This walk is a journey through the industrial heritage of the Lake District's slate mining industry. It's a route packed with adventure, from the dramatic, water-filled chasm of Hodge Close to the awe-inspiring Cathedral Cavern and the ancient packhorse bridge at Slater Bridge.
The Walk at a Glance
3 - 4 Hours
Incl. exploring
4 Miles / 6.5 km
Circular loop
Moderate
Uneven paths
Adventure Walk
Caves & Quarries
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Start in Tilberthwaite
Begin at the pay-and-display car park in Tilberthwaite valley. The walk follows quarry tracks and footpaths, starting with a gentle climb out of the valley.
2. Hodge Close Quarry
The path leads you to the edge of the immense and dramatic Hodge Close Quarry. Be extremely careful near the unfenced edges. From the main viewpoint, look for the skull-like reflection in the water on a calm day.
3. Descend to Cathedral Cavern
From Hodge Close, follow the path as it descends towards Little Langdale valley. Cross the road and follow signs for Cathedral Cavern. You'll enter through a short, dark tunnel (torch essential!).
4. Explore the Cavern
Emerge into the awe-inspiring main chamber of Cathedral Cavern. It's a huge cave with a central rock pillar and light streaming in from above. Explore the network of tunnels before exiting.
5. Slater Bridge and Return
After the cavern, the path leads to the ancient and picturesque Slater Bridge. Cross the River Brathay here before following the path on its final climb back over the hill to the Tilberthwaite car park.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Parking: Use the pay-and-display car park at Tilberthwaite (Postcode: LA21 8DG). Arrive early as it's small and fills up quickly.
- Safety First: This walk has serious hazards. Supervise children and dogs closely at all times near the unfenced quarry edges and deep water.
- Bring a Torch: A good torch (ideally one per person) is absolutely essential for exploring the dark tunnels of Cathedral Cavern safely.
- Suitability: This walk is an adventure, best for children aged 5+. The paths are rocky, uneven, and sometimes steep, so it is not suitable for pushchairs.
More to Explore Nearby
Little Langdale
Explore the beautiful and quiet valley of Little Langdale, home to the Three Shires Inn and the impressive Colwith Force waterfall.
Coniston Village
The nearby village of Coniston offers great pubs, cafes, and the Ruskin Museum. You can also take a boat trip on Coniston Water.
Hike the Old Man of Coniston
For a proper mountain day, the classic path up the Old Man of Coniston also starts from the village, passing through more old quarry workings.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Facilities: Excellent facilities are available at the car park, including toilets with baby changing and a tearoom serving light lunches, cakes, and drinks.
- Best After Rain: For the most dramatic experience, visit Aira Force after a period of heavy rain when the waterfall is at its most powerful.
- Wordsworth's Daffodils: Aira Force and the nearby shores of Ullswater were a favourite spot of William Wordsworth and inspired some of his most famous poetry, including "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud".
- Footwear is Key: The paths can be slippery and uneven, especially when wet. Sturdy, grippy footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.
More to Explore Nearby
Ullswater Steamers
From the nearby Glenridding pier, you can take a historic "steamer" boat across Ullswater. You can even disembark at Aira Force pier, combining the walk with a memorable lake cruise.
Climb Gowbarrow Fell
For a longer and more strenuous walk with incredible views, you can extend the Aira Force loop to include the summit of Gowbarrow Fell. This offers a panoramic vista over Ullswater.
Glenridding and Pooley Bridge
Explore the charming villages at either end of the lake. Glenridding is a hub for walkers tackling Helvellyn, while Pooley Bridge is perfect for a gentle stroll and a pub lunch by the river.