Travel bucket list idea:
Photo Ursula Lawrence
For several centuries, the mines around Honister were known for producing distinctive, grey-green Borrowdale slate, which was widely used for building and decorative architecture across Britain.
Slate is still mined here, but these days most of the shafts are silent, and can be explored on evocative underground tours that explore the area’s mining history, and give a unique insight into the weird, dark world the miners inhabited. The guided tours delve deep into the maze of murky caverns and tunnels beneath Fleetwith Pike.
If a regular mine tour isn’t quite enough, it’s also possible to join a Via Ferrata-style climbing tour, involving fixed cables, ladders, rope bridges and even a zip line. It’s great fun, but be prepared to get wet.
Tours last roughly 90 minutes. Head torches and hard hats are provided, but it is wet and cold underground, so wear warm layers, waterproofs and decent footwear. Tours run several times a day and can be booked in advance online.
Mine tours run two or three times daily from late February to December. You should aim to arrive 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled tour time.
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cumbria, United Kingdom (UK)
Imposing mountains, wild landscapes, tranquil lakes and picturesque towns combine to make the Lake District uniquely beautiful, and one of the best places in Britain for walking, climbing, boating and biking.
