Corris

Corris is a small settlement situated in mid-Wales, roughly halfway between Machynlleth and Welshpool. The village lies on the River Dwyryd and is part of the historic county of Montgomeryshire, now within Powys. Its name is derived from the Brythonic word for “hill” and reflects the local topography of gently undulating hills and valleys.

The area became prominent in the 19th century as a centre of slate quarrying. Several quarries operated around Corris, producing high‑quality slate that was exported to England and overseas. The quarrying boom attracted workers and led to the establishment of a modest railway network. The Corris Railway, a narrow‑gauge line opened in the 1870s, linked the quarries with the Cambrian main line at Machynlleth, facilitating the transport of slate and passengers. Although the railway closed in the 1950s, the track bed remains a popular route for walkers and cycling enthusiasts, and part of the former line is now managed by the Cambrian Heritage Rail Partnership.

Today Corris is a quiet rural community with a small population. Its heritage is celebrated through the annual “Corris Slate Festival” and the nearby Corris Heritage Museum, which documents the industrial history of the region. Agriculture remains a key activity, with farms stretching across the surrounding hills. The village benefits from its proximity to scenic natural attractions, including the Aberystwyth Coast Path and the Broads of Ceredigion, making it a modest yet historically rich destination in Wales.