top of page

Slater’s Bridge

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Farmland, Riverside

Walking, Photography

Autumn

Photo: Jo Wood via Geograph.org.uk

Slater's Bridge is an old slate footbridge crossing the River Brathay in Little Langdale, in the Lake District, reckoned among the oldest and most photographed footbridges in the Lakes. Built by the quarrymen, the slaters, as a way to reach the slate quarries nearby, it has two parts: a low, narrow ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 6 overnight

The Three Shires Inn – Little Langdale, The Eltermere Inn – Elterwater, The Britannia Inn – Elterwater

Elterwater Hostel, Fox Corner, Springbank Cottage

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Slater’s Bridge?
Cumbria's famous Lake District National Park hosts this ancient packhorse crossing within the valley of Little Langdale. Walkers frequently encounter the site while exploring trails around the local fells and slate quarries.

What type of place is Slater’s Bridge?
Slater’s Bridge is an ancient handmade stone pedestrian crossing in Little Langdale within the Lake District.

When is the best time to visit Slater’s Bridge?
Autumn brings the finest conditions for capturing photographs and exploring the surrounding valley paths. Crisp morning light during this season provides a spectacular atmosphere before daily crowds arrive.

What can you do at Slater’s Bridge?
Hikers usually cross the narrow stone spine to follow historic paths toward nearby industrial sites like Cathedral Quarry. People also enjoy sitting by the River Brathay to listen to the rushing mountain water splashing over river boulders.

How long should I spend at Slater’s Bridge?
Spending about forty minutes allows plenty of time to explore the structure and snap some photographs. Anyone planning to combine the visit with a proper hike through the wider valley will need a few hours.

Where do I park at Slater’s Bridge?
Spaces for ten vehicles exist nearby, providing four day and six overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Slater’s Bridge?
The Three Shires Inn in Little Langdale, The Eltermere Inn in Elterwater, and The Britannia Inn in Elterwater offer three spots to find a meal in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Slater’s Bridge?
Elterwater Hostel, Fox Corner, and Springbank Cottage provide three options for an overnight stay close by. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app