Educational Groups
HANDS-ON LEARNING IN AN EPIC LAKE DISTRICT LANDSCAPE
Real history, in the real location, told by people who actually know it. No glass cases. No textbook diagrams. Just the mountain and the stories it has to tell.
The classroom 600ft inside a mountain
Discover the stories of the people, the place and the environment that shaped England's only working slate mine. 450 million years of geology. 300 years of human grit. Our experienced guides bring it to life in the tunnels where it happened, and we'll work with you to build the right experience for your group, whatever the age range or curriculum focus.
In the know
Our guides have deep knowledge of Honister's history, geology and mining heritage. The kind of expertise you can't get from a worksheet.
Built around you
We'll work with you to design the right experience for your group, age range, curriculum links, timings and group size all taken into account.
The past brought to life
Real human stories that still resonate, from the men who worked this mine to the family who brought it back from the brink.
Everything you should know
Before you book, here's what you need. From packages and fitness levels to food, drink, and what's on-site, it's all here.
Activity
Mine Tours
The core educational experience, underground, immersive and genuinely unlike any classroom lesson.
Optional
Adventure activities
Combine the Mine Tour with a guided adventure activity for a full curriculum-plus-challenge day.
Planning
We'll work with you
Tell us your group size, age range and learning objectives. We'll help design the right day.
Get in touch
Group size
All group sizes
We accommodate school groups of all sizes. Get in touch to discuss logistics and timing.
Duration
Half or full day
Free parking, on-site toilets with baby changing, free WiFi and the Bait Cabin Café. Everything you need without having to think about it.
Facilities
On-site parking
Free parking for coaches and minibuses. Bait Cabin Café on site. On-site toilets available.
Real people. Real memories.
Stories from the summit
"It's the scariest, but best thing I've ever done."
Andrea C via TripAdvisor · ★★★★★
"We visited the Honister Slate mine on a school trip. All loved the Via Ferrata experience. Our guide Andy made it great fun and we all enjoyed learning about the history and natural landscape."
Keith T.
Via TripAdvisor
Got Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Get in touch and we'll sort you out.
A combination of award-winning adventure activities plus food. Half-day or full-day options including Via Ferrata Xtreme, Climb the Mine, The Infinity Bridge and more.
Yes. Bespoke packages tailored to activities, timing and catering. Get in touch and we'll sort you out.
Call 01768 777230, email info@honister.com or fill in the enquiry form.
A reasonable level of fitness helps, but this isn't a race. Climb the Mine is designed to be challenging and achievable, your guide sets the pace and supports everyone through the course.
Yes - Taxis are available from Penrith (26 miles away) and Workington (24 miles).
Some local providers are:
- Davies Taxis (01768 772676)
- Iain's Taxis (01768 736333)
Climb the Mine runs in all weather, you're underground! It's actually one of the best things to do on a rainy Lake District day.
Wear or bring sturdy boots or strong shoes. All essential equipment: harness, helmet, head torch, is provided by Honister on arrival. Dress in comfortable layers you don't mind getting dirty.
Our Bait Cabin Cafe is open daily serving a selection of hot food, cold drinks and beverages.
Get started
Plan your educational visit
Get in touch and we'll work with you to build the right experience for your group.