Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
By train, Machynlleth is on the Cambrian and Cambrian Coast Lines. Destinations in-
clude Aberystwyth (£6, 37 minutes), Porthmadog (£13.20, 1¾ hours), Pwllheli (£15.30,
2½ hours), Newtown (£9.10, 38 minutes) and Birmingham (£20.90, 2¼ hours).
TOP OF CHAPTER
Around Machynlleth
Corris
POP 720
Set within a commercial pine forest on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, Corris is a
peaceful former slate village, 5 miles north of Machynlleth. With a steam railway, craft
centre, theatre and two subterranean tours in the village's old slate mine and caves, it's
well worth a stop.
Activities
Corris Craft Centre
( 01654-761584;
www.corriscraftcentre.co.uk
; 10am-5.30pm Apr-Oct)
A virtual hive of interconnec-
ted hexagonal workshops for potters, glassblowers, leatherworkers, wood turners, candle-
makers and quilters, along with a cafe to keep everyone productive, the Corris Craft
Centre is an excellent place to see artists and craftspeople at work, join a short workshop
or pick up some souvenirs. The centre is just outside the village of Corris on the A487.
CRAFT
Corris Mine Explorers
( 01654-761244;
www.corrismineexplorers.co.uk
; Corris)
The harsh working conditions and some-
times tragic consequences of working in the mines are brought vividly to life at Corris
Mine Explorers, where you can discover the dark, cramped depths of the old Corris slate
mine. The mine was abandoned about 40 years ago but everything is left just as it was
when the miners last walked out. There are three tour options: a one-hour taster (adult/
child £10/7; minimum age eight), a two-hour explorer (£20; minimum age 10) and a four-
hour expedition (£38; minimum age 13). A reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to
get wet and dirty is required. Bookings essential.
MINE, GUIDED TOUR
Corris Railway
HERITAGE RAILWAY
