On arrival in Threlkeld, there’s one thing you can’t fail to notice – and that’s the imposing mountain that rears up behind it. This former lead and zinc-mining village nestles up against the dramatic, southern slopes of Blencathra, and is a popular starting point for walkers intent on climbing to its 2847ft (868m) summit.
But there’s more to Threlkeld than just Blencathra: it’s also home to two pubs, a community-run café, an outdoor activity centre and, on the other side of the A66, the Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum. The latter offers guided tours of a reconstructed mine, displays of mining and quarrying artefacts and short trips on a narrow-gauge railway.
