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Killhope Lead Mining Museum

National Museum & Exhibition · County Durham, England · Near Cowshill, Upper Weardale, DL13 1AR

Killhope Lead Mining Museum is a national museum & exhibition in County Durham, England. See prices, opening times, the best days to avoid the crowds, parking and food, with every detail dated so you know how fresh it is.

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PriceAdult £12.95 · Child £4.95 · Family £35.80
The official site says reopening has been postponed after a safety issue with the reservoirs that feed the water wheel, while Visit County Durham listed a 1 May 2026 reopening. Phone 03000 260 253 before travelling. Guide prices: adult £12.95, child £4.95, under-4s free (under-4s can't go down the mine).
Opening times1 May-31 December 2026: Wednesday-Saturday (closed Monday and Tuesday); check daily hours before travelling.
Best time to goSeasonal; dry days.
School holiday tipEarly July is the sweet spot for Scottish families: English/Welsh schools stay in until about 20-23 July. Late August is the English/Welsh peak, so choose Tue-Thu and arrive at opening. Indoor venue: wet half-term days cause surges; check the forecast.
Best agesMost suit about 5-12; free places suit short visits with younger children
Mine tour not for under-4s; best for 5+.
If it rainsMostly indoors: wet days tend to be busiest
FoodCafé and shop on site; picnic areas.
Money saverMany are free, so budget for parking and food only; go for 2 hours, not all day.
Top tipsLead mining museum with a giant waterwheel and underground mine visit.
What to packSnacks, water bottle, pram or carrier, wipes

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