**”World Heritage Site ‘Trashed’ by Instagram-Seeking Visitors”**
Dinorwig Quarry, a World Heritage Site located in Eryri, has been recently subjected to damage and littering by visitors flocking to the area for the sake of Instagram pictures. The site, which holds significant industrial heritage as a former slate extraction hub over two centuries, is now facing the threat of closure to the public due to increased incidents of vandalism and littering.
Regular visitors to Dinorwig Quarry have expressed their dismay over the widespread litter left behind by tourists who fail to respect the site’s historical significance. The once awe-inspiring quarry, which showcases the efforts of those who shaped the landscape on the outskirts of Eryri, is now marred by instances of theft and littering, causing distress among those who hold the site dear to their hearts.
Various areas within the quarry have been affected, with broken glass bottles strewn near Dinorwig’s Anglesey Barracks and damage to old iron ladders and chains along the Snakes and Ladders route – a challenging path in the quarry. Even the remnants of a mine railway have been deteriorating due to visitor activities like posing for photos, resembling scenes from adventure movies.
Adding to the degradation, abandoned buildings such as the Pen Garrett Caban now serve as shelters for wildlife but are plagued with litter and vandalism. Alan Jones from Pwllheli, who has a deep connection to the mining heritage of the area, expressed his disappointment at the state of the iconic Caban that he once visited as a child. The neglect and damage inflicted on such historically significant sites have left many like Alan disheartened about revisiting Dinorwig Quarry.
Dinorwig, with its more than 30 galleries and eerie ruins like dry stone monoliths and semi-ruined buildings, has attracted tourists seeking a glimpse into its industrial past. The quarry’s designation as part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site has only heightened its popularity, notably after featuring in HBO’s House of the Dragon series, which showcases it as a battleground.
The rise of “Insta-based geo-bragging” – a trend where individuals flaunt their adventures online – has been cited as a leading factor in the deterioration of the quarry. Visitors often disregard the site’s regulations in pursuit of replicating picturesque shots seen on social media, leading to increased littering and damage to the surroundings. Responding to this concerning trend, long-time visitors emphasise the importance of responsible tourism and urge others to leave the site as they found it.
Despite efforts to maintain the integrity of Dinorwig Quarry, instances of vandalism and littering continue to threaten its historical value. As the site remains privately owned in many areas and off-limits to the public, concerns persist about the future of this iconic World Heritage Site. Unless visitors exercise greater respect and responsibility while visiting Dinorwig, the site’s closure may become an inevitable consequence of ongoing neglect and disregard for its heritage significance.