Allihies Copper Mine Museum

The Allihies Copper Mine Museum is a local heritage museum in the village of Allihies on the Beara Peninsula in County Cork, Ireland, housed in a restored 1845 Methodist chapel originally built for Cornish miners. It tells the story of copper mining in the area from prehistoric times through its peak in the 19th century, featuring exhibits on geology, mining techniques, tools, machinery, and the social history of the mining community, with nearby walking trails leading to preserved mine ruins and engine houses along the dramatic Atlantic coastline. When the Allihies copper mines declined and closed in the late 19th century, many skilled Irish miners left in search of work and a significant number migrated to Butte, Montana which was then one of the world’s largest and richest copper-mining centres. Former Allihies miners brought their expertise to the Anaconda copper mines, helping shape Butte’s mining industry and Irish community. Admission fee. Parking on site. The site includes the Copper Café, art exhibitions, a shop, and outdoor seating with views of Ballydonegan Beach. Well presented information on the mine and the connection with Butte, Montana.

Didn't actually visit the museum just went in for lunch. The cafe is excellent. I did walk many of the mining trails and the information plaques were very good.

Been to his wonderful museum before and only came back for the outstanding cake in the cafe, but it's a cool day so fish chowder seemed a better option. Good size portions full of large chunks of Salmon, Cod & smoked Haddock served with thick sliced seeded bread, all delicious. Staff warm and welcoming, Venue very clean and tidy 😀 We'll be back.

Wonderful industrial heritage experience and fantastic hill and coastal walking with majestic vistas. Would be perfect if walks had regularly spaced vertically mounted glass interpretative panels with sketches or line drawings showing original mine buildings set in what are now fields.

It's a lovely wee cafe but the service was soooo slow. I actually left went to my van and made myself a sandwich. If you're not hungry and have plenty of time it might be fine

Beautiful location, delicious food and great service. The €7.00 for the museum was seriously overpriced. Interesting but small and not worth it

A small but interesting museum on the Beara peninsula. Excellent place to stop and get refreshments if touring the peninsula. Great food and service.

A small but very interesting museum about the history of the Allihies copper mines. There is a little cafeteria but at the beginning of the tourist season (begin April) it was not open yet. Friendly staff. Little souvenirs and book shop. Adults pay € 6,- income which is a fare price. All explanations in English but I forgot to ask if other languages are available.