Chris Knight, author of award-winning blogging site 'Oh What a Knight', challenges himself with one of Go Below's underground adventures - a journey deep into the abandoned Cwmorthin slate quarry near Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Heading down the mine with expert guides from Go Below, Chris traverses a route through the pitch-black caverns using ropes clinging to the walls, rickety-looking wooden bridges, abseiling, freefall drops, via ferrata and an incredible 130m long zip line. Along the way, Chris learns about the fascinating and humbling history of Cwmorthin, and the harsh conditions the workers endured.
Chris KnightIt was truly one of the best experiences I've ever had in Wales"
Mining activities at the site started in 1810, and continued sporadically until the 1970s. Go Below Underground Adventures now manage the mine, and offer two adventures in Cwmorthin - Hero Xtreme and Ultimate Xtreme. If you fancy challenging yourself to this exhilarating experience, you'll need a moderate level of fitness, waterproof, warm clothing you don't mind getting dirty, and a sense of adventure. It's not suitable for people who are petrified of the dark or heights.
Cwmorthin and the area around Blaenau Ffestiniog are part of the unique UNESCO Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales heritage site. If you'd like to explore the area by foot, there's a section of the Llwybr Llechi Eryri / Snowdonia Slate Trail covering Croesor, Rhosydd and Cwmorthin quarries and the above ground remains.
