Coniston
Coniston, nestled in the heart of the Lake District
Coniston - Lake District
Different Levels of Walks
Coniston, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, offers a captivating blend of rugged mountains, sparkling tarns, and serene shorelines. In May 2026, join us for three days of guided walking adventures exploring the history of the Coniston Copper Mines, the peaceful Goat Tarn (low level), the tranquil Coniston shoreline, and the iconic peaks of Coniston Old Man & Dow Crag. Each day, we offer a choice of a Mountain or Lowland hike, tailored to the group and adjusted for the weather. From fascinating industrial history to sweeping Lakeland panoramas, this trip is as rich in stories as it is in scenery. Whether you’re seeking the challenge of the fells or a peaceful lakeside wander, this trip offers something for everyone, a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
The village of Coniston
The village of Coniston provides the perfect hub for exploration
Coniston
Your Base
The village of Coniston provides the perfect hub for exploration, a place where mountain energy meets the calm of the lakeside. With its welcoming cafés, cosy inns, and historic charm, it offers everything you need after a day on the trails. From the waterside views of Coniston Water to the backdrop of towering fells, this is the authentic and atmospheric heart of Lakeland life.
Bridge Cottages
Three interconnecting cottages in the heart of Coniston, accommodating up to 16 guests.
Accommodation
Bridge Cottages
Bridge Cottages – We have reserved this accommodation from Monday 4th to Friday 8th 2026. Ideally, this is where we would like you to book. The more who stay here, the cheaper the stay will be for you. Bedrooms 8, bathrooms 7. Max 16 persons, min 8. Plenty of scope to have single rooms, please bear in mind that this works out more expensive. Costs will vary from £300pp for the four nights. Three interconnecting cottages in the heart of Coniston, accommodating up to 16 guests. They feature spacious communal areas and two hot tubs. Check for availability.
YHA Coniston Holly How Hostel – A well-regarded YHA hostel offering private and ensuite rooms, as well as camping options, ideal if you’re seeking more affordable, flexible group accommodation.
Alternative Options in Coniston – There is a good range of other accommodation in the village, including hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering cottages, all within walking distance of the centre and the lake. These provide excellent alternatives if Bridge Cottages and the YHA are fully booked
Views towards Coniston
A place where mountain energy meets the calm of the lakeside.
Highlights
A choice of Walks
• Summit the Old Man of Coniston – One of the Lake District’s most iconic peaks, offering a rewarding climb and spectacular 360° views across the fells and down to Coniston Water. A true Lakeland classic that gives a real sense of achievement.
• Explore the Coppermines Valley – Step back in time as you walk through a landscape once alive with the sound of mining. Learn how this valley shaped local life and industry, with remnants of its copper-mining heritage still visible today amidst dramatic scenery.
• Enjoy tranquil optional lowland alternative routes – Follow the peaceful shoreline paths around Coniston Water, passing through ancient woodland and open meadows alive with wildlife. These gentler walks are perfect for those wanting to soak up the views and serenity at a relaxed pace.
View from Old Man Coniston
Mountain and Lowland options are available daily
Itinerary
Choices of Levels
Each day offers a new perspective on Coniston’s diverse landscapes — from high mountain ridges to tranquil lakeside paths. You’ll explore the area’s rich mining heritage, climb some of its most celebrated fells, and enjoy peaceful lowland routes through woodlands and along the water’s edge. With both Mountain and Lowland options available daily, you can choose the perfect adventure to match your energy and the conditions, ensuring a rewarding and memorable experience throughout.
The trip begins on Monday 4th with arrival, orientation, and settling into accommodation. On Tuesday 5th, the group enjoys a social hike and a guided tour of the Coniston Copper Mines, exploring the area’s mining heritage and scenic valley. Wednesday 6th offers two options: a mountain hike up Coniston Old Man and Dow Crag for a classic Lakeland experience, or a gentler lowland walk to Low–Goat Tarn and along the Coniston shoreline. Thursday 7th also features a choice between a mountain hike over Black Sails and Wetherlam, offering impressive views, or a varied lowland route from Coniston to Skelwith via Tarn Hows and Black Crags. The trip concludes on Friday 8th with breakfast and farewells before departure.
A path up to Old Man Coniston
Each day offers a new perspective on Coniston’s diverse landscapes
Terrain and Fitness
What you need to know.
Each day offers a new perspective on Coniston’s diverse landscapes — from high mountain tracks to tranquil lakeside paths. You’ll explore the area’s rich mining heritage, climb some of its most celebrated fells, and enjoy peaceful lowland routes through woodlands and along the water’s edge. With both Mountain and Lowland options available daily, you can choose the perfect adventure to match your energy and the conditions, ensuring a rewarding and memorable experience throughout.
• Mountain Walks (Grade 4/5): Expect a mixture of well-defined paths, rocky ascents, and uneven fell terrain. These walks require good general fitness and some experience of hill or mountain walking. Routes may include steady climbs, longer days, and varied surfaces underfoot, but no technical scrambling. Ideal for those confident on moderate-tochallenging terrain and comfortable walking for 5–7 hours.
• Lowland Walks (Grade 2/5): These routes follow lower-level paths, lakeside trails, and gentle woodland tracks with only modest ascents. A reasonable level of walking fitness is required, but no prior mountain experience is necessary. Walks are relaxed and steady, typically covering shorter distances on good paths, perfect for enjoying the scenery at a comfortable pace.
Samantha Armstrong
WALX Master and Mountain Leader
The Finer Points
We’re a guiding provider, not a tour operator. To keep your choices flexible and costs transparent, you’ll book and pay for your accommodation separately. We provide the guided programme only along with the logistics.
What this means: Guiding & programme fee — paid to us.
Accommodation —We arrange this together, or you can choose your own.
How to book (simple steps)
• Reserve your place on this trip with us with a non-refundable deposit of £50 with Samantha Armstrong
• Organise accommodation, liaising with WALX Derwent and Dales.
• See ‘How to prepare guide’, which is sent separately once booked.
Prices and Supplements ·Guiding Price: £ 295 pp for 3 days. ·
Management and logistics fee: £30 pp
·Accommodation Price: From £300 pp based on the price for Bridge Cottages. ·
Payment terms – Non-refundable deposit upon booking. Balance is due 8 weeks before the trip.
·We need a minimum of 6 for this trip to go ahead. We aim for a group size of 12 participants.
·Booking contact: WALX Derwent & Dales Samantha Armstrong Email: sam.derwentdales@walx.co.uk Phone: 07860 478409