Keswick, Cumbria
Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum has been going for more than 25 years, three miles east of Keswick. The ticket includes the museum and a ride on the narrow gauge railway into the quarry, and the site is also home to the Vintage Excavator Trust, so there is a lot of large, old machinery for children to stare at. Mineral panning is £4 a go on top. There is no cafe, just takeaway drinks and snacks, so bring a picnic.
It is open 10 to 5 from the Easter holidays to the end of October half term, every day in the holidays and Tuesday to Sunday in term time. Adults are £9.50 and children £5.50, train included. The underground tours have stopped, so do not promise a mine. October half term 2026 is a steaming week, and Santa trains run on selected December dates.
What it costs: Admission including the museum and a train ride: adults £9.50, children under 16 £5.50, over 65s £9. Mineral panning £4 a pan, only with paid admission. Annual family pass £54 for two adults and two children (not valid for events or panning).
The quarry railway's last steaming week of the season: steam trains run on the holiday timetable, roughly hourly from 11 to 4, and the museum shuts for the winter afterwards. Normal admission, which includes the ride.
The quarry's railway runs Santa trains through December, seven departures a day from 10.15am. The page does not say what is included or what it costs, so check before you promise a present.
Seasonal: Easter to October half term, plus Santa trains in December. Check before travelling.
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