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Cathedral Quarry

Quarry

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Mountain, Valley, Caves

Walking, Photography, Climbing

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Ian Taylor via Geograph.org.uk

Cathedral Quarry is a disused slate working between Little Langdale and Tilberthwaite in the Lake District, entered through an old miners' tunnel. The main chamber, known as the Cathedral, rises around forty feet to a vaulted roof, with a freestanding rock pillar in the middle and two window-like op...

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 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Cathedral Quarry?
Cumbria's famous Lake District National Park shelters this historic site within a spectacular valley. Walkers usually find the entrance hidden among trees while exploring the local fells.

What type of place is Cathedral Quarry?
Cathedral Quarry is a disused slate quarry in Little Langdale in the Lake District.

When is the best time to visit Cathedral Quarry?
Spring through to autumn brings the finest weather for navigating the surrounding walking trails. Shifting afternoon sunlight during these warmer months creates a brilliant atmosphere inside the cavern.

What can you do at Cathedral Quarry?
Exploring the underground tunnels with a reliable torch offers an incredible adventure. Many people also photograph the massive rock pillar that supports the main chamber ceiling.

How long should I spend at Cathedral Quarry?
Allocating roughly an hour provides enough time to see the main cavern safely. Serious hikers often combine this subterranean stop with a larger circular walk around the valley.

Where do I park at Cathedral Quarry?
Vehicles can use the ten available spaces nearby, which provide four day and six overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Cathedral Quarry?
The Three Shires Inn, The Eltermere Inn, and The Britannia Inn offer three dining choices in the surrounding area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Cathedral Quarry?
Elterwater Hostel, Fox Corner, and Springbank Cottage provide three places to stay nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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