Honister Slate Mine: Adventure and Heritage in the Lake District
Explore England’s last working slate mine with thrilling adventures and rich heritage amid stunning Lake District landscapes.
Nestled at the top of Honister Pass near Keswick, Honister Slate Mine is England's last working slate mine and a hub for thrilling outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore underground mine tours, tackle the UK's original Via Ferrata, or experience the unique Climb the Mine challenge. Set amid stunning Lake District landscapes, the site combines rich industrial heritage with adrenaline-filled activities suitable for all ages and abilities.
A brief summary to Honister Slate Mine
- Honister Pass, Keswick, CA12 5XN, GB
- +441768777230
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book adventure activities like Via Ferrata and Climb the Mine in advance to secure your spot.
- Dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear; the mine interior remains cool year-round with uneven terrain.
- Parking costs £5 per day and can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- Take time to visit the café and gift shop for local slate products and refreshments.
- Check weather and road conditions on Honister Pass before traveling, particularly in winter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Keswick to Honister Slate Mine takes approximately 25-30 minutes via the scenic but steep and winding Honister Pass. Parking is available on-site for £5 per day. Note that the pass can close during severe weather, especially in winter, so check conditions beforehand.
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Local Bus
During peak seasons, limited local bus services operate between Keswick and Honister Slate Mine, with journey times around 40-50 minutes. Service frequency is low, so plan ahead and verify current timetables. The bus stops near the visitor centre but does not go to the mine entrance.
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Taxi
Taxis from Keswick to Honister Slate Mine provide a convenient option with travel times of 25-30 minutes. Prices vary but typically range from £25 to £40 one way. This is useful if public transport is unavailable or for groups seeking direct access.
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Walking
For experienced walkers, a hike from nearby Seatoller or Borrowdale to Honister Slate Mine can take 1.5 to 2 hours over steep and uneven terrain. Appropriate footwear and weather preparation are essential. This option offers rewarding views but is physically demanding.
Honister Slate Mine location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Honister Slate Mine
Historic Legacy of Honister Slate Mine
Honister Slate Mine sits prominently at the head of Honister Pass in the Lake District National Park, producing the renowned Westmorland Green slate that dates back over 450 million years. Mining here has a history spanning nearly three centuries, making it one of England’s most significant industrial heritage sites. The mine’s workings extend deep underground beneath Fleetwith Pike, showcasing the traditional slate extraction methods and the miners’ challenging lives. Guided tours take visitors through narrow tunnels, vast caverns, and original mine shafts, revealing the geology and history of this last working slate mine in England.Immersive Underground and Outdoor Adventures
Beyond the historical tours, Honister offers an array of adventure activities designed to engage visitors physically and mentally. The famed Via Ferrata, England’s first, lets climbers navigate steep cliffs using fixed cables, ladders, and bridges, while the Climb the Mine experience provides a thrilling indoor via ferrata-style challenge inside the mine itself. For those seeking breathtaking views, hikes from the mine lead to panoramic vistas over Buttermere and Crummock Water. These activities cater to various skill levels and ages, with expert guides ensuring safety and enjoyment.Visitor Facilities and Experience
The visitor centre at Honister Slate Mine includes a café known as the Bait Cabin, offering local food and drinks, perfect for refueling after adventures. The gift shop features unique handcrafted slate products and quirky souvenirs that celebrate the mine’s craftsmanship. The site is wheelchair friendly at ground level, with accessible toilet facilities in the café. Weather can be variable and often chilly inside the mine, so visitors are advised to dress accordingly. Parking is available on-site for a daily fee, and the area serves as a popular starting point for fell walking.Seasonal Considerations and Practical Information
Honister Slate Mine operates year-round, typically from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, though some activities require pre-booking and may be seasonal. The Honister Pass road can be affected by severe weather, especially in winter, occasionally leading to closures. Visitors should check local conditions before traveling. The mine tours last approximately 90 minutes and involve some uneven terrain and stair descent. Children under 3 enter free, and there are special offers such as free child tickets with a full-paying adult for mine tours.Natural Setting and Scenic Appeal
Set amid dramatic mountain landscapes, Honister Slate Mine offers not only industrial heritage but also stunning natural beauty. The surrounding fells and valleys provide iconic views and photo opportunities, making it a favored spot for nature lovers and photographers. The combination of rugged terrain, historic mining structures, and expansive panoramas creates a unique atmosphere blending adventure, history, and scenic tranquility.Commitment to Safety and Sustainability
Honister Slate Mine prioritizes visitor safety with professional guides and well-maintained equipment for all adventure activities. The site balances its operational mining with tourism, respecting the natural environment of the Lake District National Park. Efforts are made to minimize environmental impact, ensuring this historic and natural treasure remains protected for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve
17.6 km
Experience the serene landscapes and rich wildlife of Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Ambleside Roman Fort
17.9 km
Experience the rich history at Ambleside Roman Fort, a key archaeological site in the heart of the Lake District, offering stunning views and engaging exhibits.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
18.6 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
Aira Force Waterfall
18.8 km
Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.
National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
18.9 km
Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Lake District Wildlife Park
19.4 km
Explore the Lake District Wildlife Park: A family-friendly destination showcasing exotic animals and stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Wray
19.5 km
Explore Wray Castle, a Victorian gem on Lake Windermere offering stunning views, rich history, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Wordsworth House and Garden
20.1 km
Experience the literary legacy of William Wordsworth at his childhood home, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Cockermouth.
Latterbarrow
20.3 km
Explore Latterbarrow: Experience breathtaking views and refreshing hikes in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers.
