Tankardstown Copper Mine Engine House Ruins, located along the spectacular Copper Coast near Bunmahon in County Waterford, stand as a powerful reminder of Ireland’s industrial and geological legacy. Built in 1824, this complex was part of one of the main mining sites operated by the Mining Company of Ireland, which actively extracted copper ores throughout the 19th century. Tankardstown’s peak production years spanned 1850 to 1879, contributing significantly to the prosperity of the Copper Coast, a region now recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

The remaining structures—the winding engine house, boiler house, chimney stack, and winding drum pit—once housed the steam-powered machinery that operated the mine’s vertical shafts. The site still reveals parts of the engine foundations, walls, and stone windows that overlook the steep Atlantic cliffs and rocky shores, creating one of the most striking industrial landscapes in Ireland. Mining operations ceased in 1877, leaving behind hauntingly beautiful ruins open to the sea winds and the echoes of the past.

Geologically, Tankardstown sits on Ordovician volcanic rock with primary ores of Devonian age, formed through ancient volcanic activity and later transformed by oxidation and weathering. The Copper Coast region is celebrated for its exceptional mineral diversity, with more than 36 recorded species, including azurite, malachite, chalcopyrite, pyrite, brochantite, cuprite, sphalerite, galena, and many others—several of which are found specifically at Tankardstown.

Today, the site forms part of the Copper Coast Geopark’s heritage trail and is one of its most photographed landmarks. Though not fully developed for tourism due to safety and conservation requirements—estimated restoration costs run into millions of euros—it remains freely accessible at surface level. Visitors can admire the engine house ruins, the towering chimney, and interpretive signage along the coastal road. However, entry to underground workings is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

The Copper Coast Geopark Visitor Centre in Bunmahon offers engaging geological and mining heritage exhibitions, as well as a 3D virtual tour of Tankardstown’s surface and underground structures as they appeared in the 1870s.

• From Dungarvan, take the R675 east towards Bunmahon (about 25 minutes by car). The site is located just beyond the village along the Copper Coast drive, signposted near the cliffs.

• Public transport options are limited; car hire is recommended.

• Parking is available roadside near the ruins.

• Wear sturdy shoes and stay on designated paths, as the ruins and cliffs are unstable.

• Visit during daylight for the best coastal views and photography.

• Stop by the Copper Coast Geopark Visitor Centre to learn about other nearby geosites.

• Bring binoculars—coastal wildlife such as seabirds are often visible from the cliffs.

Admission Fee:

• Free (open-air site)

Opening Time:

• Open daily, year-round (daylight hours recommended for safety).