The best running trails around Coniston
4.2
(29)
3,890
runners
122
runs
Jogging around Coniston offers diverse terrain within the Lake District, characterized by its prominent lake, Coniston Water, and surrounding fells. The region features challenging mountain paths, including routes up The Old Man of Coniston, alongside more accessible woodland and lakeside trails. Varied landscapes, from ancient slate quarries to picturesque tarns like Tarn Hows, provide a range of running environments.
Best jogging routes around Coniston
- The most popular jogging route is The Old Man of Coniston & Wetherlam loop from Coniston, an 8.6 miles (13.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 2 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers significant elevation gain and views over the fells.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Tarn Hows loop — Lake District National Park, an easy 1.9 miles (3.0 km) path. This route circles the picturesque Tarn Hows, providing a relatively flat and scenic run through woodlands.
- Local runners also love the The Old Man, Weatherlam & the Coppermines loop from Coniston — Lake District National Park, a 10.3 miles (16.6 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain and historical mining sites, often completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Jogging around Coniston is defined by its prominent lake, challenging fells, and accessible tarns. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy lakeside paths to difficult mountain ascents.
- The routes in Coniston are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 3,400 runners have used komoot to explore Coniston's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
163
runners
13.8km
02:02
930m
930m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
122
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
runners
3.01km
00:19
30m
30m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
runners
4.09km
00:30
80m
80m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
387
runners
37.0km
04:34
1,040m
1,050m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Around 1590, the Company of Mines Royal began extracting copper from the Coniston copper veins. The first work was carried out entirely by hand. With brute force, the rock face was broken and tunnels were excavated very slowly. Only enough rock was removed to allow one person to pass through the tunnel, and these access tunnels are called 'coffin levels' because of their characteristic coffin shape. Excavating a 17th-century tunnel like Cobbler's Level could still take three years. The Elizabethan Company of Mines Royal was led by German experts from the Tyrol and Bavaria. Their mines penetrated more than 55 metres into the earth. Work continued after the English Civil War, but perhaps not to a great extent. At the end of the 17th century, gunpowder was introduced, which changed everything. Work went much faster and mines could go much deeper than before, up to more than 90 metres below the surface. The charges were placed in a hole drilled into the rock using 'jumpers', iron rods made on site. You can still see hand-drilled shot holes. Gunpowder was replaced by dynamite in 1877 and jumpers by compressed air drills in 1883. (Lake district national park)
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To describe this mountain, here is a quote: "Although cruelly scarred and disfigured by the quarries, the Old Man has retained a dignified bearing and still lifts his proud and venerable head to the sky. His tears flow quietly into Low Water and Goats Water, two beautiful mountain tarns, whence they eventually... find their way to Coniston Water, bathing his ancient feet." Alfred Wainwright, "A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, Book Four: The Southern Fells"
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Beautiful view of Langdale Valley, enjoy it.
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Very much one of the iconic mountains of the Lake District, Wetherlam is a rugged 763-metre (2,502 ft) mountain top, and getting here is pretty hard work from any direction. It has a rocky summit plateau, and the views across towards the Coniston group are super nice. Now for the big decent!
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A little glimpse into the history of the area, worth a quick peep.
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It’s a hard ride up if you’re not used to it, but it’s worth it to THUNDER down the other side 👍🤣
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Elter Wate is a small mountain lake near the village of the same name
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With a summit height of 2,502 feet (763 m), Wetherlam offers a truly rewarding hiking experience amidst the stunning mountain scenery of the Lake District. From the top, enjoy expansive views of the Coniston Fells, Little Langdale, and the picturesque patchwork of green valleys that give the region its timeless charm. https://www.tellpopeyes.it.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Coniston?
Coniston offers a wide variety of running routes, with nearly 120 different trails documented on komoot. These range from easy lakeside paths to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
Are there any easy jogging routes suitable for beginners or families in Coniston?
Yes, Coniston has several accessible and easy jogging routes. A popular choice is the Tarn Hows loop — Lake District National Park, which is an easy 3.0 km (1.9 miles) path circling the picturesque Tarn Hows. This relatively flat route is ideal for a scenic run through woodlands.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Coniston's running trails?
Coniston's running trails offer diverse terrain, from the relatively flat, scenic shores of Coniston Water and the woodlands around Tarn Hows, to challenging mountain paths up fells like The Old Man of Coniston. You'll encounter ancient slate quarries, historical mining sites, and varied landscapes shaped by volcanic action.
Are there any circular running routes in the Coniston area?
Many of Coniston's routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Tarn Hows Ranger Run is an easy 4.1 km (2.5 miles) circular path, perfect for a scenic loop.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I might see while running in Coniston?
While running in Coniston, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The dramatic Old Man of Coniston summit offers incredible views. You might also pass through old slate quarries and historical mining sites. The charming Coniston village itself, with its traditional stone buildings, is a pleasant starting or finishing point for many runs.
Are there challenging trail running options for experienced runners in Coniston?
Absolutely. Coniston is renowned for its challenging fell running. Routes like The Old Man of Coniston & Wetherlam loop from Coniston, an 8.6-mile (13.8 km) trail with significant elevation gain, provide a demanding experience for seasoned trail runners.
What do other runners say about the jogging routes in Coniston?
The running routes in Coniston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging fells to accessible tarns, and the stunning views over Coniston Water and the surrounding landscapes.
Can I find running routes that pass by water features like lakes or tarns?
Yes, Coniston Water is a central feature, and many routes offer scenic views or run along its shores. Additionally, Tarn Hows provides a picturesque setting for a run around its tranquil waters, surrounded by woodlands.
Are there any long-distance running routes available from Coniston?
For those seeking longer distances, Coniston offers routes like the challenging Elterwater Lake – Tarn Hows loop from Holme Fell, which spans approximately 37 km (23 miles). This route provides a significant endurance test with substantial elevation changes.
What are the best times of year to go running in Coniston?
Coniston is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant running conditions with milder temperatures and stunning scenery. Summer can be warm, while winter runs require appropriate gear for potentially cold and wet conditions, especially on higher fells.
Are there any routes that explore the historical mining areas around Coniston?
Yes, you can explore the region's rich mining history on routes such as The Old Man, Weatherlam & the Coppermines loop from Coniston. This 16.6 km (10.3 miles) trail leads through mountainous terrain and past historical mining sites, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage.
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