Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum - Image 1

Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum

Threlkeld, United Kingdom•4.5(713)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore quarrying and mining heritage with a narrow gauge railway ride, geological exhibits, and mineral panning activities in the scenic Lake District.

Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum, located three miles east of Keswick in the Lake District, offers families a unique blend of industrial heritage and hands-on experiences. The museum has been lovingly developed over 25 years and features a comprehensive geological and mining collection alongside the historic quarry site. Visitors can enjoy a 25-minute narrow gauge railway journey that runs into the old quarry, providing an unforgettable experience for all ages. The site showcases a unique collection of historic machinery and equipment, while the geological museum provides educational insights into the region's mining past. Families can participate in mineral panning activities, making it engaging for budding geologists and prospectors alike. The venue welcomes families with amenities including ample free parking, a shop, and food and drink facilities. School groups and students are welcome by arrangement, and special events throughout the year include Santa trains during December and Vintage Excavator Trust demonstration weekends. The museum operates seasonally from Easter holidays through October half term, with daily opening during school holidays and Tuesday-Sunday service during term time.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Snacks on Tracks

Hot snacks and cakes available at special events and weekends

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Google Reviews

4.5(713 reviews)
I
Imogen Hunt

Imogen Hunt

2 months ago

A fantastic treasure trove of old excavators and industrial heritage, as well as a very well researched geological/historical exhibition covering mining through the whole region. We greatly enjoyed the train rides, with all staff being super friendly and knowledgeable. There was also, in complete surprise to us, a demonstration day of some of the excavators doing some digging which was fantastic to see, hear and smell!

D
Douglas Meany

Douglas Meany

2 months ago

An interesting amuseum of excavators and diggers from last century. Many are rusty but still work. There is a Steam Navvy that is demi started occasionally. The site is quite extensive but there is a nice narrow gauge railway. Several good sites for picnics. Allow at least 2 hours to look around the indoor museum and all the many items of large machinery outside. We never saw a demonstration of mavhines working but we did arrive late afternoon as they were preparing to close. Something for all the family in a beautiful setting, surrounded by lake district hills. I will definitely go again if the weather is good.

M
Mark Bradley

Mark Bradley

3 months ago

Caught this place before it gets a big corporate overhaul next year. Glad we did. Earthy experience, which made it all the more memorable. Great little trip on the rickety railway. Guides were extremely knowledgeable and appeared to really love their job, which always helps. Like a trip back in time.

D
DEEPAK CHOWDEARY TDP

DEEPAK CHOWDEARY TDP

9 months ago

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum – A Fascinating Journey into the Earth’s History! Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum is an incredible place that brings geology and industrial heritage to life! Nestled in a scenic part of the Lake District, it’s a great spot for both adults and kids to explore and learn about mining history, machinery, and the fascinating world beneath our feet. The museum is well-organised, with detailed displays about the quarry’s past, tools, and minerals found in the region. One of the highlights is the underground mine tour — it’s short, safe, and gives a real sense of what life was like for miners working deep in the rock. The staff are very friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to share stories and explain things in detail. The outdoor area with large vintage mining machines is also impressive and fun to explore. I also bought a few mineral stones and crystals from their gift shop — they were beautiful, reasonably priced, and a lovely keepsake from the visit. If you love geology, history, or just want an interesting day out in nature with a bit of adventure, this museum is definitely worth visiting. A hidden gem in the Lake District! ⛏️💎🏔️

S
Sean Baxter (Rubiseany)

Sean Baxter (Rubiseany)

a year ago

A wonderful visit! Staff and volunteers were knowledgeable and engaging and showed a real pride to be there. I thoroughly enjoyed the railway and learning about its history and its exciting future. The museum was jam packed with information, exhibits, photographs and artefacts along with a quaint little gift shop. The quarry had tons of interesting and historic vehicles and equipment a short walk from the museum. Plenty of space for parking with a few benches to sit outside. Based on the customer service and the amount of stuff to see, I would highly recommend visiting!

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum

Is Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum free to visit?

Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum.

Is there parking at Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum?

Yes, Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum has on-site parking.

Is there food at Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum?

Yes — Snacks on Tracks is on site at Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum. Hot snacks and cakes available at special events and weekends

Is Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum?

Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum by public transport?

Threlkeld Quarry Station station is approximately 1 minute's walk from Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum.
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