Wheal Prosper

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Wheal Prosper

Wheal Prosper Mine (Grid ref SW 593 270) stands on the cliffs between Praa Sands and Porthleven on the southern end of the Tregonning granite

It was opened c.1860 and produced tin and a little copper from its Porthcew lode for around six years before closing in 1866.

The most prominent feature of the mine still visible today is the 30" pumping engine house erected on Engine Shaft in 1860 to pump water out of the mine. The building is in excellent condition after being stabilised by the National Trust. It is constructed of slate from local quarries with granite quoins for strength. The window lintels are of wood. The shaft has been filled in.

Wheal Prosper pumping engine house is a Scheduled Monument. It was acquired by the National Trust in 1969.

An earlier adaptation of Poldark was filmed here.

There are excellent views across Mount's Bay and down to Porthcew Cove (Rinsey Cove). A footpath leads down to the beach but beware it is a long climb.

The platform on which the engine house stands is an excellent place for stargazing as there is very little light pollution and its situation is south facing.

The Cornwall Coast Path passes through Wheal Prosper. There is also a circular walk which takes you in a loop from Wheal Prosper to a viewpoint for Wheal Trewavas before leading you back to the Wheal Prosper car park.

National Trust car park just above the engine house with a gently sloping path down to Wheal Prosper.

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