BSC26: Industrial Heritage Walk (Sat)
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5 people waitlisted
This is one of the events organised as part of Big Spring Camp 2026.
Join us for a 12km circular walk from the rugby cub including a shed load of industrial heritage.
You will have time for parkrun beforehand if that way inclined ... or just have a hangover.
From the rugby club we bimble behind Trefriw to Klondyke mill, an impressive ruin. Constructed in 1900, the mill was built to receive lead and zinc ore from Pandora mine, some 2 miles away. The mill saw little usage; Pandora mine was never profitable after construction of the mill, and the mine ceased operation in 1905. Klondyke mill itself closed in 1911 after having a short succession of optimistic owners.
From there we cut through the woods to Clogwyn y Fuwch Slate Quarry, begun as early as the eighteenth century. The site is unusual with workings on six levels going into a near-vertical scarp of some 400 feet on very steeply sloping ground. Sledges were originally used but later an incline brought material down to road level. There are a couple of caves to look at (and enter at your own risk).
If time we will head to the Hafna Lead Mine. The Hafna Mine has the most extensive and best preserved remains of any of the mines on the Gwydyr estate and it was once one of the most important lead mining areas in the United Kingdom.
This walk is rated hard as there is a 200m steep scramble, which you will curse and hate the leader for, but the views and industrial features are worth the slog.
Event full? Please join the waiting list. Places usually open up as the event gets nearer and, where necessary, we try to add additional leaders to increase the numbers, so you are highly likely to get a place.
Image / photo credits: All images (c) Will Allaway with permission for OutdoorLads to use and reuse.
What to bring
Waterproof jacket and trousers: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Walking Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Food & drink
You will need to bring a packed lunch and plenty of water (at least 2 litres).
At the end of the walk, there may be an optional visit to a local pub for a drink.