JUN 2023 – 8 MILES – THE OLD MAN OF CONISTON (CONISTON, LAKE DISTRICT)

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It is time for a more challenging hike with family, decided on this one as it is one of the Wainwrights that my sister had on her to do list. I have done this one but it was a good 6 years ago when I was much fitter, there are multiple routes up to this point. I routed this one so we also had plenty of time for a good pub grub at the end, also taking into account if a rain storm did come in. The weather looked good for the morning and forecast for a rain storm about 2pm.

Total Distance: 8.13 Miles
Steps: ~30,000 Steps
Highest Point: 2625 Feet
Total Realistic Time: ~6 Hours

The Old Man of Coniston is a fell in the Furness Fells of the Lake District in Cumbria, England, and is the highest point (county top) of the historic county of Lancashire. It is at least 2,632.62 feet (802.42 m) high, and lies to the west of the village of Coniston and the lake, Coniston Water. The fell is sometimes known by the alternative name of Coniston Old Man, or simply The Old Man.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Man_of_Coniston

Car parking was £4 for all day parking at the time at Coniston Sports and Social Parking.  Not a huge car park so an early start makes sure you get a parking spot.  It is a camp site area so there are shower and toilet facilities. It is a short walk to Coniston village.

This is the path I routed, clear loose stone and slate path most of the way with gorgeous views of the hills afar. Headed towards The Old Man of Coniston via Low Water, start along the left side working round through the copper mine then heading back down via Levers Water.

Coniston village
A kind gentleman holding the gate open for me 😉
Started off with an easy walk via Coniston village to the Copper Mine Valley

Beautiful landscape views

Simon says
Getting to the greener parts heading towards the steep climb up

Many having a dip here to cool down
This is where the slow steep climb starts at Low Water

View before we headed further up

It was tough going, I got cramp in my right calf and then I also got cramp in both of my thighs for some reason whilst going up. After some salty snacks from “tuck shop sis” I felt much better 😉 The ascent to 2600 feet, I did not realise how tough it would be, the ascent went on what seems like forever before we got to the top. We finally made it, and it was so worth the pain for that view.

There is The Old Man we are heading to (on the top right)
Finally here (phew)

We got a very good view at the top, it was so clear.

We made it to The Old Man of Coniston and what a sight

The hills at the back is so mesmerising

On the descent down towards Levers Water as the rain clouds come in over The Old Man

The descent was hard going on the knees, especially with the loose stones did not help, a good work out.

A-ha singing in the hills (if only)

On the way back to Coniston village

We made it back in time for some pub grub. We went into the Black Bull Inn and Hotel, the nearest pub on the way back as we were very hungry and thirsty now. A well deserved pint for everyone.

Conclusion:

All in all it was a great day, some parts were challenging however this made it even more rewarding to accomplish. Refreshing weather in parts which was much needed. Great to see family for a good catch up and good food.

GENERAL EQUIPMENT

  • Apple iPhone 12 Pro (for taking photos/videos and mapping using OS Maps)
  • Comfy walking shoes (most important)
  • Flask with Hot/Cold drink (a good cuppa is always welcome)
  • ibuprofen (helping hand if you have any aches and pains)
  • Food and snacks (fuel to keep you going)

 

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