Name: Coniston Water
Rating: 5.0

Coniston Water

Coniston Waters, Lake District, Coniston Village , Cumbria, LA21 8EW, England

1-90 Years

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Description

Coniston Water is the fifth-largest lake in the Lake District, known for its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Stretching around five miles long, it is surrounded by mountains including the Old Man of Coniston. The lake is a popular destination for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as boat hire, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic lake cruises. Attractions include the Steam Yacht Gondola, Coniston Launch, and the nearby village of Coniston with cafés and shops. The lake also features small islands like Peel Island, famously linked to Swallows and Amazons.

Access to Coniston Water is free of charge. However, activities such as boat hire, cruises, and parking may involve additional costs.

Coniston Water offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor experiences. It is ideal for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. With its scenic views and variety of activities, it provides a memorable and relaxing day out.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Coniston Water, the fifth-largest lake in the Lake District, is five miles in length and reaches depths of up to 184 feet. Set amid some of the Lake District’s most iconic scenery, Coniston Water is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
The pretty village of Coniston is just a short walk from the lake. Above its western shore, the mountain of the Old Man of Coniston towers above the lake and the village.
The lake is half a mile down from the village, where you can hire boats and bikes from Coniston Boating Centre. There are shops, pubs and places to eat in the village, a range of guest houses, B&Bs and holiday cottages in Coniston and nearby.

What to see

Boat hire and boat cruises on Coniston Water

Coniston Boating Centre: Have family days out on Coniston water. Book boat hire; motorboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, electric bikes and more. Our staff will help you make the most of your adventure, Bluebird Café has delicious food and drinks.
Coniston Launch: The Coniston Launch has various cruises around the lake. It sails from Coniston Boating Centre, with stops at Brantwood and other jetties around the lake. Sails all year round, but not every day, November to February.
Steam Yacht Gondola: Steam down the lake on the rebuilt Victorian Yacht, run by the National Trust. Sails from spring into autumn until the end of October.
Map and guide to Coniston Water: Our printable map of Coniston Water shows you where to park, where to hire boats, footpaths and cycle routes, where to catch a boat trip from, and of course where to hire your boats and bikes at Coniston Boating Centre.

Coniston Water Islands

Peel Island: Peel island is famously linked to Arthur Ransome’s classic children’s novel, Swallows and Amazons: it is thought to have inspired “Wild Cat Island. It is popular with kayakers and canoeists who enjoy its small beach and tranquil surroundings. Although private, its natural beauty makes it a well-loved feature of the lake.
Fir Island: Fir Island, the smallest of the three, is a more secluded and peaceful spot. Situated near the northern end of Coniston Water, it is covered with dense vegetation, providing a quiet refuge for local wildlife. Its inaccessibility make it less visited, allowing it to remain largely undisturbed.
Oak Island: Oak Island, positioned toward the southern end of the lake, is slightly larger than Fir Island but smaller than Peel Island. Like the others, it is cloaked in trees and greenery. While not as prominent in literary or historical references as Peel Island, it is still a charming feature of Coniston Water.