast sandwich and your choice of hot drink or bubbly
- An additional 60-minute diesel train ride (selected days)
- E-guided circular hike from the venue to a scenic local beauty spot
- Free on-site parking and café facilities available
The Underground Tour
- Get kitted out with your hard hat and battery lamp, then step into the ‘cage’ to descend
- underground to discover the harsh realities of coal mining through the centuries.
- Tours are led by mine guides. Hear all about your guide’s working life and experiences in the coal mine.
- Discover the different ages of mining, from Victorian times, when women and children worked underground alongside men
- Find out about the role of pit ponies and how modern machinery changed coal mining
Suitable For
- Under 16s must be accompanied by a participating adult
Availability
- Tours are available in May, June, July and August
- Underground tours are available between 10:00 and 15.30
- Dates and timings are subject to availability
Locations:
- Blaenavon Heritage Railway, Torfaen
- Big Pit National Coal Museum, Torfaen
Anything Else
- Friends and family are welcome; however, they will be required to pay for train and entry tickets on the day (subject to availability)
How the Voucher Works
- Purchase the voucher online
- Receive your e-voucher or gift pack
- Redeem online to select location and date
- Enjoy your experience
