Honister Slate Mine
England's last working slate mine on Honister Pass, with mine tours, Via Ferrata, the Infinity Bridge and the new 1.2km Honister Aerial Flight zip wire.
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About Honister Slate Mine
Honister Slate Mine is England's last working slate mine and a major adventure attraction high on Honister Pass between Borrowdale and Buttermere. The site combines its working Westmorland Green slate operation with guided mine tours and outdoor adventure experiences including Via Ferrata Classic and Xtreme, the Infinity Bridge, Climb the Mine and the Honister Aerial Flight. New for 2026, the Honister Aerial Flight is a 1,200-metre zip wire that Honister describes as England's longest. It reaches speeds of up to 65mph and is reached via a guided Via Ferrata Classic ascent. The full experience takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and currently costs from £109 per person. Participants must be at least 10 years old and 1.3 metres tall, with a maximum weight of 18 stone / 120kg. Anyone aged 10 to 15 must be accompanied by a participating adult aged 18 or over.
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The Aerial Flight follows the heritage of the Lancaster Aerial Flight, which carried slate from the crag from 1926. The modern line combines adventure tourism with the story of the working mine. Honister is in an exposed mountain location and adventure activities are subject to weather and participation requirements. High winds can affect the Aerial Flight. Strong footwear is required and visitors with booked activities should arrive in good time; Honister asks Aerial Flight customers to arrive 30 minutes before their session. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during weekends and school holidays. Check the official Honister website for live availability, current prices and activity-specific requirements before travelling.
Our local note
One of the Lake District's strongest adventure attractions, combining a working slate mine, mountain history and high-adrenaline activities. Book ahead for the Aerial Flight and check weather conditions.
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We had an amazing day at Honister Slate Mine, the tour was fascinating. The views from the top were absolutely breathtaking, and the inside of the mine gave us a real appreciation for the hard work and heritage behind the slate industry. Definitely one of the most memorable things we’ve done in the Lakes!
I visited Honister Slate Mine recently and it was fantastic! The mine tour was interesting and gave a real feel for the history behind it. I loved the Via Ferrata – a proper adrenaline rush with some incredible views of the Lake District! The staff were great, super friendly and helpful. If you’re into a mix of history and outdoor adventure, you’ll love it.
