Britannia Mine MuseumBritannia Mine Museum

The Britannia Mine Museum site itself is an exhibit - from historical machinery to heritage buildings, there is plenty to see and do. From mucking machines, to ore carts and our working Lime Tank, explore some of the equipment that once made Britannia great. Permanent exhibits offer an insight into the social history of the Britannia Mines and mining history of BC. The 1908 Machine Shop is also home to a number of historic pieces of equipment, from a restored ambulance car to the man car that squeezed sixteen miners into a space about the size of a small family car. Take a trip similar to miners in 1914: climb aboard the mine train and chug into this early haulage tunnel. Inside, tour guides describe early mining efforts with actual working drills and a mucking machine. Make a point of panning for gold. You find it, you keep it! Everyone can take part. Gold-panning troughs are set at different heights for both young and old to dip in and try their luck. This is gold panning the fun and easy way (the water is heated for you). Family fun is a high priority at the museum, so youngsters can enjoy a break in the giant sand pit or take the helm of the playground boat. The play area is right beside a snack bar with washrooms nearby.--