Carnyorth Education Centre

Carnyorth Education Centre, part of Aspire Outdoors, is located approximately one mile south of Pendeen and six miles northwest of Penzance in west Cornwall.

Carnyorth sits at the epicentre of Cornwall’s rich industrial past – the St Just Mining District, a World Heritage Site since 2006 - and is surrounded by rich, geographical opportunities for learning, from the natural wonders of the moorlands to the rugged, geological beauty of the coast. 

Within walking distance of the centre, sitting right on the Tin Coast, is Geevor Tin Mine, the last mine to work the famous St Just Mining District and the site of the largest number of undersea tin and copper mines in the world.  Their award-winning learning team offers hand-drilling and rock-crushing sessions, a tour of the processing mill, an underground tour of the mine and some panning for minerals – as well as a selection of primary workshops. An Aspire Local History Study Pack, aimed at Year 3 and Year 4, will be made available on request.

The centre offers two large dormitories each comprising sixteen beds, plus two smaller leaders’ rooms comprising four bunk beds and two bunk beds respectively. 

There is a fully equipped kitchen, dining room and large central multi-purpose room.  Outside is a grassed play space and firepit area.  

The centre is open all year round for residential visits, day visits or training activities. Integral to the activities on offer is an emphasis on recognition, protection and ultimately appreciation of the natural environment.

Current activities include: hiking trails/coastal footpaths; Geevor Tin Mine workshops; Bush Craft; shelter building; orienteering; natural art; flint & fire; geocaching; mountain biking*; archery*; (*depends on appropriate qualifications/skill level of staff)

Bespoke planning sessions between schools and the centre leader are offered to ensure chosen activities fit with curriculum needs.