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Many different mineral deposits, such as iron, tin, copper, lead, silver, and gold, have been found consistently across different areas of the UK. Gold, which has been found in the UK for centuries, is in high demand globally and carries a high price tag too. With UK rivers being a prime source of gold, it is no surprise that people across the country hunt for gold in their spare time in the hope of finding this precious mineral.
Gold panning, often called gold prospecting, is a fun and accessible activity suitable for all ages that does not require much knowledge or expensive equipment. The idea is to sift particles from river sediment to hopefully find gold at the end. All you really need to get started is a spade and pan, and a love for the outdoors. Don’t forget your waterproof boots too!
Gold panning is a legal activity in the UK. However, it is essential to get the landowner’s permission before you begin panning. You should also ensure that your activities will not have any detrimental effects on the environment – if in doubt, contact the Environmental Agency.
The UK law on gold panning states that, in most cases, gold found during panning actually belongs to The Crown Estate. You will need permission from the Estate to remove gold that you discover, and they may grant you a lease within a specific area.
Gold prospecting in the UK has delivered some valuable finds over the years, particularly across areas of Scotland and Wales. Gold is often found in UK rivers and is typically deposited by the downstream movement of water.
The largest nugget of gold ever discovered in the UK was found on a Scottish riverbed in 2019. Valued at around £80,000, it was discovered in two pieces that fit perfectly together and so was given the name ‘The Reunion Nugget’.
One of the largest nuggets of gold found in the UK was discovered just off the coast of Anglesey, North Wales, in 2012 and estimated to be worth £50,000.
Another valuable gold discovery named the ‘Douglas Nugget’ was also found on a riverbed in Scotland, with an estimated worth of £50,000.
The first step to successful gold panning is researching where to go. If you’re wondering where to pan for gold, these are some great UK sites to start with across England, Wales, and Scotland.
Gold has been discovered across many areas of the Lake District in Cumbria, including on Blencathra mountain – one of the most northerly hills in the district.
In Strath of Kildonan, gold panning is offered free of charge by the owners of the Suisgill Estate. Two gold panning sessions per year are permitted, with a limit on the equipment you can use.
The Northern Pennines area in England has many confirmed reports of gold being discovered, along with various other minerals. Gold panning could likely result in more gold being found in this area.
The Hopetoun Estate in Scotland offers paid gold panning licences across its river and tributaries but has strict rules for equipment and areas of digging.
Devon county is rich in a variety of minerals and is a regular spot for gold panning in England.
Gold panning licences for Mennock Water and Wanlock Water can be obtained for periods of one day, one week, or one year. Digging into river banks is not allowed, and there are also strict rules for equipment.
Cornwall is famous for its mineral deposits, particularly the area of Camborne, which has become a popular gold prospecting location in the UK. Gold has been mined in the area, which is a good indication that gold panning may result in success.
Not only are there particular gold panning locations across the UK, but there are also commercialised areas where gold mining has taken place for centuries.
The earliest known use of the Tyndrum mine was actually supplying King James I with silver in the 1400s. Why not try your hand at finding gold this time!
The Clogau Gold Mine in North Wales began mining in the 1800s and has produced thousands of tonnes of gold.
There are miles of unexplored countryside, so just because gold has not been found at some UK locations does not mean it is not present there. You could be the next to discover it on a gold panning expedition! However, the areas mentioned above might be good places to begin searching. Don’t be afraid to try gold panning closer to home too – you never know what you might find.
If you enjoy gold panning then you will probably enjoy fossil hunting (yes that is the official term, well that is what we call it anyway) and searching for gemstones. We hope you are successful on your gold panning adventures.
