 STEP INSIDE WALES' INDUSTRIAL PASTJoin us here at Wales' longest established miners' museum in the beautiful setting of Afan Forest Country Park |  ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORSOur outdoor exhibits include a working Blacksmiths forge, Steam locomotive and winding engine. Perfect for visitors of any age. |  THE REIGN OF 'KING COAL'Our extensive collection will give your a taste of what life was like when 'King Coal' ruled South Wales. Everything from Pit Ponies to safety lamps. |  COULD YOU BE A MINER?Come and enjoy a tour from our volunteer ex-miners and find out what life underground was really like. |
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About South Wales Miners' Museum
South Wales Miners’ Museum is a registered charity (no. 1102321). Managed by a dedicated team of volunteers, SWMM aims to promote and preserve the industrial heritage of the beautiful Afan Valley.
The museum is made up of both indoor and outdoor exhibits, where you will find yourself being taken on a historical journey back in time.
The indoor museum portrays the working life of a miner and the hardship both adults and children had to endure.
Our outdoor exhibits then include a Blacksmith's Shop, Miners' Lamp Room and a working Engine House.
In 1970 The last pit in the Afan Valley closed. In 1972 a Public meeting took place in Glyncorrwg where a Miners’ Museum was proposed. The museum officially opened in 1976 and was the first mining museum in Wales. Shortly after opening the museum received the Prince of Wales Award, and then went on to win numerous other prestigious awards and recognition, including a place in the Valleys Essential Top Ten visitor attractions.
Originally housed in a number of cabins, funding was finally secured from numerous sources in 2008 to design and build a purpose built museum. A third of the interior refurbishment was carried out by volunteers
All admission charges and donations to SWMM go towards the running and maintenance of the museum