The lead smelter utilized a unique chimney system located on the summit of the hill to dissipate toxic fumes away from the village below.
The smelting complex was connected to the mines by a horse-drawn tramway, remnants of which can still be traced in the topography.
Lead ore extracted from these mines was frequently sent to England for final processing during the mid-19th century.
The site was closed permanently in 1913 after production became economically unviable compared to international competition.
The iconic stone flue is over 1 kilometer in length, winding its way uphill to the chimney stack.
The Ballycorus Lead Mines are a prominent 19th-century industrial site located in the Dublin Mountains. The site is most recognizable by its distinctive stone chimney, which was part of a lead smelting complex operational from the early 1800s until 1913. A long, serpentine flue runs up the hillside from the smelting works to this chimney, designed to condense lead vapors and prevent poisoning of surrounding livestock. Visitors can hike the ruins of the engine house and various mine shafts scattered across the hillside. The location offers elevated views across the Dublin coastline and the Wicklow countryside. Much of the site is managed as a public access recreational area for hikers.
From the base of the stone chimney, looking back down the winding flue towards the coastline.
Wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots as the terrain is uneven, muddy, and covered in loose gravel.
Bring a windbreaker or warm layer, as the exposed hillside is significantly colder and windier than the lowlands.
Download an offline map, as cell service can be intermittent in the elevated parts of the trail.
Do not attempt to enter or climb on the crumbling remains of the stone buildings or the chimney, as they are structurally unstable.
Stay on marked paths to avoid unstable ground near old mine shafts; keep dogs on a leash due to grazing livestock nearby.
