Coniston attractions
There's so much to do either on or along one of the Lake District's most beautiful stretches of water.
Coniston Boating Centre
We're just half a mile from Coniston village on the shores of Coniston Water. There's parking, or arrive by launch. Our How to find us page has all the details.
Things to do:
- Hire an electric self-drive boat or rowing boat
- Hire a sailing dinghy or learn to sail
- Go canoeing or kayaking
- Picnic on the lake shore
- Check out other lake attractions like cafe, launches and adventure activities.
Bluebird cafe by the lake
This tearoom is named after Donald Campbell's famous boat and is on the lake shore next to the Coniston Boating Centre.
It offers an idyllic location to enjoy freshly prepared food, homemade cakes or just an icecream or beer. Find out more at the Bluebird Cafe's website (opens in new window).
Coniston Launches
There are solar electric boats to seven jetties around the lake. Boats leave Coniston daily at half past every hour from 10.30am, with regular trips across to Brantwood. Special cruises include "Swallows and Amazons" and "Campbells on Coniston". More details on Coniston Launches website (opens in new window).
Steam yacht 'Gondola'
This rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht will transport you back to an era of peace and tranquillity. It sails every day (weather permitting) with round trips taking approximately 45 minutes from Coniston, calling at Brantwood jetty. Read more on National Trust "Gondola" website (opens in new window).
The Ruskin Museum
Since 1901 this museum has celebrated both John Ruskin and the area's heritage. Find out more in the Ruskin Museum (opens in new window)
Brantwood - John Ruskin's home 1872 - 1900
The former home of the influential writer, artist and social commentator John Ruskin is one of the most beautifully situated house in the Lake District. There's family fun on offer with house and garden trails. For opening times and more information, check out Brantwood website (opens in new window).
Summitreks
Summitreks Adventure Services has been offering kayaking and canoeing tuition on Coniston Water for 20 years. They are fully licensed for activities such as mountain biking, abseiling, rock climbing, kayaking and canoeing.
Sessions are available for all ages, individuals and groups, novice to advanced. Check out Summitreks website (opens in new window).
Latest news and events in Coniston
Please take a look at the Coniston Attractions website (opens in new window).