At the summit of Honister Pass, between Borrowdale and Buttermere, Honister Slate Mine still produces Westmorland green slate, and it has turned its tunnels into a rainy-day attraction with a clear heritage story. The classic option is the Mine Tour, a 90-minute guided walk underground with miners as guides, which departs daily at 10:30, 12:30 and 14:30 and covers about 50 steps down, uneven ground, a lit chamber and a mock explosion. The adventure option is the Climb in the Mine, a roughly three-hour via ferrata underground, where you wear a helmet, harness and head torch and clip onto a fixed safety cable across ladders, walls and bridges in old workings. The button on this page leads to that Climb in the Mine booking, which is rated five stars from ten reviews, while the walking Mine Tour is booked directly with the mine. Winter opening hours should be confirmed by phone, but tours run daily. A Santa's Secret Grotto is also held underground at Christmas.
The mine tour
Wrapped in a helmet and led by a guide who knows the working face, you walk into the mountain through a narrow tunnel, hear how slate was drilled, blasted and carried out by hand and by tramway, and see where the miners worked. The temperature underground stays steady, so it feels warmer than the summit in winter, but sturdy shoes are essential. Children are welcome, with a discounted child ticket and a family ticket, and at the moment a limited-time kids-go-free offer applies, so check the terms when you book.
The climb
Via ferrata means a protected climbing route, not free climbing, so no experience is required, but you need a head for heights and reasonable fitness. You move through the old workings, crossing exposed sections, with instructors giving constant guidance. It is described as working in all weather, which is why it is a favourite wet-day choice. It is likely to sell out, so book well ahead, and note it is non-refundable.
Getting there
Honister Pass is a steep, narrow, spectacular road, and in winter conditions it can be icy, so check the forecast and road status. The pass is also a hub for fell walks to Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike. Seasonal bus services reduce in winter, so a car or taxi is usually needed. Allow time for the cafe and slate shop, which sells local slate products, and for the views down toward Buttermere.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk through the mine on the Mine Tour, or a harnessed via ferrata route through the old workings on the Climb in the Mine.
Best time
The 10:30 tour or the first climb of the day, to leave daylight for the pass and the walks.
How long
About 90 minutes for the tour; about three hours for the climb.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes and warm layers, book the climb well ahead as it sells out, and check winter hours by phone.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone looking for a memorable underground adventure on a wet day.
- Families
- The Mine Tour suits most children; the climb needs a head for heights and a minimum-age check at booking.
- Couples
- The climb is a memorable shared challenge; the tour is a calmer option.
- Pair with
- Keswick and Derwentwater, Castlerigg Stone Circle and the walk to Haystacks.
- Time needed
- Half a day with the pass.
Good questions
Is Honister Slate Mine open in winter?+
Yes, tours run daily, but winter hours should be confirmed by phone before you go. The pass road can be icy.
What is the difference between the tour and the climb?+
The Mine Tour is a 90-minute guided walk underground. The Climb in the Mine is a three-hour via ferrata with harness and head torch. The booking page here is for the climb.
Do I need experience for the climb?+
No. A fixed safety cable and instructor guidance mean beginners can do it, but you need a head for heights and reasonable fitness.
Is it suitable for children?+
The Mine Tour has child and family prices and suits most ages. Check age rules when you book the climb.
How do I get there in winter?+
By car or taxi from Keswick or Buttermere. Seasonal buses are reduced in winter, and the steep pass can be icy.
