Purbeck Mining Museum — Attraction in Corfe Castle

If you're into industrial heritage, this is a little gem. In the middle of a tourist area is a fascinating local industry that continues to this day, and this museum gives an insight into the development of clay mining in the Purbeck area. I was fortunate to arrive as the museum was being unlocked for the day, and had the opportunity to chat with the very knowledgeable gentleman who was manning the museum for the day. It adjoins the Norden Station on the Swanage Railway, which also acts as park and ride for Swanage. Next visit I shall take my walking boots and an OS maps to get some info on where to walk to find the old railway lines that served the industry. Entry is free, but there i a suggested donation of just £2 per visit. To those who appreciate our industrial heritage, it's worth...

It was very interesting especially as I am a retired coal miner, the exhibits on the serfice were really interesting as most are original, entering the mine there are a lot of artifacts that were actually used under ground I know this because I knew what they were and what they were used for from lamps up to rope haulage engines going down the drift (mock up) was just like the real thing just cleaner and nothing lying all over the floor, when you get to the bottom there are items placed as they would be under ground along with sounds and film, I would recommend that you visit the museum its very informative and hands on plus the staff are very welcoming...

Great museum with lots of informational content and interactive displays to provide an engaging time for all! The guide at the entrance was friendly, helpful and gave us lots of information to set the context and engage my kids (aged 9 and 13).

We went on a family day trip to Corfe castle on the steam train to Norden (there is also a big car park at Norden next to the museum). Norden station is at the end of the trainline and the museum is conveniently located just behind the station and a 20-30 minute scenic walk away from corfe castle.

Definitely recommend as a great addition to a trip to Norden and/or...