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Honister Pass

Walk

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Mountain, Valley, Cliffs

Walking

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Raymond Knapman via Geograph.org.uk

Honister Pass is a high, steep road linking Borrowdale and Buttermere in the Lake District, climbing to over a thousand feet with gradients as sharp as one in four. At the top stands the Honister Slate Mine, the last working slate mine in England, still cutting green slate and offering underground t...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

7 day, 3 overnight

The Glaramara Hotel Bar – Seatoller, The Tea Room at Yew Tree Farm​, Syke Farm Tearoom​

Syke Farm Campsite

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Honister Pass?
Cumbria's rugged Lake District National Park hosts this high mountain road that cuts directly between two famous valley communities. Walkers encounter the dramatic highway while exploring the steep fells and slate mining areas in the regional highlands.

What type of place is Honister Pass?
Honister Pass is a steep mountain pass and walking route in Cumbria.

When is the best time to visit Honister Pass?
Spring through to autumn offers the most manageable weather conditions for navigating the extreme incline. Clear seasonal days show off the deep valley views to full effect before winter brings hazardous ice to the tarmac.

What can you do at Honister Pass?
Hikers regularly track along the old slate paths to discover hidden infinity pools near the summit. Active explorers also test their legs against the challenging grade or admire the massive grey crags towering overhead.

How long should I spend at Honister Pass?
Allowing a couple of hours gives you plenty of time to appreciate the high altitude scenery and explore the immediate summit paths. Serious hill walkers often need a full day to complete a proper loop across the adjacent ridges.

Where do I park at Honister Pass?
Motorists can use the ten spaces available nearby, which provide seven day and three overnight options. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Honister Pass?
The Glaramara Hotel Bar, Seatoller, The Tea Room at Yew Tree Farm, and Syke Farm Tearoom represent three places to find food in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Honister Pass?
Syke Farm Campsite offers a place to stay in the vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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