Honister Pass — Local services in England

One of the easier passes to take between lakes. While some of them will leave your clutch smoking, Honister is a bit more gentle...but not too much. You still have to have your wits about you, especially in winter when conditions can be treacherous. There also isn't much room for manoeuvre & a single large vehicle can cause a tailback in both directions.

Approaching from Borrowdale or Buttermere will guarantee spectacular views. The Buttermere side is a deep & high-sided valley that conveys a dramatic sense of scale. From Borrowdale it has a more wide open aspect. At the top of the pass is Honister Slate Mine. I highly recommend visiting, if not only for the parking which is only £5/day (as at November 2023). Parking here will allow you to explore the area easily & enjoy the full view down both sides of the mountain pass. And there's a café...

The Lake District has never failed to make me smile, with that being said I had been through Honister Pass more times than I’d visited my grandparents this year. Now, let me get started on why I say this. 1 - pandemic, 2 - you can decide for yourself.

The windy roads that lead you through the pass are filled with tight, scary turns but don’t worry, there are plenty of lay-bys to stop and recover...

With the roads winding up to the Slate Mine, you can stop and enjoy a warm cup of coffee from the café in any weather. With parking, accessible for walking routes up and around the mountainside.

To end this review, (sorry if you’re still reading) I will share photos all throughout different weather conditions and all giving you one...

Honister Pass Challenge ⛰️ 😱 Slate Mines, Epic Hikes & Wild Roads 📸⛰️ Honister Pass is next-level adventure 🥾🌿⛰️ Not for the faint-hearted, but totally unforgettable. Our drive from Ambleside to Keswick then through Honister pass was scenic, challenging and adventurous. This slate mine is the last working mine in England. A must visit tourist attractions! 🅿️ Park at Honister Slate Mine (£5 all day) 🥾 Hike Fleetwith Pike to Dubs Hut, a slate-built shelter once used by miners 🚻 Toilets & restaurant/cafe at the mine. Also handmade slate goods shop & adrenaline activities like Mine Tours, Infinity Bridge and more. This trail starts at the slate mine car park and winds through dramatic mountain terrain to Buttermere. Jurassic vibes...