Visit Coniston, it’s all about you!
If there is one thing we really appreciated about the lockdown, and we think a few of you reading might agree, it was having the time to take a step back and appreciate what’s important about life, (for one of us it was finally building his own pizza oven). It got me thinking how lucky we are to live in such a stunning place.
Since reopening it’s been great to see your happy faces enjoying what Coniston has to offer. For those that are yet to visit, or are in the midst of discovering self-appreciation like me, here are a few reasons why Coniston can be all about you.
Fitness.
A happy body means you’re on your way to a happy life (apparently). We’re all different, some of us may have used lockdown to get fit, rather than sit at a desk. Others may have seeked relaxation, time to unwind in the nice weather, or finally finish that TV series. No matter what your level of fitness is, Coniston is the perfect place for you. From any of the Lake District National Park Authority’s car parks around the village there is a walk for you. For a gentler stroll we suggest parking at our car park at Coniston Boating Centre and heading south along the footpath passing Coniston Sailing Club and Coniston Hall, if you follow the lakeshore footpath towards Torver you’ll even be able to get the Coniston Launch back to us.
If you don’t mind a bit of a climb for stunning views then head north from Coniston Boating Centre to Tarn Hows. This National Trust hotspot has breathtaking views of the Coniston and Langdale fells, and is the perfect spot for a picnic. If you’ve been loyal to your home workout plan, or you’ve completed the Couch to 5k and fancy a challenge, why not summit the Old Man of Coniston, one of the Lake District’s highest peaks. Park in any Lake District National Park Authority car park in the village and head west towards The Sun Inn, then follow the steep road up to where the mountain track begins. If you’re considering summiting the Old Man please be prepared and keep an eye on the weather forecast, conditions change fast and now isn’t a great time for our Mountain Rescue team.
Try something new.
We love a bit of a challenge at Coniston Boating Centre, a few of us took up open water swimming for last year’s Great North Swim at Brockhole. If you’d rather keep your head above water, we understand – it’s cold, then why not have a go at some of our watersports activities. We have paddleboards, kayaks, rowing boats and Canadian canoes for you to have a go at, plus we’re a friendly bunch so we’re always happy to give you some pointers so you can get the most out of your time. We’re ‘Good to Go’ to so all of our equipment is safe for you to use. Even if you’ve done it all before, Coniston is a fantastic lake to explore by paddle, why not find a new view that you’ll cherish forever? We also have toilets on site and our neighbours, The Bluebird Café, will welcome you in a setting made for Instagram!
Mental Health
Often not so easy to talk about, but gladly it’s becoming socially acceptable to look after your mind as much as your body, and what better place for a bit of self-appreciation than Coniston. I think of relaxation when thinking about looking after my brain. For those of you who have mastered the art of meditation or yoga then I envy you, Coniston has so many stunning places that you can switch off for hours. At Coniston Boating Centre we have our beach with the sounds of the waves, wildlife and the occasional hum of the ferry and the Steam Yacht Gondola. A short walk south from us and you’ll be lost in ancient woodland, perfect for forest bathing and reconnecting with nature.
Why not relax on the water? You’re in the Lake District after all! Nothing beats bobbing about on boats, at Coniston Boating Centre we have comfy and clean electric motor boats for hire, perfect for relaxing on in the deeper parts of the lake, miles away from anyone. My personal favourite has got to be taking a kayak or a paddleboard out to the middle of the lake and taking a moment to drift along; it’s an incredible feeling to be so close to the water, yet nice and dry in the sunshine, spotting the fish come to the surface and the birds swooping for food. Be careful not to drift too far however, remember you have to paddle back!
Find out more about our boat hire and watersports hire.
We look forward to welcoming you and hearing your stories!
