Ballachulish Slate Quarry, Lochaber, Highlands

Leaders: Dr Joan Walsh

Ballachulish is the most important of the Scottish slate quarries. The first quarry opened in the 18^th century and grew quickly during the 19^th century; a time of rapidly expanding towns and cities. It is still found on the roofs of historic buildings and in conservation areas.

On this trip we will visit the main East Laroch Quarry and view the slate in situ, observe evidence of traditional working methods and discuss the characteristics that make it such a durable material. The extensive waste tips, left by nearly 200 years of quarrying, were stabilised in the 1970s removing any evidence of Brecklet Quarry. We will however, visit Khartoum Quarry, a small working 1km to the south. In August 2002, blocks of slate were removed from here for testing with the aim of finding a new source of Scottish slates.  Depending on time, we may visit the West Laroch quarries and view the North Quarries on the other side of Loch Leven.

Meeting point: Outside the Molema Building, Lilibank Gardens, Glasgow at 8:30am

Travel: By by Minibus returning 6:30pm

Cost:  Members £30, Non-members £35.  Booking required.

Activity Level: Moderate. Suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness.