Display:The Blacksmith at The Forge, Cei Llechi, Caernarfon

The National Slate Museum is currently closed for a major redevelopment project. While conservation and construction work take place at the Museum, we’re taking our people, our collections and our stories to partner locations at the heart of the slate story. 

Our Blacksmith has relocated to the historic Forge (Yr Efail) at Cei Llechi (Slate Quay) in Caernarfon. 

Come and see him displaying his craft and talking about his work, and perhaps pick up an unique handmade gift or two in craft shop. 

Usual opening times for The Forge will be Tuesday - Friday and every other Saturday. 

However there may be additional days and times when the blacksmith is unavailable - therefore specific opening times for the coming months are: 

April 2026:    21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30  

May 2026:   4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 22 

June 2026:   1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30  

*If you would like to know if the Forge will be open later in the year please email: slate@museumwales.ac.uk

Find out more about the forge and its amazing history here

Museum on the Move! 

Here at other places where you can come and visit us whilst the main Museum is closed! 

• Penrhyn Castle, Llandygai, Bangor: Our slate quarrymen have taken up residence at the mighty Penrhyn Castle! Marvel at a slate splitting demonstration and learn more about why their being at the castle is so momentous. 

• Quarry Hospital, Parc Padarn, Llanberis: Find out more about the amazing history of this building, the medicine of the area and why the slate industry needed a Hospital!

• The Collections Centre: Join us for a free tour of the Collection Centre, where the National Slate Museum objects are safely stored whilst the museum is closed for redevelopment. Book a visit here.