Widehorizons Outdoor Education Trust
Widehorizons Outdoor Education Trust

Outdoor Education Courses - Slate Mine Exploration

Suitability: All Age Groups* Duration: 1/2 to 2/3 of a day
The area surrounding the Centre has literally hundreds of old slate mines, which are fascinating places to explore.

Mine Exploration differs from Caving in that it is rare to find small spaces. Slate mines usually consist of tunnels which link huge underground chambers from which slate was extracted.
For Secondary groups and Adults, a trip through a mine may involve the use of ropes to assist moving safely up and down between different levels.

For Primary students, the mine which is is often most appropriate offers an underground version of orienteering.
The mines used by the Centre are regularly inspected by a qualified mining engineer and certified safe for group use. Groups will be issued with helmets and miners head-lamps.

Mine exploration combines well with Orienteering or another short activity close to the Centre.


Mine Exploration can be dependant on safe water levels in the Mines which we use. Consideration will always be given to past, current and predicted weather patterns. If Centre staff deem conditions unsuitable, this activity will be substituted or ammended. Centre Staff will also reserve the right to select what they percieve to be the most appropriate venu for a particular group of students.