Honister Pass
A dramatic mountain pass in the Lake District, offering thrilling drives, historic slate mining adventures, and breathtaking hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Honister Pass
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic mountain pass in the Lake District, offering thrilling drives, historic slate mining adventures, and breathtaking hikes.
"WOW what a beautiful place. Scenery is fantastic. Lots of streams and waterfalls. Lots of wildlife."
🚗 Parking at the Mine
Park at Honister Slate Mine for a full day for around £5. Toilets and a cafe are available. :parking:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Good hiking boots are essential, especially if the weather is wet, as paths can be slippery. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Infinity Bridge
Honister Slate Mine
Walk across Europe's longest high-wire bridge, suspended 1,000 ft above the valley floor for breathtaking views.
Climb the Mine
Honister Slate Mine
Explore the historic slate mine on an indoor via ferrata, scaling the subterranean world for a unique thrill.
Fleetwith Pike Hike
Starts at Honister Slate Mine
A rewarding hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding fells and valleys, especially stunning at sunset.
Scenic Drive
Honister Pass
Experience one of the Lake District's most dramatic and scenic drives, with steep inclines and stunning vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Steep Drive
Book Adventure Activities in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking at the Mine
Park at Honister Slate Mine for a full day for around £5. Toilets and a cafe are available. :parking:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Good hiking boots are essential, especially if the weather is wet, as paths can be slippery. :athletic_shoe:
🔦 Head Torch for Descent
If hiking near sunset, bring a head torch for the descent, as visibility can decrease quickly. :flashlight:
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible! Take your time to stop at viewpoints and capture the dramatic mountain landscapes. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking at the Mine
Park at Honister Slate Mine for a full day for around £5. Toilets and a cafe are available. :parking:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Good hiking boots are essential, especially if the weather is wet, as paths can be slippery. :athletic_shoe:
🔦 Head Torch for Descent
If hiking near sunset, bring a head torch for the descent, as visibility can decrease quickly. :flashlight:
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible! Take your time to stop at viewpoints and capture the dramatic mountain landscapes. :camera:
⬆️ Drive Slowly & Safely
The pass is narrow and steep. Drive cautiously, use lower gears, and pull over for faster traffic. :steering_wheel:
⛰️ Hike to Dubs Hut
Consider the hike to Dubs Hut, a unique slate-built shelter offering a glimpse into mining history. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Honister Pass for its absolutely stunning and rugged scenery, describing the drive as thrilling and the landscape as beautiful and peaceful. Many highlight the adventure activities at the slate mine as unforgettable experiences, though some note the challenging nature of the roads and hikes.
"WOW what a beautiful place. Scenery is fantastic. Lots of streams and waterfalls. Lots of wildlife. The ride is thrilling. So peaceful and so many places to walk."
Tracey Kendall
"Beautiful, rugged, and absolutely stunning , the scenery here is really quite something, especially from high up, I only passed through the slate mine walking back to my car from the trek up to Dale Head summit, where also you can adventure and find many associated abandoned mine workings from years gone past. What people had to endure back then to survive, a really demanding environment up here, though also quite liberating and inspirational.
Highly recommend a visit, and what a great drive getting here"
Iain Newby (Spaceport7)
"Rode this on my motorcycle as part of a kino tour of Scotland, absolutely stunning scenery and a great road to ride , plenty of places to stop and take in the amazing views"
Graham Campbell-Wilson (Grog)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While driving is common, it's possible to visit Honister Pass using public transport. You can take a train to Windermere or Penrith and then use local bus services to reach Keswick, which is a good base. From Keswick, local buses may go near Honister Pass, but check schedules carefully as services can be infrequent. Some visitors opt for taxis from nearby towns for the final leg.
Honister Pass connects Borrowdale and Buttermere. The drive is steep and narrow, with hairpin bends. It's often tackled as part of a scenic loop, which can include Hardknott and Wrynose Passes for a truly adventurous road trip. Take your time and enjoy the dramatic scenery.
Yes, Honister Pass is a popular route for motorcyclists due to its scenic beauty and challenging road. Riders often describe it as a great road to ride with plenty of places to stop and admire the views. +1
Cycling up Honister Pass is a significant challenge due to its steep gradients. It's part of events like the Fred Whitton Challenge, attracting serious cyclists. Be prepared for a strenuous climb, but the views are a great reward.
The most convenient parking is at the Honister Slate Mine car park, which costs around £5 for the day. This location is ideal as it's the starting point for many hikes and adventure activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it's highly recommended to book adventure activities like the Infinity Bridge, Climb the Mine, and The Jump in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Honister Slate Mine website for the most up-to-date information on operating times for the mine, shop, cafe, and activities.
Accessing the pass itself is free. However, there are charges for parking at the Honister Slate Mine (£5 for the day) and for participating in the adventure activities offered by the mine.
Yes, the Honister Slate Mine provides toilet facilities and a cafe/restaurant. You can also purchase handmade slate goods there.
Yes, you can visit the Honister Slate Mine to explore the shop, enjoy the cafe, and learn about the history of slate mining without booking an adventure activity. The surrounding landscape is also accessible for walks.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the ascent to Fleetwith Pike for stunning views, and the trail towards Buttermere which passes through dramatic mountain terrain. The area also offers access to Dale Head summit and abandoned mine workings.
The Infinity Bridge is a high-wire bridge suspended 1,000 ft above the valley floor, connecting cliffs above Honister Pass. It offers unparalleled views and an adrenaline-pumping experience. 
Climb the Mine is an indoor via ferrata experience where visitors explore the old slate mine, scaling its subterranean passages. It's a thrilling underground adventure.
While incredibly scenic, Honister Pass can be challenging. The road is steep and narrow, and hiking trails can be demanding and slippery in wet conditions. Proper preparation, caution, and appropriate gear are essential.
Visitors have reported seeing various wildlife, including sheep, which are common in the Lake District's mountainous areas. The natural environment supports a range of local fauna.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire pass offers stunning photographic opportunities. Key spots include the winding road itself, viewpoints overlooking the valleys, the Infinity Bridge, and the dramatic mountain landscapes surrounding the slate mine.
Yes, low-flying military jets, such as KC-135 tankers, have been photographed flying through the narrow Honister Pass, offering a unique and thrilling aviation photography subject.
Late afternoon, especially during golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Sunrise can also offer dramatic light, but be prepared for potentially colder conditions and less visibility.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant mountain details. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or long exposures. Don't forget a protective case for your gear, especially if the weather is unpredictable.
Drone usage is permitted, but always adhere to local regulations and safety guidelines. Some creators have captured stunning aerial footage of the pass and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Shorter, accessible walks around the base of the pass or near the mine can be enjoyed by the whole family, allowing them to experience the stunning scenery without overly strenuous effort. Pack snacks and be prepared for changeable weather. 🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
⛰️ Hikers and Outdoor Adventurers
+1 Ensure you have appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots and waterproofs, as the weather can change rapidly. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Adventure Activities at Honister Slate Mine
+2 For the ultimate rush, The Jump offers a 30-meter free fall. These activities are perfect for adventure seekers looking for a unique experience in a dramatic landscape. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times, to secure your preferred slot. Driving and Cycling Honister Pass
Many visitors combine the drive with stops at the Honister Slate Mine for a break and to explore the surrounding area. Hiking and Exploring the Surroundings
For a more historical exploration, hikers can venture towards Dubs Hut, a unique slate-built shelter once used by miners, or explore the remnants of abandoned mine workings. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit