02-05-2025
'Abandoned' quarry in Wales boasts beautiful walks and is 'frozen in time'
'Abandoned' quarry in Wales boasts beautiful walks and is 'frozen in time'
The Dorothea Quarry is a disused slate quarry in the Nantlle Valley area in North Wales, and people have been flocking to the area to check out the beautiful walking path
Looking across the disused Dorothea Slate Quarry to Snowdon, Nantlle, Gwynedd (stock image)
(Image: FatManPhotoUK via Getty Images )
Travellers are marvelling over a hidden gem in Wales that's been "abandoned", showcasing spectacular views and a sense of being "frozen in time". Its charm and allure were highlighted in a recent online clip that captured its stunning scenery.
Visitors have described the spot as "beautiful" on TikTok, enchanted by its almost mystical quality. The picturesque scenes look so perfect, they could be straight out of a fairy-tale film set.
The Dorothea quarry, now a quiet slate quarry nestled in North Wales' Nantlle Valley, unfolds across a significant expanse in Talysarn village and boasts three majestic flooded lakes.
Quarry operations kicked off in the 1820s, with hints of activity even before then. In around 1829, William Turner took a lease on the site, initially calling it Cloddfa Turner.
By the 1830s, it was generating profits near £2,000 annually - the modern equivalent of roughly £186,792 as of 2016. Following a managerial handover to Turner's son, the site underwent a rebranding as Dorothea, purportedly named after Richard Garnons' wife, who owned the land.
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The quarry's fortunes waned in the 1840s, culminating in a sale attempt in April 1848, despite decades remaining on its lease. Since ceasing operations in 1970, the quarry has been flooded and morphed into a place of interest - even though diving is prohibited and there are no visitor conveniences on-site.
Nonetheless, it retains an aura of fascination for those exploring the area. Visitors can relish a tranquil two-mile amble around the remnants of the disused quarry.
On your visit, you'll encounter numerous historical structures, intriguing tunnels and a Cornish Beam Engine awaiting exploration. Caution is advised when approaching the waterlogged edges of the quarry, particularly for those accompanied by canine companions.
The journey is relatively straightforward provided you're equipped with sturdy walking footwear. The path is generally firm, yet one should be wary of the numerous water-filled potholes dotting the route.
You might also encounter some stray sheep around the grazing lands. On All Trail, the walk has received high praise, with many recommending a visit to the area.
The walking trail has been dubbed "beautiful" (stock image)
(Image: Getty Images )
One user commented: "Incredibly beautiful walk, easy for kids but not pram friendly. Took longer than the recommended time because there were so many little side quests if you went off the main trail."
Another person remarked: "Just beautiful. Easy under foot for most part and easy to follow!" A third offered advice: "Great trail. Not clear where to start as there aren't any sign posts from the road.
"However, if you park up where the roundabout is and walk down, you'll see a map and route options. Great hidden gem!"
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A fourth added their thoughts, saying: "Amazing views and historical backdrop. While the route is clearly marked, some of the most intriguing spots lie just off the beaten path.
"If you're a history enthusiast, a bit of pre-visit reading about the quarry can really enhance your experience. Be prepared for muddy patches."
