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Dorothea Quarry

Quarry

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Lakeside, Valley, Cliffs

Walking, Photography

Summer

Traveler100 / CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Dorothea Quarry is a large abandoned slate quarry in the Nantlle Valley in north Wales, its deep pits now flooded with clear, cold water. Ruined buildings stand among the workings, including the tall stone house of an old Cornish beam engine that once pumped the quarry dry. The flooded pits draw div...

7

Parking nearby

2

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 day, 4 overnight

The Snowdonia Parc Inn, Waunfawr​, The Cwellyn Arms – Rhyd Ddu

Nantlle Cosy Cottage, Famau Cabins, Snowdonia Mawddach Escape

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Dorothea Quarry?
North Wales hosts this industrial gem within the scenic Nantlle Valley area. Finding it involves a short journey outside Bedgellert near Talysarn village.

What type of place is Dorothea Quarry?
Dorothea Quarry is an abandoned slate quarry in the Nantlle Valley in North Wales.

When is the best time to visit Dorothea Quarry?
Summer brings the safest weather for exploring these rugged slate paths and flooded pits. Clearer days in these warmer months provide much better visibility for seeing the massive stone structures.

What can you do at Dorothea Quarry?
Walking along the old trails allows you to discover roofless engine houses and dramatic rock faces. Photographers find endless inspiration in the way nature slowly reclaims the rusted machinery and old barracks.

How long should I spend at Dorothea Quarry?
A couple of hours provides enough time to see the main historic buildings and deep pools safely. Serious walkers can easily extend their stay by completing the full circular track around the site.

Where do I park at Dorothea Quarry?
Vehicles can use seven spaces close by, offering three day and four overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Dorothea Quarry?
The Snowdonia Parc Inn in Waunfawr and The Cwellyn Arms in Rhyd Ddu represent two dining establishments serving food nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Dorothea Quarry?
Nantlle Cosy Cottage, Famau Cabins, and Snowdonia Mawddach Escape provide three choices for an overnight stay in the local area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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