Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenavon

Fascinating insight into the industry that defined South Wales. The mine is in a beautiful area with original buildings and equipment preserved, making for an interesting walk around especially if weather is good to you. However the crown jewel is the underground mine tour which gives you first hand insight into what working in these mines would've been like. Our tour guide Pete was incredible! He was a retired miner himself, from generations of Welsh miners. He was extremely informative and entertaining, and could give us his own experience of working in a mine. The tour lasted around 45 minutes and covered a lot of important aspects of the mine. There are very low ceilings at some parts, at nearly 6ft I found myself almost at a right angle at some parts to get through, but the bits where you have to duck are quick and you won't be walking for more than a minute or so in those parts. However due to this, uneven ground, and the dark setting, I don't recommend the tour for those with mobility impairments or those who are claustrophobic. Parking is £5 which I think is more than fair when the museum is free. Staff are friendly and there's a gift shop with a good mix of tourist novelties, information, and independent artist goods. If you are able bodied I would definitely recommend going to the Big Pit!

This is a great place for all the family. (children less than 1metre tall aren't allowed down the mine for safety reasons). Before we went down the mine we were kitted out with lamps and safety gear. Our guide was an ex-miner who gave an excellent tour. His stories about life below ground for the men, children and animals who worked there really gave us food for thought. The trip down the mine lasts about 50 minutes; you should wear sensible clothing and shoes as it is cold, and slippery in parts. We had to wait a bit for our tour as we went on a Sunday. You can also book a time for your tour online for 5 pounds. Otherwise the whole museum is free. As well as the mine tour, I really enjoyed seeing the baths, canteen and medical centre. Highly recommended!