Exploring Dinorwig Slate Quarry on the last photography workshop of 2025

6 Oct

Nestled high above Llanberis in North Wales, the Dinorwig Slate Quarry is a hauntingly beautiful remnant of the region’s industrial past. Once the second-largest slate quarry in the world, Dinorwig operated from the late 18th century until its closure in 1969. At its peak, it employed over 3,000 men and exported slate across the globe, shaping not only the landscape but also the communities around it.

Today, the site is a photographer’s dream — a vast, atmospheric space where nature and history collide. The crumbling remains of engine houses, rusting machinery, and abandoned workers’ barracks are scattered across terraced levels carved into the mountain, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Snowdonia’s peaks.

One of Dinorwig’s increasingly popular locations with photographers is the hidden waterfall in the lower levels of the quarry. Surrounded by moss-covered rock and old slate walls, it offers a magical spot for long-exposure shots, especially in low light. Finding it takes a bit of exploration but the reward is well worth the effort.

A photography workshop here is an opportunity to explore contrasting textures and tones: the sharp edges of slate, the soft Welsh mist, and the moody skies that often roll in from the sea. Iconic shots include the towering incline tracks, rusting chains, and panoramic views over Llyn Padarn. Wildlife, too, makes an appearance — with ravens, goats, and even peregrine falcons often spotted in the quarry’s quieter corners.

Dinorwig isn’t just a place to take photos — it’s a place to connect with a forgotten past and capture its rugged beauty through your lens. For anyone with a love of landscape and industrial decay, it’s an unforgettable location. If you’d like to explore this area with guidance from a local expert then join one of North Wales photographer, Simon Kitchin’s workshops.