China clay mining has shaped the landscape, lives of people and economy of mid-Cornwall for over 250 years. It is Cornwall’s largest mining industry.
A fully Accredited Museum, Wheal Martyn Clay Works is based within two Victorian china clay works, now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. They tell the story of this fascinating industry and the people who worked and lived in the shadows of Cornwall’s iconic ‘white pyramids’.
A visit might include: wandering around the interactive Discovery Centre, exploring historic trails, woodland walks in grounds teeming with wildlife, and spectacular views of a modern working clay pit.
Their collections include working waterwheels, tools and machinery, vintage lorries and an extensive archive.