Southern Lake District Guided Walking Tour 2024/2025

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Oct 11, 2024 - Last spots!
From$2,350 pp
Oct 11, 2024 - Last spots!
From$2,350 pp
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dhtour@dhtour.ca

8 Days / 7 Nights
Availability : April to November
Start: Monk Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria, England
End: Monk Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria, England
Southern Lake District Guided Walking Tour: 7 nights based at Monk Coniston, Conistonwater, Cambria, Southern Lake District

Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.

Adored for its magnificent fells, wooded hills, postcard-pretty villages, and stunning views, the Southern Lake District never fails to impress. This guided walking holiday rewards with lakeside and woodland trails, visit-worthy historic attractions, and comfortable accommodation in our country house overlooking Coniston Water. You’ll find plenty of sightseeing greats nearby, including Lake Windermere – the largest natural lake in England at 10.5 miles long, one mile wide, and 220 feet deep.

DetailVersion 1
ItineraryVersion 2
ItineraryVersion 3
ItineraryDates & PricesHotel
DescriptionMapPhotos
Tour Details

Highlights:

  • Enjoying the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Lake District
  • Exploring places that inspired William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter
  • Visiting charming Lakeland villages
  • Spending time with like-minded people in the great outdoors
  • Finding new routes and places to explore with your Leader
  • Staying at Monk Coniston, our Grade II-listed country house

Pick Up Location & TIme

Monk Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria LA21 8AQ (Google Map)
4:00pm – You’re welcome to check into the country house hotel from 4pm onwards.

Drop off Location & Time

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way onward.

Price Includes

  • High quality en-suite upgraded accommodation at Monk Coniston
  • Excellent food in our country house, full board (B,L,D daily)
  • The services of our knowledgeable leader, ensuring you get the most from your holiday
  • 5 days guided walking + 1 free day
  • Choice of up to three guided walks each walking day
  • Transport to and from the walks
  • Use of our comprehensive Discovery Point

Meals

  • 7 breakfasts
  • 6 lunches
  • 7 dinners
  • 1 tea

Price Excludes

  • Airfare
  • Transfers
  • Pre / Post hotel nights
  • Travel to/from the Country Hotel (The nearest railway stations is Windermere)
  • Admissions (please allow approx. £10 per day for entrances)
  • Driver / Tour Leader gratuity is at your discretion
  • Travel Insurance
What to Expect
Southern Lake District Guided Walking Tour Walking Grade: 2, 3 & 5.

Enjoy a full day’s walking with fellow guests and leave all the planning and navigation to us; it’s what we do best. Nobody knows the UK’s best places to walk like us. Our knowledgeable leaders make sure you’re never short of the inside story on local features, viewpoints and places of interest.

  • Unpack once
  • Accommodation at a country house hotel
  • Full Board Meals – from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day
  • Knowledgeable leader
  • Choice of up to 3 walks per walking day with required transport

On our Guided Walking holidays, we believe that choice is key. Our walks descriptions will help you choose according to your interests and fitness. The walks are grouped together with care by local experts to give the best experience. 

Walking Grades Explained:

  • Grades 1 & 2 – Leisurely walking grades
  • Grades 3 & 4 – Moderate walking grades
  • Grades 5 & 6 – Challenging walking grades
What to Bring

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong type of clothing!” goes the adage. Come prepared for all eventualities and you’ll walk in comfort as well as safety. Britain’s famous for its changeable weather, so here’s our advice on what to wear and bring.

Essentials

  • Waterproof walking boots providing ankle support and good grip.
  • A waterproof jacket and over-trousers
  • Gloves and a warm hat (it can be chilly at any time of the year)
  • Rucksack
  • Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
  • A small torch (everywhere in winter, year round in mountains)
  • Sun hat and sunscreen
    Denim jeans and waterproof capes are not suitable on any walks.

