What to do with Kids in the Lake District on a wet day? Go inside somewhere. Or, more exciting, underground somewhere. Today I am as excited as they are because we are finally heading to the Honister Slate Mine Tour with the Kids.
I have been in two minds whether or not to post these images as I don’t want to spoil the surprise or influence people not to go as these pictures show them whats going on. Far from it, these pictures are simply scratching the surface and more so than what you see, what you’ll hear as you’re guided around the mine is equally as interesting if not more so. Today has been a really great day out in the Lake District and made even more so by the knowledgeable and dry sense of humorous from our guide Donald, what a guy. Don’t hesitate to visit Honister and embark on this mine tour it is excellent.
I’ve loved Honister for a long time, since the days years ago I used to talk to the Mines owner Mark Weir who sadly passed away in a Helicopter Crash. What Mark has achieved here and his Legacy is truly unique and one we should all support. He was a good guy and his drive and determination along with the support of his family and friends has produced what maybe the best day out int he Lake District. There are lots going on at Honister, something for everyone. If you’re not familure with the place or simply pass by on your way elsewhere make it a priority to visit and show the guys some support. It’s a truly unique and amazing place.
Looking up to Fleetwith Pike from Honister.
A beautiful day for it.
On the bus heading up to the Mine. Reminds me of the Italian Job. What could possibly go wrong…
Must be 0ver 20 years that Ive been sat on a bus in the UK.
Approaching the entrance to the mine.
Still beautiful in any weather…
Thanks for the ride…
Here we go, the entrance to the mine tour. Donald our guide is a great guy, so knowledgeable and interesting. I could listen to him all day long. what a good guy.
One last look down before we go inside the mountain.
Apparently Miners used to live in these buildings… I won’t tell you the full story you should visit yourself it is really a worthwhile visit.
Heading into the Mine…
Following on. Donald’s gang leading the way.
Lewis stands up with Donald and the rest of his gang as he explains the workings of the mine and how it was formed. Really interesting to see and hear the details.
Into a large chamber where volcanic rock runs across the ceiling. They couldn’t mine through this tough rock.
Lava
What a place.
Ot is truly a sight in here. You need to visit.
An old Mine Cart.
Amazing feat of engineering.
Heading down into the mine below the ceiling of volcanic rock.
Daylight
A great vantage point over the Honister Pass
Lewis and his Donald’s gang marking.
What a great adventure. A really informative and enjoyable experience in the Lake District.
Donald was a great guide and full of local knowledge. I’ve learnt more about the history of the Lake District on this tour than I have my whole life. Wonderful stuff.
Goodbye Honister, it’s been a great experience and one I cannot recommend highly enough. A great afternoon.
A quick stop off at Derwentwater on our way back to Ambleside.
You can see my collection of Lake District Landscape Prints from Honister Pass here in my gallery.
