Penmaenmawr Quarries in Wales boast a history as rich and compelling as the stone they produce. Here, nestled between Conwy and Llanfairfechan, evidence suggests quarrying activity dates back to the Neolithic period, with archaeologists finding granite axe-heads and tools crafted from Penmaenmawr stone scattered across Britain.

Fast forward to the 1830s, and the industrial revolution spurred a demand for a reliable source of hard-wearing stone. Enter the Penmaenmawr & Welsh Granite Co., who began large-scale quarrying operations. Their target: granite setts, perfect for paving the ever-expanding streets of Britain's towns and cities.

Innovation played a key role in the quarry's success. Self-acting inclines (clever gravity-powered railways) transported the granite down to a narrow gauge tramway that snaked its way to waiting ships at the jetties. But the arrival of the standard gauge railway in 1848 revolutionized transportation, allowing for even more efficient granite haulage.

Throughout the 19th century, the quarry thrived, its narrow gauge railway becoming a vital part of its internal network. The 20th century saw a shift, with trucks replacing the charming railway system in the 1960s. However, quarrying continues to this day, with the extracted rock – not quite granite but a close relative called diorite – used in a variety of construction projects.

Penmaenmawr Quarries stand as a testament to human ingenuity and the ever-evolving relationship between humankind and the natural world. From prehistoric tools to modern buildings, the stone from Penmaenmawr has left its mark on Britain's landscape and history.

Drone Video of Penmaenmawr from Llanfairfechan