Easy hikes and walks around Coniston
4.6
(2858)
25,484
hikers
211
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Coniston are set within the southern Lake District, characterized by its dramatic natural landscape. The region features Coniston Water, one of England's largest lakes, surrounded by fells and extensive woodlands like Grizedale Forest. The area's industrial heritage, including former copper mines and slate quarries, also contributes to its distinctive terrain. This combination provides a variety of accessible paths for easy walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Coniston
- The most popular easy hiking route is Around Tarn…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.7
(48)
543
hikers
3.19km
00:51
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(33)
88
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(16)
158
hikers
4.89km
01:28
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
225
hikers
6.26km
01:36
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
98
hikers
2.40km
00:37
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Coniston is located at the northern end of the third largest lake in the Lake District: Coniston Water. Steam yacht cruises are offered on this lake. Coniston is said to be derived from the Old Norse words Konigs Tun or king's settlement. That king is said to have been Thorstein, a Viking who gave his name to Thurstinii Watra, the old name of Coniston Water. (Wikipedia)
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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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The Coniston Coppermines Waterwheel is a restored, fully functioning waterwheel in Coppermines Valley. Against the impressive backdrop of The Old Man of Coniston, it forms a central element of the area's 500-year-old copper mining history.
5
0
A beautiful waterfall, but difficult to view in the summer due to dense vegetation.
6
0
A little glimpse into the history of the area, worth a quick peep.
0
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The Ruskin Museum is an award-winning 'Cabinet of Curiosities' that tells the story of Coniston from the early Stone Age walkers, who made and traded stone axes, to the Jet Era of the 1950s and 60s, when speed hero Donald Campbell broke four world water records in the Bluebird K7 on Coniston Water. There has been a Ruskin Museum in Coniston since 1901, when W.G. Collingwood, a local artist and antiquarian who was Ruskin's secretary, founded it as a memorial to Ruskin and a celebration of the area's heritage. (The Ruskin Museum)
10
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Beautiful view of the mountains.
8
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there around Coniston?
Coniston offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails. Our komoot community has mapped over 70 easy routes in the area, providing plenty of options for gentle strolls and accessible paths.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy walks in Coniston?
Easy walks around Coniston typically feature tranquil lake shores, gentle fells, and historic industrial landscapes. You'll find paths through extensive woodlands like Grizedale Forest, alongside Coniston Water, and through areas marked by former copper mines and slate quarries. Many routes are part of the Lake District National Park's 'Miles Without Stiles' network, ensuring accessibility.
Are there any easy circular walks around Coniston?
Yes, Coniston is well-known for its picturesque circular routes suitable for easy hiking. A popular choice is Around Tarn Hows — Lake District National Park, a 2.0-mile (3.2 km) accessible path offering stunning views. Another option is the Coniston Village – Coniston Waterfall loop from Coniston, which is 2.6 miles (4.2 km).
What are the typical durations for easy hikes in Coniston?
The easy hikes around Coniston vary in length and duration. For example, the Around Tarn Hows route takes approximately 51 minutes, while the Tarn Hows, Tom Gill & Tom Heights loop is about 2.8 miles (4.5 km) and can be completed in around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Are there family-friendly easy hikes in Coniston?
Absolutely. Coniston is an excellent destination for family-friendly walks. The Around Tarn Hows route is particularly suitable, being a relatively flat and accessible circular walk. Many lakeside paths and woodland trails in Grizedale Forest are also ideal for families with children.
Can I bring my dog on easy hikes around Coniston?
Yes, many easy trails around Coniston are dog-friendly. The Lake District generally welcomes dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas. Always check specific route details for any restrictions and ensure you clean up after your pet.
Are there any waterfalls visible on easy hiking trails in Coniston?
Yes, you can encounter beautiful waterfalls on easy trails. The Coniston Village – Coniston Waterfall loop from Coniston specifically leads past the Coniston Waterfall. Additionally, the Coniston Coppermines valley, just a mile from the village, features cascading waterfalls amidst its industrial heritage. You can also explore highlights like Tom Ghyll Waterfalls.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features to see on easy walks?
Easy walks around Coniston offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. You can explore the picturesque Tarn Hows, visit the dramatic former quarry sites like Cathedral Cavern and Hodge Close Quarry, or discover the remnants of the Coniston Coppermines. The View of the Coniston Fells loop from Coniston offers scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Where can I find parking for easy hikes in Coniston?
Parking is available at various points around Coniston. For routes like those around Tarn Hows, there are dedicated National Trust car parks. For walks starting directly from Coniston village, there are public car parks available. Always check local signage for fees and restrictions.
What is the best time of year for easy walks in Coniston?
Coniston's easy trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers warmer weather and longer daylight hours, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Even in winter, many low-level paths remain accessible, offering a peaceful, crisp experience, though conditions can be wet or icy.
Are there any less crowded easy trails around Coniston?
While popular spots like Tarn Hows can get busy, exploring trails within Grizedale Forest or some of the lesser-known lakeside paths along Coniston Water can offer a quieter experience. The Connie – Coniston Village loop from Coniston is a shorter, gentle option that might be less frequented.
What do other hikers enjoy most about easy hiking in Coniston?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Coniston, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning views, the variety of accessible paths, and the blend of natural beauty with historical interest, particularly the tranquil lake shores and picturesque tarns.
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