Situated on the western shore at the northern tip of Coniston Water, Coniston is a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors. 🌲
This charming village offers stunning lakeside views and plenty of hiking trails, making it a dream for avid walkers.
From towering fells and magical woodlands to peaceful tarns, rugged moorlands, and romantic lakeside paths, we’ve picked six of the very best hikes in the area.
Take on any of these trails, and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable adventure! 🥾
Best Walks In Coniston
Tarn Hows Walk
Kicking off with one of our personal favorites, many visitors are amazed to learn that Tarn Hows is actually man-made.
But that doesn’t take away from its picture-perfect beauty at all! 🌄
Fun fact – Beatrix Potter owned Tarn Hows until she passed, after which the National Trust took care of the Coniston estate.
The sparkling waters remain one of Lakeland’s most treasured spots – one glance at Tarn Hows and it’s easy to see why this gem is so loved! ✨
This easy, mostly flat loop around the tarn is perfect for families and fully accessible for wheelchair users.
A big hit with kids, keep an eye out for the mysterious coin-studded tree. Even better, bring a coin, place it in the tree, and make a wish! 🍀
Monk Coniston Lakeshore Path
A romantic lakeside trail winding toward Coniston, this peaceful hike starts at Monk Coniston Car Park and stays mostly flat.
End your walk with a tasty meal in town for the perfect reward! 🍴
Did you know? Coniston is one of the few towns in the National Park that has kept its original charm, avoiding the commercial rush of larger towns. 🌿
Once in Coniston, you can either retrace your steps or follow the road around the far end of the lake to return to Monk Coniston Car Park.
Top tip – hop on the Victorian steam boat from Coniston Pier for a scenic ride back!
This 84-foot-long historic, steam-powered boat, restored by the National Trust in 1980, is the perfect way to soak in the stunning lakeside views. 🚤
Old Man of Coniston
No guide to the best walks in Coniston is complete without mentioning its most iconic peak!
Towering above the charming village, the Old Man of Coniston reaches an impressive 2,633 feet, making it one of Lakeland’s tallest peaks. 🏔️
Drawing hikers from all over, this challenging peak is definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Once a busy quarrying site during the industrial revolution, Alfred Wainwright described the summit as
“…a proud and dignified bearing, shedding his tears quietly into a lovely tarn at the base of the summit escarpment.”
I couldn’t agree more!
With more than four main routes to the top, it’s smart to plan ahead and choose the trail that suits you best.
*Stay tuned – our Old Man of Coniston Walk Guide is coming soon! 🥾
Coniston Coppermine Waterfall Walk
For hikers seeking a unique adventure, take a 30-minute stroll from the heart of Coniston village to explore the historic Coniston Coppermine! 🏞️
Dating back to the sixteenth century, this mining hotspot hides a stunning waterfall tumbling down the mountainside. 🌊
The trail is easy and gentle, perfect for walkers of all levels. The hidden gorge at the waterfall is a bonus for anyone who loves a bit of wild swimming!
Hodge Close Quarry (and Cathedral Quarry) Walk
Just a few miles north of Coniston in the Lake District, Hodge Close Quarry awaits, ominously nicknamed “Skull Cave.” ⚡
It gained fame when visitors noticed the cave’s water reflecting a shape that eerily resembled a giant skull.
Although unofficially called Britain’s scariest cave, don’t let that put you off – the views here are absolutely breathtaking.
For the adventurous, a hidden scramble path leads straight into the heart of the quarry! 🧗♂️
Did you know? Hodge Close Quarry was recently a filming spot for Netflix’s fantasy hit series The Witcher! Be sure to check out our guide to all the Lake District Witcher locations. 🎬
With Cathedral Cave right next door, you can easily extend your walk and make a full day of exploring.
Word of warning – the scramble path down to Hodge Close Quarry can be tricky to locate, and the surrounding terrain is quite hazardous. ⚠️
Coniston to Hawkshead Walk
Hawkshead, an ancient market town, still shines with historic charm. 🏘️
Strolling through its quaint cottages feels like stepping back in time, and the car-free streets only add to the authentic experience.
The route between Coniston and Hawkshead is perfect for walkers, with footpaths winding through woodlands, open countryside, and gentle hills.
Longer than many other hikes, this trail stretches 6.5 miles each way, making a total of 13 miles if you complete it all on foot.
Passing Coniston Water, Hawkshead Moor, Low Park, and more, this trail is packed with scenic variety – but be ready for some tired legs afterward!
Coniston to Ambleside (via Tarn Hows)
For seasoned hikers, why not try this 8.5-mile one-way trek from Coniston to Ambleside? 🥾
Following part of the famous Cumbrian Way, the route passes Tarn Hows and Loughrigg Tarn before reaching the charming village of Ambleside.
Nestled north of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is also a great spot for wild swimming – the perfect way to end your hike with a refreshing dip in Lakeland’s iconic waters! 🌊
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