Honister Slate Mine

If you’re looking for a rugged, high-altitude adventure, Honister Slate Mine is a brilliant shout. Perched right at the top of the Honister Pass in the Lake District (CA12 5XN, Cumbria), it’s a working mine that has been transformed into an adrenaline junkie’s playground.

What’s the vibe?

It’s wild, windy, and incredibly scenic. Because it’s a working slate mine, it feels authentic rather than a polished theme park. You’re essentially playing on the side of a mountain, so expect some spectacular views of Buttermere and the surrounding fells.

The Fun Stuff

• Via Ferrata: This is the big draw. You’ll be clipped into a steel cable while climbing up the mountain face using iron rungs and ladders. There’s a Classic route for those who want a bit of a challenge and an Xtreme version for those who want to feel like Spiderman (including a nerve-wracking bridge crossing). SEE BELOW
  • Restrictions: You need to be at least 1m 30cm tall and age 10+.
• Mine Tours: If you prefer staying underground, the tours take you deep into the caverns. It’s atmospheric, slightly eerie, and great for learning how they get that famous green slate out of the rock.
  • Target Audience: Great for families with older kids and teens; younger children can do the mine tours, but the climbing activities are definitely for the bigger ones.
• The Infinity Bridge: Suspended high above the valley floor, it’s the longest high-wire bridge of its kind in Britain. Not for the faint-hearted! SEE BELOW

Practical Tips & Budgeting

• Money Savers: Keep an eye out for Blue Light discounts or Senior rates if you’re bringing the grandparents along for the tour. They often offer family packages for the climbing activities which can shave a bit off the total.
• The Food Situation: There is a café on-site serving hot pies and cakes, but it can get busy. Many visitors recommend bringing a picnic—sitting on the rocks with a sandwich while watching people dangle off the mountain is half the fun. Plus, it saves a fair bit of cash.
• Parking: There is a car park right at the mine. It’s a bit of a hairy drive up the pass to get there, but parking is generally straightforward once you arrive.
• Timing: You’ll likely spend 3 to 4 hours here if you’re doing one of the climbs, or about 90 minutes for just a mine tour.

Nearby Gems

Since you’re already at the top of the pass, you’re in a prime spot for more exploring:

• Buttermere: Just a short drive down the hill. It’s one of the most beautiful lakes in the area with a very manageable, mostly level 7km circular walk that takes about 2 hours.
• Keswick: The nearest big town. It’s full of quirky shops and great pubs if you want a proper meal after your mountain exploits.

A heads-up from other visitors: Even if it’s sunny in the valley, it can be freezing and wet up at the mine. Bring layers and sturdy boots—you’re basically on a giant pile of slate, so flip-flops are a definite no-go!