The Museum of Lead Mining
The only Underground Mine Tour in Scotland
Discover the history surrounding Wanlockhead village, Lochnell Mine and the stories of the people who lived and worked here.
The team at the Museum of Lead Mining are looking forward to welcoming you during the 2026 season!
This year we are delighted to celebrate the 270th Anniversary of the Miners’ Library. The team has been busy redesigning the museum displays while the doors have been shut over the winter.
The museum re-opens on Saturday, 14th March. We will be open Wednesday through til Sunday, 11am – 3pm, each week until June when opening hours will be extended. The museum will be open for longer over Easter. Friday 3rd April, until and including Monday 6th April, we will be open from 10am until 4pm. Guided tours will be available at 11-30 and 13-00. Gold panning taster sessions can be booked at Reception when you arrive.
In addition the museum will be open on Bank Holiday Mondays May 4th and May 25th. between 10am and 4pm.
Please see ‘Visit’ for full details and check ‘News’ for updates throughout the year.
We are fundraising to keep the story of the Scottish lead miners alive into the next 50 years and beyond. So much more to share!
Panning for Wanlockhead Gold
Gold can be found in many areas of Scotland and particularly in the Lowther Hills around Wanlockhead and Leadhills where gold panning has been popular for centuries.
Forthcoming Events
Looking for a day out with a difference?
Look no further – we are a 4 Star Visit Scotland Attraction. Only 8 miles from the M74, The Museum of Lead Mining in Wanlockhead sits amidst the Lowther Hills, directly on the Southern Upland Way. The Museum is run by a not-for-profit charity run by a Board of Trustees dedicated to preserving the rich mining and social heritage and history of the area. Discover our 18th century lead mine where you will experience the thrill of going on the only underground lead mine tour in Scotland. Take a glimpse into the past by visiting the miners’ cottages and see how the miners and their families lived during the periods of 1750, 1850 & 1920.
