'World's first' underwater museum to open in Wales quarry
An abandoned slate quarry in north Wales that's been submerged underwater for the last 20 years is set to open up as an underwater museum.
Vivian Quarry in Gwynedd, once part of the world's second-largest slate mine, is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It's been quietly flooded for two decades, hiding old mining buildings, tools and even a circular blast shelter beneath 19 meters of water.
Soon, the historic site will be accessible to the public, where visitors as young as ten will be able to dive in and explore the ruins of the former quarry.
Following its closure in 1960, the quarry has been open to experienced divers for the past 12 years.
However, thanks to new technology developed by XPLOR Group, anyone - including complete beginners and kids - will be able explore the museum with no prior scuba training after a 10-minute safety briefing.
The diving centre, run by Scuba Scape, is opening up this summer and promises a 'world first' experience.
Speaking to North Wales Live, a spokesperson from Scuba Scape said: 'Our collaboration [with XPLOR Group] has led to the commercialisation of a unique underwater gaming programme and innovative technology.
'Over the past eight months, we have implemented intense safety procedures and conducted rigorous testing of every component in some of the harshest underwater conditions.'
In addition to its museum features, the site will also host a one-of-a-kind underwater escape room, allowing divers to participate in interactive games as they tour the remains of the quarry.
Bookings are expected to open soon on Scuba Scape's website, with tickets priced at £73.36.
It comes after a lesser-known theme park in the UK that costs just £13.95 to enter has been hailed one of the best in the world - and you can even bring your pooch along for the ride.
The Milky Way Adventure Park, located in North Devon, offers a mix of indoor and outdoor rides, shows, activities and play areas at a fraction of the cost of its big-name competitors.
The amusement park was first launched as a farm attraction in July 1984 by the Stanbury family, but it has since grown in size and popularity with around £2 million invested in new attractions and upgrades over recent years.
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