Recommended

  • Several layers of clothing, which can be added or removed
  • Specialist walking socks to avoid blisters.
  • A first aid kit inc plasters– your leader’s first aid kit doesn’t contain any medication
  • Sit mat (insulated pad to sit on when you stop for a break)

You might also want

  • Walking poles, particularly useful for descents.
  • Insect repellent
  • Flask for hot drinks
  • Rigid lunch box
  • Gaiters
  • Blister kit (eg Compeed) just in case
  • Waterproof rucksack liner
Version 1 Itinerary

Day 1Arrival Day

You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (T, D)

Day 2Tarn Hows and Wetherlam

Option 1 – Tarn Hows and Yew Tree Farm

Distance: 6.5 miles (10km) 

Total ascent: 800 feet (260m) 

In summary: Explore the charming countryside surrounding Monk Coniston and visit the picturesque Tarn Hows, a famous beauty spot.  

Highlight: The picturesque views around Tarn Hows look like they are straight out of the pages of a Victorian tourist guide. 

Option 2 – Tarn Hows and Hole Rake

Distance: 8 miles (13km) 

Ascent: 1,775 feet (540m) 

In summary: We head out of the House, up through Hill Fell Plantation, to reach the picturesque Tarn Hows. From above the tarn, we then take a quiet path down to view the iconic Yew Tree Farm. Onto a bridleway and a short section of road, before we cut up across the hillside, over a couple of short rocky sections, on to the deep chasm of Tilberthwaite Gill. We ascend above the gill to near the top, where we turn into the hanging valley of Hole Rake on the flank of Wetherlam. This eventually brings us down into the Coppermines Valley, on down through the village and back to the House.

Highlight: A broad loop taking in the village, impressive mountain scenery, a gorge, waterfalls and ‘must-see’ local sights of Yew Tree Farm and Tarn Hows.

Option 3 – Wetherlam

Distance: 8½ miles (13.5km) 

Ascent: 2,700 feet (820m) 

In summary: Ascend via Tilberthwaite Gill and a mild but exiting scramble to the summit of Wetherlam, before descending via the disused workings of the Coppermines Valley. 

Highlight: The ascent to the top of Wetherlam is rugged in places; but with luck you’ll get to enjoy a view of many of the other peaks visited later in your holiday. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 3Loughrigg and Ambleside Fells

Option 1 – Loughrigg Circular

Distance: 7½ miles (12km) 

Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m) 

In summary: A delightful contouring circuit of Loughrigg Fell with extensive views of four lakes and the surrounding mountains. This walk finishes in the popular Lake District town of Ambleside. 

Highlight: The immense Rydal caves, with their wonderful views over Rydal Water and Nab Scar beyond.

Option 2 – Wansfell Pike and Troutbeck

Distance: 7½ miles (12km)

Ascent: 2,200 feet (680m)

In summary: A circular walk from Ambleside, this walk starts with a steep ascent up the side of Wansfell Pike. From here it is generally downhill to Troutbeck and then back around the corner of the fell to Ambleside via Skelghyll woods and Jenkins Crag. 

Highlight: The views on a clear day from the top of Wansfell Pike are stunning. Almost all of the ten miles of lake Windermere are visible to the south, and the ridges of Red Screes and Fairfield extend to the north, a real feeling of being amongst some of the big giants of the Lake District fells.

Option 3 – Red Screes and Dove Crag

Distance: 11½ miles (18km) 

Total ascent: 3,600 feet (1,100m) 

In summary: A challenging circuit taking in Red Screes and Dove Crag, returning to Ambleside over High Pike and Low Pike. The ascent of Red Screes entails a steep scramble. 

Highlight: With four ‘Wainwright’ summits to bag, this is a great high level route for a keen walker. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 4Free day

A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 5Hawkshead and Coniston Fells

Option 1 – Hawkshead

Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)

In summary: A figure of 8 walk visiting the iconic beauty spot Tarn Hows, then across fields and open fell to the pretty village of Hawkshead.

Highlight: Hawkshead with its myriad of narrow alleyways. The countryside that inspired Beatrix Potter.

Option 2 – Torver and Coniston Water

Distance: 10½ miles (16.5km)

Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)

In summary: Head for Coppermines Valley and walk the lower slopes of Coniston Old Man to reach the old trading route known as Walna Scar. Head on towards Torver then drop down to Coniston Water and walk the shoreline back to the house.

Highlight: Hear the water lapping on the shore as you gaze over the water to the mountains beyond.