Brockhole on Windermere
20.6 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
National Trust - Townend
21.4 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
Ravenglass Roman Bath House
22.2 km
Uncover the ancient history of the Ravenglass Roman Bath House, a captivating heritage site nestled in the scenic landscapes of England's Lake District.
Grizedale
22.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and artistic wonders of Grizedale Forest, a national park filled with adventure and serenity in the Lake District.
Holehird Gardens
22.5 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Windermere and Troutbeck
22.9 km
Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bowder Stone
4.1 km
A towering 2,000-ton glacial boulder steeped in Norse legend and Lake District history, inviting climbers and nature lovers alike.
Galleny Force Waterfall
4.8 km
Discover the enchanting Galleny Force Waterfall, a tranquil mossy gorge with crystal-clear pools nestled in Borrowdale Valley’s stunning natural landscape.
Goldscope Mine
5.0 km
Explore the historic copper and lead mining legacy nestled in the scenic Lake District’s Newlands Valley.
Moss Force Waterfall
5.0 km
Discover the breathtaking 100-meter cascades of Moss Force, a serene yet powerful waterfall nestled in the heart of England’s Lake District.
Ritson's Force
5.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Ritson's Force, a charming waterfall nestled among England’s highest peaks in the Lake District.
Wasdale Head
6.0 km
Explore England’s highest peaks and deepest lake from the tranquil, rugged heart of Wasdale Head in the Lake District.
Scafell Pike
6.4 km
Explore Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, offering breathtaking views and thrilling hiking opportunities in the heart of the Lake District.
Newlands Valley
6.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and iconic hiking trails of Newlands Valley, a serene escape nestled in the heart of the Lake District near Keswick.
Lodore Falls
6.5 km
Experience the breathtaking cascade of Lodore Falls nestled in the heart of the Lake District’s Borrowdale Valley.
Catbells
6.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views and accessible trails of Cat Bells, a beloved Lake District fell near Keswick with iconic panoramas over Derwentwater.
Surprise View
7.0 km
Breathtaking panoramic views over Derwent Water and Skiddaw from a peaceful, accessible Lake District vantage point.
Brandlehow Park
7.5 km
A peaceful National Trust park on Derwentwater’s quiet western shore, perfect for lakeside strolls, picnics, and views of Catbells and the Borrowdale fells.
Ashness Bridge
7.7 km
Historic stone packhorse bridge with iconic Lake District views over Derwentwater, nestled in Keswick’s scenic hiking landscape.
Derwentwater
8.1 km
Explore Derwentwater’s breathtaking lake, dramatic fells, and charming Keswick shores in England’s iconic Lake District.
Scale Force Waterfall
8.2 km
Discover England’s highest waterfall, Scale Force, a breathtaking 170-foot cascade hidden in the serene woodlands of the Lake District.
Essential places to dine
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
9.6 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
10.0 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
The Cottage In The Wood
11.0 km
Michelin-starred fine dining nestled in Whinlatter Forest with cozy rooms and stunning views of the Lake District’s Skiddaw mountains.
The Jumble Room
12.6 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
13.2 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
The Inn on the Lake
16.6 km
Elegant lakeside retreat blending Victorian charm with modern comfort on Ullswater’s scenic shores in the Lake District.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
17.5 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
Dodds Restaurant
17.6 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
17.7 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lucy's on a plate
17.7 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
17.7 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
17.8 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
Herdwick Willy’s Bar & Bistro
18.9 km
A relaxed bistro-bar nestled in Bassenthwaite’s scenic Croft Holiday Park, serving fresh pizzas and light fare with countryside views.
Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
19.2 km
A welcoming family-friendly pub and restaurant in Cockermouth offering classic British dishes, hearty breakfasts, and a spacious beer garden with countryside views.
The Samling Hotel
19.3 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
10.6 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
Love the Lakes Keswick
10.7 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Alternative
10.7 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
10.7 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
Booths, Keswick
10.8 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
RockShop
17.6 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
Booths, Windermere
24.0 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
24.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
24.3 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Tesco Express
24.3 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
24.3 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Herdy Bowness
24.3 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
24.3 km
Discover gifts and memorabilia inspired by Beatrix Potter's beloved characters in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
24.4 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
24.4 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
6.1 km
Historic mountain pub at the foot of England’s highest peak, offering real ales, hearty food, and stunning Lake District views.
Wainwrights' Inn
12.8 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Talbot Bar
15.6 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
16.6 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Golden Rule
17.6 km
A historic Ambleside pub offering traditional ales, cozy fires, and a welcoming atmosphere away from the tourist bustle.
The Vault
17.7 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
17.8 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
Castle Bar
19.9 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Cockermouth with award-winning design, local ales, sunny beer garden, and vibrant sports bar atmosphere.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
21.2 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
21.5 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Windermere Speakeasy
23.9 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
24.0 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
24.0 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
24.0 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Quayside Bowness
24.2 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
24.2 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
24.2 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
33.4 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
The Lounge C9
44.2 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
44.2 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
44.2 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
Secret Carlisle
45.6 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
45.8 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
46.0 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
46.0 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
secret bridge
46.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Moorcock Inn
60.8 km
Discover the charm of The Moorcock Inn in Sedbergh, where cozy accommodations meet delicious local cuisine amidst breathtaking Yorkshire Dales views.
The Tides Inn
65.5 km
Discover the charm of The Tides Inn, a cozy pub in Kirkcudbright offering delicious food, local drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all tourists.
The Steamie
65.6 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Steamie, a charming pub in the heart of Kirkcudbright offering local ales and a cozy atmosphere.
The Masonic Arms
65.7 km
Experience the cozy charm of The Masonic Arms in Kirkcudbright, where great food, local brews, and a friendly atmosphere await.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
