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Hafna Lead Mine

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Mountain, Valley

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Peter Bond via Geograph.org.uk

Hafna is a ruined lead and zinc mine in the Gwydir Forest, in the hills near Llanrwst in north Wales, worked through the 1800s and into the early 1900s. Beside the forest road stand the remains of the old mill with its tall chimney, with capped shafts, spoil heaps and the shells of mine buildings sc...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

6 day, 4 overnight

The Eagles Hotel​, La Barrica​, Scilicorn's Bakery​

Dwyryd Cottage, Llanrwst Cottage, Glan Aber 1890

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Hafna Lead Mine?
Gwydir Forest holds this industrial site deep within its heavily wooded slopes in North Wales. Walkers discover the crumbling stone structures emerging from the dense canopy near Betws-y-Coed.

What type of place is Hafna Lead Mine?
Hafna Lead Mine is a well-preserved historic mining complex in the Gwydir Forest of North Wales.

When is the best time to visit Hafna Lead Mine?
Damp autumn afternoons provide the most atmospheric experience because the heavy mist hangs low between the conifers and dark stone walls. Spring through to autumn generally brings the most reliable weather for exploring the forest paths.

What can you do at Hafna Lead Mine?
People follow the old tramway routes where workers once hauled heavy wooden carts filled with raw ore. Footpaths track straight through the ferns, revealing deep vertical shafts and dark drainage adits cut into the solid rock face.

How long should I spend at Hafna Lead Mine?
Spending around two hours allows enough time to wander through the ruins and read the informative panels along the trail. Anyone wanting to tackle the full circular walk should allow a bit longer.

Where do I park at Hafna Lead Mine?
Vehicles can use the ten spaces available at the nearby car park, providing six day and four overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Hafna Lead Mine?
The Eagles Hotel, La Barrica, and Scilicorn's Bakery offer three options for a meal or snack nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Hafna Lead Mine?
Dwyryd Cottage, Llanrwst Cottage, and Glan Aber 1890 supply three nearby places to book for an overnight visit. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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