Business Details
34 Years
experience
Explore Industrial Heritage at Threlkeld Quarry
We are a heritage museum dedicated to preserving the industrial history of quarrying and mining in the Lake District. Established in 1992, our site combines a working narrow-gauge railway with extensive collections of vintage excavators and mining equipment. Our knowledgeable volunteer team has spent decades restoring historic machinery and creating educational exhibits that explore geological processes, quarrying techniques, and mineral extraction. Through guided tours, interactive displays, and special events, we provide visitors with unique insights into the region's industrial past. Our railway operations, featuring both steam and diesel locomotives, offer rides through the historic quarry landscape.We actively engage in conservation projects while maintaining strong ties with local heritage organisations. Our educational programs cater to school groups, offering hands-on learning experiences about geology and industrial archaeology. We host regular demonstration weekends where visitors can see vintage machinery in operation. Our new museum building project continues to expand our exhibition spaces and visitor facilities. We maintain strong community connections through volunteer opportunities and partnerships with local businesses.
Services
Museum entry
Railway rides
School trips
Mineral panning
Events
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer unique access to working vintage industrial machinery
- Our volunteer team includes experts with decades of industry experience
- We provide hands-on educational experiences for school groups
- We combine railway heritage with mining and geological education
- We host regular machinery demonstration weekends for immersive learning
What people say
Unique collection
Knowledgeable volunteers
Educational value
Working machinery
Scenic location
Services
Museum entry
Explore our extensive collection of mining and quarrying equipment, geological displays, and historical exhibits. The admission includes access to all museum galleries, interactive exhibits, and our working railway. Visitors can learn about the region's industrial heritage through curated displays and expert interpretation.
Railway rides
Experience our narrow-gauge railway operating with both steam and diesel locomotives. The 25-minute journey takes visitors through the historic quarry landscape, offering unique perspectives of the industrial heritage site. Trains operate on regular schedules during museum opening hours.
School trips
Our educational programs provide curriculum-linked learning experiences for primary and secondary school groups. Activities include guided tours, mineral panning, and interactive sessions about geology and industrial history. We accommodate up to 40 children per day with structured educational programs.
Mineral panning
Try your hand at mineral panning in our dedicated area. This hands-on activity allows visitors to experience the techniques used by prospectors. Available as an additional activity with museum admission, particularly popular with younger visitors.
Events
Join us for special events featuring working machinery demonstrations, heritage railway operations, and themed celebrations. Our annual program includes steam weekends, excavator demonstrations, and seasonal events like Santa Specials during December.
Questions
What are the museum's opening hours?
We're open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm during the season (Easter to end of October half term).
Are railway rides included in admission?
Yes, railway rides are included with museum admission. Special steam train times operate during school holidays.
Can I visit with a school group?
Yes, we offer tailored educational visits for schools with activities covering geology, mining history, and industrial heritage.
Are there dining facilities?
We offer hot and cold drinks with picnic areas. Food is available during special events.
Is the museum accessible?
Our site has uneven surfaces and slopes. Some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users, but we provide accessible options.
Can I volunteer at the museum?
Yes, we welcome volunteers to help with operations, maintenance, and visitor services. Contact us for opportunities.
