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Go underground with experienced guides, explore the historic colliery above ground and discover the people and communities shaped by coal.
Big Pit National Coal Museum brings Wales's industrial history to life at a former working colliery in Blaenavon, within the UNESCO World Heritage landscape east of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.
The underground tour is led by experienced guides, including former miners, and explores the realities of working at the coal face. Above ground, the Pithead Baths, historic colliery buildings and exhibitions tell the story of the industry and the communities shaped by coal.
Museum entry is free. Underground-tour availability and booking arrangements vary: some places may be offered first come, first served, while a paid timed-entry option can provide a guaranteed slot. Children must be at least one metre tall for the underground tour and be able to carry the required safety equipment; the surface mining experience is available to all ages.
Big Pit occupies a steep, multi-level industrial site. Level entry, blue-badge parking, accessible toilets, manual wheelchairs, induction loops, sensory resources and an access guide are available, but some routes are long or steep. Wheelchair users should contact the museum in advance if they want to join the underground tour, where transfer, assistance and capacity conditions apply.
Day parking is charged, with free parking for blue-badge holders and motorbikes. A coffee shop and museum gift shop are available. Ordinary dogs and emotional-support animals are limited to the outdoor areas on a short lead; trained assistance dogs can enter most museum spaces but not the underground tour. Use the main button to check current opening times, access advice and tour arrangements.
