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Honister Slate Mine is one of the Lake District’s true hidden gems and England’s last working slate mine. Nestled high along the dramatic Honister Pass, it remains a living link to centuries of heritage, where the iconic Green Slate is still extracted and crafted by hand using traditional methods passed down through generations.
Honister’s on-site Slate Shop and Gallery is a must-visit for anyone with an eye for design or a love of the Lakes. From beautifully crafted house signs and coasters to architectural pieces and heritage gifts, every item is shaped on site and steeped in local character. Visitors can even fill a boot with slate chippings for just £5 – a popular keepsake or garden feature for those inspired by the landscape.
For larger building or memorial projects, the slate sales team is always on hand to offer advice, and bespoke engraving services are available. Whether it’s a new slate kitchen worktop, a memorial or a handcrafted reminder of your time in the Lakes, Honister’s slate brings timeless beauty and durability with a genuine sense of place.
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| Season (1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025) |
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* On bank holidays open from 09.00. Phone during winter months.
Member of Cumbria Tourism 2016
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From Keswick: Around 9 miles – approximately 25 minutes via the B5289 From Penrith (M6): Around 26 miles – approximately 50 minutes via the A66 and B5289 From Windermere: Around 29 miles – approximately 1 hour 10 mins From Ambleside: Around 25 miles – approximately 1 hour
The Stagecoach 77A – known as The Honister Rambler – stops right on our doorstep. It’s a spectacular route and one of the most scenic bus journeys in the country, travelling through Keswick, Seatoller and Buttermere. Using the 77A is a fantastic way to enjoy the landscape stress-free and support sustainable tourism in the Lake District.
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