Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum

Today the old industrial site has become a fascinating volunteer-run museum. Indoor displays explain the geology of the Lake District and the mining and quarrying industries that helped shape communities across Cumbria. You can see local rocks and minerals alongside historic plans, photographs, mining equipment and displays covering lighting, drilling and explosives.

Outside, the scale of the original quarry becomes much clearer. The site is home to an impressive collection of vintage excavators, locomotives and quarry machinery, including equipment that would once have been commonplace across industrial Cumbria.

The narrow-gauge railway is one of the highlights. The two-foot-gauge line carries visitors into the old quarry on a journey lasting around 25 minutes. Diesel locomotives normally operate on regular museum days, with steam running during selected school holidays and special events. A train ride is included with normal museum admission.

Families can also try mineral panning for an additional charge, making this a particularly good option for children who are into trains, diggers, rocks or anything mechanical.

For the 2026 season, normal admission is £9.50 for adults, £9 for visitors aged 65 and over and £5.50 for children under 16. Mineral panning costs an additional £4 per pan. Prices can change, so check the museum website before travelling.

The museum normally opens from the beginning of the Easter school holidays until the end of the October half-term holiday. When open, hours are generally 10am to 5pm. It closes on Mondays during school term time but normally opens seven days a week during school holidays.

You do not normally need to book a standard visit in advance. Dogs are welcome around the site, inside the museum and on the train. Pushchairs can be carried in the train's guard's van, while a ramp and space for a wheelchair are also available.

There is ample free parking at the quarry. The attraction does not currently operate a full café, although tea, coffee, cold drinks, traybakes, ice creams and snacks are normally available. Toilets are provided, but the museum states that it does not currently have a fully accessible toilet.

There are currently no underground mine tours. The attraction is centred on the museum, railway and historic quarry site rather than taking visitors underground.

The museum is also undergoing a significant expansion. A new museum building and extension to the narrow-gauge railway are being developed, with the museum previously indicating a provisional Easter 2027 opening target for the completed new building. Check the official website for the latest project updates.