Welcome to Morwellham Quay

Keeping the past alive for everyone to enjoy

An award-winning, evocative museum and visitor centre in the heart of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site and Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.    Just four miles west of Tavistock the historic port, mine workings and Estate, border the beautiful River Tamar. Amidst towering cliffs and gently rolling farmland, a lost world lives again.

Costumed staff welcome visitors to the restored port and help to transport you back to the bustling 1860s when heaps of gleaming copper ore filled the quays and a forest of ships' masts lined the river. All human life is here as you explore the assay office, step inside the over-crowded miners' cottages and stroll along original quaysides and docks.

There's also an opportunity for you to play your part! Authentic replica costumes are available for you to try on, while the children find out what life was really like working on the "dressing-floors" of the mine or acting as servants in the "Sampler’s House".

For many, a highlight of the visit is the narrow-guage Mine Railway.  Travel by train along the banks of the River Tamar before venturing deep underground in the George & Charlotte copper mine. Here, in their real abandoned workplaces, displays illustrate the harsh working conditions of Victorian miners and our train drivers offer an expert commentary on the technical aspects of hard rock mining.

By way of contrast the Victorian farm and nature reserve offer you the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of 21st century life as you wander through the tranquil countryside with only the wildlife for company. And when you’re hungry, or thirsty, the Ship Inn caters for every taste under the guidance of local celebrity chef Peter Gorton. 

Whether you've an interest in Cornish mining, Victorian history, shipping in the age of sail, cottage gardens, reed-beds, old farm machinery, or if you simply want a continually stimulating and entertaining day out, Morwellham Quay is the place to visit:  There’s 200 acres for you to enjoy!