A unique pair of attractions, an underwater museum and an escape room, are set to open in the historic Vivian Quarry in Llanberis, Gwynedd. In a first for the world, these experiences will be accessible to a wide audience, with even children as young as 10 being able to participate after a short safety introduction.
The new attractions result from an ambitious project at Vivian Quarry, located on the edge of Snowdonia National Park. The quarry, once part of the vast Dinorwig slate complex, was the second-largest slate mine in the world. It’s now filled with 19 metres of water, which has submerged old buildings, machinery, and even relics from a bygone era. This natural "time capsule" offers a unique glimpse into an industry that once supplied the slate that roofed much of the world.
The innovative underwater experiences will be powered by the latest technology, enabling visitors to explore the quarry's depths without needing specialist scuba diving skills. This project combines adventure with education, offering a new way to experience Welsh heritage. The venture has been developed by Scuba Scape, a diving operations company rebranded from Phoenix Watersports, in partnership with the XPLOR Group, a consultancy with expertise in offshore and deep-water technologies.
The quarry’s unique appeal is strengthened by its industrial history. A large winch machine, which once moved slate blocks around the quarry, has been rescued and relocated to the site. Weighing over 10 tonnes, the machine is a remarkable example of Victorian engineering, and its relocation posed a significant challenge. It took a team of specialists 14 hours to carefully disassemble and move the machine from its original location under a collapsed roof, preserving its historic components.
Scuba Scape’s owners, Leanne and Clare Clowes, along with the XPLOR team, have worked extensively to ensure the safety and accessibility of the attractions. Due to the new technology, visitors as young as 10 can dive into the quarry after a brief safety briefing. The goal is not only to create an exciting experience but also to make it accessible to as many people as possible, with plans to further expand accessibility.
Vivian Quarry is already a popular spot for divers, but this new initiative aims to bring the site to a broader audience. In addition to the underwater museum, the site will feature an escape room concept, which was first introduced in 2021. Unlike the previous version, which required scuba diving skills, this new escape room will offer an entirely different way to explore the quarry without any need for specialised training.
The quarry’s picturesque surroundings, including a tree-lined lake and submerged curiosities like a miniature submarine and a gnome garden, will add to the immersive experience. The site also has a rich history tied to the slate industry, and the new developments are expected to shine a spotlight on this heritage, attracting visitors from across the globe.
As the first of its kind, this project will redefine adventure tourism in the UK and bring new life to a historic industrial site. The combination of history, technology, and innovation promises to make Vivian Quarry a must-visit destination in North Wales.
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