Honister Slate Mine
Last Updated on March 7, 2024 by Suzy McCullough
Honister Slate Mine near Keswick in Cumbria offers a range of indoor and outdoor adventures for a range of ages and abilities. Located at the head of Honister Pass, it is the last working slate mine in England and is home to the iconic Westmorland green slate.
Things to do at Honister Slate Mine, Via Ferrata
Infinity Bridge is a 1.5-hour activity for those 1.3 metres and over and at least 8 years of age. The bridge is a single wire across a gorge 2000 feet above the valley floor. If you dare look you will be rewarded with some amazing views.
You can also climb the mine which is a 2.5-hour activity for those 1.3 metres and over and at least 10 years of age. This is an adrenalin-filled adventure in the mountains. The climb follows the route of the original underground mine workings. There are vertical climbs, rope-bridge crossings and steep ladder ascents. This is an all-weather activity.
If you’re looking for something to do for all the family they also run mine tours. These last for 1.5 hours and take you deep underground through their historic slate mine where you will learn about the 450-million-year-old volcanic green slate. The tour is fully guided and includes 50 steps and uneven ground.
Honister is also home to Via Ferrata activities with Via Ferrate Xtreme and Via Ferrata Classic. Via Ferrata is from ages 10 years old and has a height of 1.3 metres. Via Ferrata originated in the Alps during WWI as a climbing route to enable troops to cross mountains. It is climbing like no other with metal steps, suspension bridges and more. It is one of the most adrenaline-filled climbing activities in the world.
Important Information Honister Slate Mine
Is there food and drink available?
Perched at the top of Honister Pass is Honister’s Sky Hi Café with locally sourced and home-cooked food, drinks, and ice cream.
What are the main things to do?
Adrenalin adventure activities include Via Ferrata, cliff climbing, suspension bridges, mine tours and more. There are toilets and a cafe.
What are the ticket prices?
Infinity Bridge £25 per person. The mine tour costs £17.50 for an adult and £9.50 for a child. Via Ferrata, classic is £40 per person and £45 pp for the Xtreme. Parking is free,  for Honister customers. £5.00 per day per vehicle, if you are not a customer.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
Is there parking?
Parking is free, for customers, £5 for those that are not.
When are they open?
They are open for most of the year. For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.
Dog friendly?
Dogs are welcome in the café, shop and public viewing area but not on any of the activities.
Are they accessible?
Please contact the venue.
