An optimistic investment abandoned just a few years after it was built, this Grade II Listed building and its remains have become a symbol of Bodmin Moor’s mining heritage.
Standing on the south-eastern edge of Bodmin Moor, the Grade II Listed engine house forms part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site and has long been a source of pride for local people. Its dramatic silhouette is a powerful reminder of Cornwall’s mining past and the communities whose lives were shaped by it.
The engine house is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), it supports rare and endangered plant life, including one of only two known locations in the world where Cornish path moss grows. Nationally rare mosses and liverworts can also be found on the site.
In addition, the monument lies within Cornwall National Landscape and the Bodmin Moor International Dark Sky Landscape.
In search of riches
Work began on the Prince of Wales shaft in 1907 in the hope of uncovering valuable mineral deposits overlooked by previous generations of miners. Investment was substantial, despite it being unlikely that large, easily accessible deposits would be found.
By 1909, the engine had been brought into operation and the shaft was named after the Prince of Wales, who visited on 10th June 1909 with his wife, Mary.
Disappointing returns
Unfortunately, it soon became evident that the reserves were not as rich as hoped, and the pumping engine could not cope with the volume of water in the mine.
By July 1914, the decision was made to abandon the project and the engine was eventually dismantled and sold for scrap.
Although most mining historians consider the venture an ill-conceived, poorly executed failure, the engine house and its remains have come to symbolise the area’s wider mining heritage.
For many local people, they have become a source of pride and a reminder of past achievements.
Protected for future generations
Cornwall Heritage Trust became the proud new owner of the Prince of Wales Engine House in June 2026.
The transfer marks the fifth historic site to be entrusted to Cornwall Heritage Trust by Cornwall Council in the past year, reflecting the charity’s growing role in protecting Cornwall’s heritage for public benefit.
The acquisition forms part of Cornwall Heritage Trust’s wider vision for the Bodmin Moor area, where it already cares for several important historic sites, including Houseman’s Engine House, the Hurler Stone Circles, King Doniert’s Stone, Trethevy Quoit and St Cleer Holy Well and Cross. Our charity is working to protect, conserve and celebrate the area’s rich heritage while supporting local communities and creating opportunities for people to connect with Cornwall’s unique story.
