Geosite
Experience a 45 minute skipper guided tour into the underground limestone mines into Shirts Mill Basin, Castle Mill Basin and finally into the famous Singing Cavern where a light spectacular and sound show will appear.
An audio-visual display will also take place along the journey to inform you about the mining heritage and geology of the mines. Singing Cavern was last mined in the early 19th century. The canal extended for 330 yards from Rock Tunnel but the cavern itself, with a tramway along it, ended up near the centre of Dudley. Over the years the cavern has collapsed and approximately 100 yards of cavern is all that remains today. Seven limestone pillars support the roof, each weighing 300 tons and two loading shafts.
The new Portal building – a learning and education hub has everything you need to make your visit a great day out.
Explore the Biffa Award Gallery and discover an interactive exhibition that will whet your appetite for heading underground into the caverns. This exhibition is free and you’re welcome to have a look around whether you’re visiting for a boat trip or not. Families with young children or people who are familiar with Makaton symbols and signs might enjoy the free trail which can be downloaded and printed from our website at no charge.
Dine in style in The Gongoozler Restaurant a canal-side food and drink space. Enjoy a full meal or just a snack and a drink in the inside space or outside on the balcony overlooking the canal and tunnel entrance.
Find unique arts, crafts and canal ware in our gift shop, featuring souvenirs of your day alongside handmade wares and gifts.
Outside you can explore a free Limestone Discovery Trail with your family to discover all about limestone, the product of the mines. You can also take advantage of the car parking, toilets and accessible lift to access the canal towpath and new swing bridge.
Geosite facilities
There is the Gongoozler Restaurant on site, toilet facilities, a gift shop, and the Portal building, a learning and educational hub. Visiting the Portal building is free of charge and you don’t need a ticket for boat trips to come and see they do. Come along any time 10am – 5pm seven days a week!
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