National Coal Mining Museum for England
National Coal Mining Museum for England
Ages
All ages
Price
Free
The National Coal Mining Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Britain's mining heritage through a restored colliery with working pit head baths, pit pony centre, and surrounding nature trails. The highlight for most families is the underground tour, which takes you down into the actual mine workings with knowledgeable guides who make the experience both informative and engaging.
Above ground, you can explore the time tunnel exhibition, walk through the bath house where miners once cleaned up after their shifts, and meet the pit ponies that still live on site. The museum works well for children aged 8 and upwards who can manage the underground tour, though younger visitors will still enjoy the above-ground attractions, nature trails, and open spaces. There's also a cafe and gift shop on site.
Facilities
What to bring
- Warm layers and a waterproof jacket, as underground tours are cool and damp year-round
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for uneven mine terrain and muddy paths
- A torch or headlamp to spot details during the underground tour
- Snacks and a water bottle, though there is a cafe on site
- A camera or phone to capture memories of the pit ponies and heritage buildings
- Hand wipes or a change of clothes for younger children, as the mine environment can be dusty
Top tips
- Book underground colliery tours in advance as spaces fill up quickly, especially during school holidays and weekends
- Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty, as the mine environment is dusty and the ground can be muddy
- Allow at least 3 to 4 hours to experience both the underground tour and above-ground attractions including the pit ponies, bath house tour, and nature trails
- Visit on a quieter weekday if possible to get more time with the staff and avoid crowds on the underground tour
- Check with staff about height restrictions before booking if you have very young children, as some areas underground may have low ceilings
- Explore the nature trail and pit pony centre even if the underground tour is temporarily unavailable, as these are worthwhile experiences in themselves
Practical details
All ages years
Underground tours cost £7.50 and are for ages 5+ only. These are currently paused and will recommence from 1st July 2026.
Entry is free, underground tours cost £7.50 per person