Mint & Mine Experience

Approximate Journey Time: 3 hrs 30 min

Time at destination: Approximately 5 hours across both destinations

There is a comfort stop on route

Your journey starts in the morning from the local area. The coach will travel to South Wales via the A34 and M4. You will arrive at approximately 11.00.

The Mint & Mine Experience in South Wales offers a unique day-long journey through two of the region’s most iconic attractions: The Royal Mint Experience and A Welsh Coal Mining Experience at Rhondda Heritage Park.

The Royal Mint Experience – Llantrisant - At The Royal Mint Experience, visitors delve into over 1,100 years of coin-making history. The guided factory tour provides an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how UK coins are made, including the opportunity to strike your own coin. Interactive exhibits showcase rare coins, historic artefacts, and innovations like “urban mining,” where precious metals are recovered from electronic waste. Guests can also try lifting a 400oz gold bar and explore coins from around the world.

A Welsh Coal Mining Experience – Rhondda Heritage Park - Just a short drive away, Rhondda Heritage Park immerses visitors in the life of coal miners in the Rhondda Valleys. Led by former miners, the Black Gold Underground Tour takes you through original colliery buildings and into the lamp room to begin your journey. The experience includes “DRAM!”—a simulated ride on a coal dram—and interactive exhibits that depict daily life in mining communities. The site also features Caffe Bracchi, inspired by Italian cafés of the early 20th century, and shops offering handmade chocolates and crafts.