Welcome to Purbeck Mining Museum
Purbeck Mining Museum is now closed for winter maintenance.
14 and 15 February 2026: as part of Swanage Railway’s Community Weekend, the museum will be partially open with the engine shed open, some static exhibits available for viewing, and a chance to chat with former miner Brian Biles. 11:00 – 16:00, last entry 15:30.
A few Engine Shed experiences are available. Please book via the Swanage Railway website
Detailed opening dates and days for the rest of 2026 will be posted our Visit Us page in due course.
See also our Events page for special event information.
Purbeck Mining Museum
The Purbeck Mining Museum is dedicated to the history and heritage of Purbeck Ball Clay mining and its industrial narrow gauge railways.
Visit us to find out more about the history of clay mining in Purbeck and learn about the experience of miners and their families. You can also experience what it was like inside a typical Purbeck clay mine. Visit us to view the underground tunnel.
Entry is FREE. Please consider a donation of at least £3 for each adult visitor, this will help us to care for, explore and celebrate your heritage. Donations in cash or by contactless payment are welcome.
Please Gift Aid your donation, thank you.
Children’s activities
Children’s activity trail – follow the clues to be a Clay Mine Super Sleuth. Suitable for ages 9 – 13.
Count the Norden Nippers – how many of our little mining friends can you find hidden in the museum? Suitable for all ages.
Opening days and times
If there are any changes, we’ll post them on our Facebook page.
Find us at Purbeck Park, near Corfe Castle, Dorset. We are just above Norden Station on the Swanage Railway. Our postcode is BH20 5DW. What3words ///yelled.correct.evening
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