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Banishead Quarry

Quarry

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Mountain, Valley, Cliffs

Walking, Wildlife Watching, Climbing

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Karl and Ali via Geograph.org.uk

Banishead Quarry is a disused slate quarry high on the fells above Torver, near Coniston in the Lake District. The old workings have flooded into a deep, dark pool held in by rock walls, and a waterfall pours over the lip into it, loud and constant. The fall is not natural: the beck that feeds it wa...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 6 overnight

Undercrag Studio & Café​, The Church House Inn – Torver, The Wilson Arms, Torver​

Springbank Cottage, Fellfoot Cottage

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Banishead Quarry?
Cumbria contains this remarkable spot up on the slopes of the Coniston fells. Hikers usually head up the track from a nearby village to reach it.

What type of place is Banishead Quarry?
Banishead Quarry is a disused slate mine and nature reserve in Cumbria.

When is the best time to visit Banishead Quarry?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for walking the mountain paths. Clear morning light provides excellent conditions before any rain clouds gather over the peaks.

What can you do at Banishead Quarry?
Climbers regularly test their skills on the steep vertical rock routes. Many people also enjoy walking along the trail to watch the waterfall tumble into the flooded pool.

How long should I spend at Banishead Quarry?
Allowing roughly an hour provides plenty of time to take photos and see the falls. Anyone wishing to tackle a longer circular hike around the surrounding fells should plan for a full morning.

Where do I park at Banishead Quarry?
Space exists for ten vehicles nearby, split across four day and six overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Banishead Quarry?
Undercrag Studio & Café, The Church House Inn – Torver, and The Wilson Arms, Torver offer three spots to grab a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Banishead Quarry?
Springbank Cottage and Fellfoot Cottage provide two options for an overnight stay in the local area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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