Explore Lakeland’s industrial past as you discover the links between geology, quarrying and the 400-year history of metal ore mining.
Threlkeld quarry was opened in the 1870’s by Mr H Harkewitz, a man of German descent, to supply railway ballast to the Penrith-Keswick line. Initial output was a few hundred tons per year, but by 1894 this had risen to 80,000 tons to satisfy demand.
Take a ride on a steam locomotive ‘Sir Tom’, enjoy the fantastic views of Blencathra or try your hand at panning for minerals in the stream!
Situated 3 miles outside of Keswick, the quarry and museum have been lovingly run by their knowledgeable and dedicated volunteer staff for over 25 years, and the site and collections continue to expand! The museum is open from the start of the of the Easter Holidays to the end of October Half Term.
There are plenty of activities on offer, including:
- A narrow gauge railway that runs into the old quarry- the trip lasts around 25 minutes.
- A comprehensive geological and mining museum.
- The quarry site with a unique collection of machinery.
- Mineral panning
There is plenty of parking on site, and light refreshments are available from ‘Snacks on the Tracks’.
Looking for accommodation in Threlkeld? Take a look at our range of properties nearby.
AT A GLANCE:
Booking: There is no need to pre-book tickets, just turn up on the day. However, tickets do need to be booked for the very popular Santa trains.
Dogs: Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum allow well behaved dogs on the Museum site, Museum building and on the train.
