After finding an abandoned farmhouse in Wales and being told of ghost sightings and a graveyard, Dan, otherwise known as the Welsh Hiker, went exploring in another popular quarry site
Adventures abound in the stunning landscapes of Wales, and one Welsh hiker recently made a remarkable discovery during his explorations. Known to his online followers as the Welsh Hiker, Dan is renowned for documenting his treks and extraordinary finds across Wales, but his latest discovery left him quite astounded.
In a recent TikTok video, he shared his encounter with Dinorwic Quarry (also known as Dinorwig Quarry), a vast former slate quarry nestled between the villages of Llanberis and Dinorwig in Gwynedd. According to Wales Slate, Dinorwic Quarry (Chwarel Dinorig), which towers over Llyn Peris and Llyn Padarn, was once the world’s second-largest slate quarry, operating from 1787 until 1969.
While remnants of its past are still visible, Dan noted that the site has now become a favoured spot for hiking and climbing enthusiasts. The site also made headlines back in July when a landslide occurred at this picturesque location. For the biggest stories in Wales first, sign up to our daily newsletter here
Dan recently posted a video of his exploration of the site online, expressing his awe at what lies within. Despite the traces of its past, he emphasised that the views are simply breathtaking.
In Dan’s own words, the site offers “stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes”, and the footage clearly illustrates why he felt compelled to showcase its beauty.
Dozens of individuals have appreciated the video, with numerous viewers also leaving comments. Visitors acknowledged it provided “beautiful” vistas.
One viewer commented: “Amazing video of a very special place.”
Another contributed: “Great place to explore. You could spend hours there.”
A third person also responded: “And the goats are blinkin’ massive.”
To which Dan replied: “Massive but cool.”
The quarry, which operated between 1787 and 1969, features more than 30 galleries, or terraces, with each connected to a rubble tip. These are also linked to one of the inclined railway systems, which also stands as a feature of the quarry.
When the site shut down in 1969, it was quickly acquired by a company which proceeded to create a hydroelectricity scheme in the vicinity, allowing nearly all the structures to remain intact. The Australia gallery, which features a massive mill building, along with its electrically powered equipment dating from the 1920s, serves as an excellent illustration of this.
Despite Dinorwic Quarry being regarded as a derelict industrial location, it remains partially active. This is due to sections of the site now serving as a favoured tourist attraction for pursuits such as rock climbing and walking.
It also accommodates a power station.
Whilst extraction activities ceased in 1969, they left behind a striking terrain of remnants, vintage machinery and railway lines that display the region’s abundant industrial legacy. This is, arguably, why countless individuals consider the location so compelling to explore.
Llechi Cymru, speaking on the safety of visiting the site, said: “The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales is undoubtedly fascinating, but by its very nature can be remote, dangerous and challenging. A significant proportion of the landscape is within private ownership and some of this on land where no public access is permitted.
“Before you set off to explore the slate landscape, ask yourself, am I allowed to access this site? Do I have the right gear? Do I know what the weather will be like? Do I have the knowledge and skills for the day? Go to AdventureSmart.uk to find out how to enjoy your visit safely.”
