Honister Pass & Slate Mine
Honister Slate Mine
One of the steepest pass roads in the Lake District; at the summit, a century-old slate mine offers underground tours and the chance to tackle a rock-face via ferrata.
Honister Pass links Borrowdale and Buttermere, with gradients reaching 25%, and runs through bleak rocky valleys. At the top, the working Honister Slate Mine still quarries the famous 'Westmorland Green' slate. It offers underground mine tours (about 1.5 hours), Britain's first 'Via Ferrata' rock-face climbing route, and a suspension bridge. Even without booking an activity, you can visit the visitor centre to see slate crafts and grab a coffee. Tours start at about £20 and must be booked in advance. The road is narrow and steep, so take care in icy winter conditions.
Opening hours
Visitor center approx. 9:00 am–5:00 pm
Nearby sights
- Scafell Pike
- Catbells
- Buttermere
- Keswick & Derwentwater
- Hardknott Pass & Roman Fort
- Wast Water
- Great Langdale
- Castlerigg Stone Circle