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Santa Underground Experience
Wakefield
Journey 140m underground with an ex-miner.
About
Embark on a unique Santa Underground experience at the National Coal Mining Museum for England. Journey 140 meters below ground with an ex-miner guide to discover the history of coal mining and its impact. While surface visits are free, a suggested donation applies to the immersive underground tours, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Educational experiences, families, history enthusiasts
Vibe
Historic, immersive, educational
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Low (Free Museum Entry, Optional Tour Donation)
Photo Friendly
Moderate (check specific rules for underground areas)
Weather Sensitivity
Low (primarily indoors, but outdoor areas exist)
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Admission to the Museum is FREE. Suggested donation for underground tours: £7.50
Duration
Varies, tours are timed
Ages
All ages welcome for surface visits. Underground tours have specific accessibility considerations.
Schedule
The Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday 9.45am – 5pm. Underground Tours are unavailable until Sunday 12 October due to industrial action.
Organizer
National Coal Mining Museum for England
Practical Information
Parking
Ample car and coach parking including disabled parking space and parent and child spaces. Parking is free though donations are appreciated, and there are times throughout the year (summer holidays and special events) where there will be a charge.
Accessibility
https://www.ncm.org.uk/accessibility/
Pet Policy
Dogs are welcome on a lead in the outdoor grounds of the Museum. Only Assistance/Service dogs are permitted indoors. Guide dogs and assistance dogs are not permitted underground.
Food & Drink
Café available on-site.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your underground tour in advance, especially during peak times, and arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour to check in at reception.
- Be prepared for the underground environment: it can be dark, dusty, and enclosed, with a jolting 'cage' ride. Inform reception of any accessibility needs or concerns beforehand.
- While surface visits are free, consider the suggested donation for the underground tour to support the museum's operations and preservation efforts.
- Service animals are welcome indoors and on the surface, but are not permitted underground. Electric wheelchairs cannot be used underground; visitors may transfer to a hand-propelled wheelchair.
- Explore the museum's surface attractions, including the Pony Discovery Centre and Miners' Memorial Garden, which are accessible to all visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the suggested donation for the Underground Tour?
A suggested donation of £7.50 per person is requested for the Underground Tour. You receive a miner's 'check' and can choose to keep it as a souvenir or return it.
Do I need to book the Underground Tour in advance?
It is highly recommended to pre-book the Underground Tour, especially for weekends and school holidays, as tours are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. You must report to reception upon arrival even with a pre-booked ticket.
What are the accessibility options for the Underground Tour?
Visitors requiring wheelchair access must call ahead to pre-book. Electric wheelchairs are not permitted underground; visitors can transfer to a hand-propelled wheelchair. All wheelchair users must sign an evacuation disclaimer.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs on a lead are welcome in the outdoor grounds. Only assistance/service dogs are permitted indoors. Pets are not allowed on the Underground Tour.
What should I expect during the Underground Tour?
The tour involves descending 140 meters into a real coal mine. Expect tight spaces, darkness (lights are turned off briefly), dust, and a potentially noisy 'cage' ride. It may be overwhelming for those sensitive to enclosed or dark environments.