This is an incredible piece of Cornish industrial history. Once a copper and tin mine, the ruined buildings offer a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall's past. Now overtaken by ivy and moss, it is hard to imagine the dangerous and dirty work that would have been happening here.

The mines here dug into the Great Flat Lode, now a waymarked cycling trail, named after the mineral rich body of rock south of Carn Brea.

Bethan Owens

September 11, 2023

Cycling

South Wheal Frances was originally a copper mine in the 1820s, before becoming a tin mine from the 1850s. The mine was active until 1918. The structures are relatively well preserved, including the remains of the engine house which contained an unusual inverted vertical beam engine.

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Nearby routes

Best routes near South Wheal Francis mine ruins

4.8

(11)

riders

1. Poldice Valley, Carn Marth and South Wheal Frances loop from St Stithians Lake

33.3km

02:32

460m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(1)

riders

2. Carn Brea, the Great Flat Lode Trail & Tehidy Woods loop from Portreath

70.4km

04:56

910m

This challenging 43.8-mile mountain bike loop from Portreath explores Cornwall's mining heritage, Carn Brea's views, and Tehidy Woods.

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Hard

4.6

(10)

riders

3. Carn Brea Trail – South Wheal Francis mine ruins loop from Redruth

19.0km

01:14

240m

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 180 m

Weather

Today

Friday 13 March

8°C

5°C

66 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Carn Brea, South West England, England, United Kingdom

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Carn Brea Castle

Porthtowan Beach

Carn Brea Trail

Great Flat Lode Mineral Trail

Porthcadjack Cove and Waterfall

View of Portreath

Hick's Quarry

Poldice Mine Loop Stone Marker

South Wheal Francis mine ruins

1. Poldice Valley, Carn Marth and South Wheal Frances loop from St Stithians Lake

2. Carn Brea, the Great Flat Lode Trail & Tehidy Woods loop from Portreath

3. Carn Brea Trail – South Wheal Francis mine ruins loop from Redruth

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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