Honister Slate Mine has today received official approval for its highly anticipated Zip Wire attraction, marking a historic moment for the Lake District’s last working slate mine.
After 15 years of perseverance, evolving proposals, and extensive planning considerations, the project has been given the green light by the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) with a unanimous decision. The Zip Wire will offer a thrilling yet sensitively designed adventure, allowing visitors to soar through the stunning Borrowdale Valley while ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding landscape.
The approved design incorporates key refinements to reduce visual and noise impact, including adjustments to the landing area and technical modifications. Honister’s commitment to preserving the landscape and maintaining harmony with the natural environment has been central to this project from the outset.
“This is a monumental day for Honister,” said Prentice Wilkinson-Weir, Director at Honister Slate Mine. “After more than a decade of dedication and perseverance, we are absolutely thrilled to finally bring this vision to life. This Zip Wire will be a truly unique experience, giving more everyone the opportunity to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Borrowdale Valley – especially those who may not have been able to explore the fells in the past. We want to thank everyone who has supported us throughout this journey. This is a special day for our family and the team here at honister. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to experience this incredible experience”
Honister has been a cornerstone of Lake District history for centuries, with mining taking place on this site for nearly 400 years. Since its revival by the Weir family in 1997, it has evolved into a must-visit destination, attracting thrill-seekers, heritage enthusiasts, families, and international visitors alike.
From guided mine tours showcasing traditional craftsmanship to adrenaline-filled challenges such as the Via Ferrata Xtreme, Climb the Mine, and Infinity Bridge, Honister continually blends industrial heritage with outdoor adventure. The addition of the Zip Wire is the next step in ensuring Honister continues to evolve while remaining true to its roots.
Crucially, the Zip Wire will also provide an inclusive adventure opportunity. Designed with accessibility in mind, the experience will be open to participants who may not otherwise be able to explore the fells, offering them a unique way to experience the great outdoors and the breathtaking beauty of the Borrowdale Valley. This will be an experience like no other in the world.
A Positive Boost for the Lake District
The approval of the Zip Wire marks an exciting new chapter for Honister and the wider region. The attraction is set to provide a positive boost to the Lake District, supporting jobs at Honister and creating additional opportunities for local businesses, from accommodation providers to independent cafes and shops.
Most importantly, the Zip Wire introduces a new, safe, and exhilarating way for visitors of all abilities to connect with the outdoors, making adventure and exploration more accessible than ever before.
What’s Next?
Work will now commence to bring this long-anticipated vision to life, with further details on the official launch date to be announced soon.
Statement from Prentice Wilkinson-Weir, Director of Honister Slate Mine
“Our family has worked at Honister for generations. My great-grandfather was a ‘riving’ slate at Honister during its Victorian heyday, when over 100 miners extracted 3,000 tonnes of Westmorland Green Slate a year, and the Lancaster Aerial was in full operation. We are a proud, local family business. The Lake District isn’t just where we work – it’s our home. We have lived and breathed this landscape all our lives, and our commitment to preserving its heritage is at the heart of everything we do.
“We continue to keep a rare, red-listed craft alive, producing Westmorland Green Slate for Historic England’s restoration projects across the UK. I want to reassure community that we will run the Lancaster Aerial sustainably and responsibly, just as we have done with every activity at Honister for over 15 years. This is not about changing the landscape; it’s about working with it – honouring the generations before us, just as my late father, Mark Weir, so passionately did when he revived the mine in 1997.
“We do not seek to negatively impact the valley or those who live here. We are part of this community, and our goal is to create a more positive environment where everyone benefits. The plans that have taken three years to develop will allow us to more efficiently extract waste from over 200 years of mining in an area currently inaccessible by vehicles. This eliminates the need for any building on the fellside and removes the necessity for mid-point works, allowing stone to be transported directly to the base and deposited into a dump truck in an area that is already used by machinery.
“Honister has always been a place of industry, resilience, and innovation. We remain committed to running it with care, responsibility, and respect for its past, present, and future.”
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