A fantastic and groundbreaking development is set to take place in Wales, as an innovative underwater museum and escape room are planned to open in a Welsh quarry. This unique attraction, deemed a ‘world-first’, will be hosted at Vivian Quarry in Llanberis, Wales, making history by providing easy access for visitors, including children as young as 10. This project is set to showcase both thrilling adventures and Wales’ rich heritage to a global audience.
Vivian Quarry, situated on the outskirts of Eryri, is part of the vast Dinorwig slate complex, once a leading slate mine worldwide. Since its closure in 1960, the quarry has been flooded by rainfall and underwater springs, submerging historic buildings and mining equipment up to a depth of 19 metres. This submerged site now serves as a unique time capsule, preserving the remnants of an industry that significantly contributed to the global supply of roofing materials.
Experienced divers have been exploring the depths of Vivian Quarry for over a decade, uncovering its hidden treasures. Now, efforts are underway to open up this underwater world to visitors of all kinds, eliminating the need for specialised scuba diving knowledge. Phoenix Watersports, the diving operator at Vivian Quarry, has partnered with the XPLOR Group, leveraging their expertise in offshore technologies to create a one-of-a-kind underwater experience suitable for individuals as young as 10.
The inclusion of an escape room concept, titled ‘The Scuba Escape’, adds a new dimension to exploring the quarry’s depths. This immersive experience, initially introduced during the pandemic in 2021, challenges proficient scuba divers with various games designed to test their skills. The new attraction aims to provide a fresh and accessible way to discover the underwater marvels of Vivian Quarry, promising a unique adventure for visitors of all ages.
The major highlight of this project is the relocation and restoration of a 10-tonne winch machine at Vivian Quarry. Originally used for transporting slate blocks, this impressive machinery, which dates back to the 19th century, has been rescued and meticulously reassembled at its new location. The preservation of this historical structure serves as a testimony to the quarry’s industrial past, offering visitors a glimpse into the bygone era of slate mining in Wales.
The efforts to revitalise Vivian Quarry reflect a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Future plans include the expansion of the underwater museum to ensure full accessibility for all visitors. Through substantial capital investments and innovative technologies, the partners involved in this project aim to transform Vivian Quarry into a hub of adventure and innovation, preserving its historical significance while offering a truly unique experience for all who visit.
Excitement is mounting as preparations are underway for the opening of the underwater museum and escape room at Vivian Quarry. With a strategic location near Llanberis Lake Railway station and the National Slate Museum, visitors will have convenient access to this extraordinary site. The tranquil surroundings of the quarry, with its hidden gems both above and below the water’s surface, set the stage for an unforgettable experience that blends history, adventure, and innovation in a truly remarkable setting.
To stay updated on the latest developments and announcements regarding Vivian Quarry’s exciting new features, visitors are encouraged to visit the Scuba Scape website and join the mailing list for regular updates. The partners behind this ambitious project are gearing up to unveil a transformative experience that promises to captivate visitors and showcase the rich heritage of Wales on a global scale.
In conclusion, the upcoming opening of the underwater museum and escape room at Vivian Quarry marks a significant milestone in Wales’ tourism industry. By combining history, innovation, and adventure in a unique underwater setting, this project is poised to redefine visitor experiences and highlight the rich heritage of the region. As excitement builds for the unveiling of this ‘world-first’ attraction, visitors can look forward to embarking on a journey like no other, exploring the depths of Vivian Quarry and immersing themselves in a truly captivating experience.