Levant Mine and Beam Engine

Levant Mine and Beam Engine sits on the cliffs of Cornwall's Tin Coast near St Just, part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, where tin was mined above the Atlantic. Its 1840 beam engine is the last still steaming in Cornwall, and the Man Engine Tunnel leads to the shaft where 31 miners died in the disaster of 1919. After storm damage the site is currently open only for pre-booked guided tours, so book before travelling. Tours last about an hour and a half and take in the engine house, with the engine in steam, and the underground Man Engine Tunnel, whose curved staircase has no handrail. Reviewers praise the engaging, knowledgeable guides and rate the engine at work as the highlight; most add a wander round the ruins and along the coast path, where a 3.7-mile walk runs on to Botallack. Tips from visitors: parking is free at Geevor Mine, wear proper footwear for the uneven, steep ground, and only assistance dogs join tours.