The term ‘Via Ferrata’ is an Italian phrase meaning ‘iron path’. This is where a mountain scramble is protected throughout by a continuous cable that is fixed into the rock, so those with no previous climbing experience can enjoy an exciting ascent using minimal equipment. Each group member will wear a harness with a set of lanyards, so you will be clipping into the cable and moving continuously with your group, ascending natural rock, fixed ladders and metal rungs. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you can scale the heady heights of Fleetwith Pike via its sheer rock-face, or you can go deep underground into the historical heart of the mine. Honister’s award winning Via Ferrata was the first ever in the UK and this is also the last working Slate Mine, so you can experience the thrill of the scramble whilst walking in the footsteps of the old Cumbrian Miners and learning about the modern techniques that are employed to extract the green slate today.

Historically, the term Via Ferrata is largely associated with World War 1, when the Italian troops used fixed ropes, rungs and wooden ladders to allow them to move safely and swiftly up and down the steep cliffs of the Italian Dolomites, in a fierce battle to gain dominance of the ridge line. After the war, early alpine exploration led to an upgrading of this kind of protection across the Alps and Northern Italy, initially in order to access climbs and mountain summits but eventually leading to many new Via Ferrata routes being established as mountaineering challenges in their own right.

We have three fantastic Via Ferrata for you to choose from. The Classic is a straightforward scramble and a fairly gradual mountain ascent. The Xtreme is best for those with a good level of fitness and a head for heights, as it includes a continuous series of obstacles along the way. Climb The Mine is an awesome historical underground adventure, which is a perfect for a rainy day. Have a look through our list of options to decide on the best choice for you!