Option 3 – Coniston Old Man and Dow Crag

Distance:  11 miles (17.5km)

Ascent: 3,250 feet (980m)

In summary: A high level route taking in two iconic mountains.

Highlight: From the top of Coniston Old Man, the views across Goats Water take in the magnificent eastern crags of Dow Crag, thought by many to be the second most impressive rock structure in the Lake District.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 6Langdales

Option 1 – The Langdale Valleys

Distance: 7½ miles (12km) 

Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)

In summary: Walk along the peaceful valley of Little Langdale with its waterfalls and iconic Slaters Bridge. We pass Blea Tarn, then descend into the larger neighbouring valley of Great Langdale. 

Highlight: Beautiful Blea Tarn, with its impressive views of some of the Lake District’s most famous peaks. 

Option 2 – Above Langdale

Distance: 8½ miles (14km) 

Total ascent: 2,000 feet (600m) 

In summary: Ascend to the great viewpoints of Side Pike and Lingmoor on the Langdale skyline. We descend to Elterwater Village to join the Cumbria Way along the base of this immense glacial valley. 

Highlight: ‘Threading the needle’ (squeezing through a narrow fissure) to reach the summit of Lingmoor, and its classic view of the Langdale Pikes.  

Option 3 – Crinkle Crags and Bow Fell

Distance: 9½ miles (15km)

Ascent: 3,200 feet (980m)

In summary: Heading into Oxendale we ascend towards Red Tarn to join the classic Crinkle Crags ridge, including the famous ‘Bad Step’ to our first summit. We then head via the col at Three Tarns to the imposing peak of Bow Fell. Out descent follows ‘The Band’ down to the valley for a well earned drink. 

Highlight: There is a great sense of achievement in scaling two of Wainwrights finest fells, on this challenging but rewarding day. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 7Grasmere Fells

Option 1 – Grasmere and Easedale

Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km) 

Ascent: 950 feet (300m) 

In summary: Starting from the village of Grasmere we’ll walk to Easedale Tarn, an impressive glacial lake.  

Highlight: There’s time to explore Grasmere, famous as the home of poet William Wordsworth. Don’t forget to seek out the poet’s grave in the village churchyard, or sample the famous (and very tasty) Grasmere Gingerbread. 

Option 2 – Helm Crag and Calf Crag

Distance: 8½ miles (13.5km) 

Ascent: 2,000 feet (620m)

In summary: An opportunity to climb Helm Crag, one of the most distinctive Lakeland Fells with the ‘Lion and the Lamb’ rock formations on the summit. We’ll follow the ridge to Gibson Knott and Calf Crag before descending via Far Easedale. 

Highlight: It’s a steep climb to the top of Helm Crag, but you’ll be rewarded with great views over Grasmere. 

Option 3 – Sergeant Man to Helm Crag

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Ascent: 2,900 feet (900m)

In summary: We leave the beautiful village of Grasmere and start the climb towards Easedale Tarn and then Sergeant Man. From Sergeant Man we follow paths across to Calf Crag, before a fantastic ridge takes us to Gibson Knott and Helm Crag. A steep descent then takes us to a well earned rest in Grasmere.

Highlight: Enjoy the superb views into Langdale from Sergeant Man, as well as exploring several Wainwrights along this great walk.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 8Departure Day

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)

Version 2 Itinerary

Day 1Arrival Day

You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (T, D)

Day 2Exploring Coniston Fells

Option 1 – Tarn Hows and Coniston

Distance: 7 miles (11km) 

Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)

In summary: Walk in the footsteps of Beatrix Potter through the woods from Monk Coniston to the stunningly beautiful lake of Tarn Hows, returning via Yew Tree Farm and Coniston Village; a great walk right on the doorstep. 

Highlight: Yew Tree Farm was donated to the National Trust by Beatrix Potter and used for the film Miss Potter. 

Option 2 – Hodge Close, Black Crag and Tarn Hows

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km)

Ascent: 1,950 feet (600m)

In summary: We start with elevated views along Conistonwater, then descend to Yew Tree Farm. Ascending again we cross Uskdale Gap on the craggy Holme Fell, then descend again to view Hodge Close Quarry. We reach the widely panoramic summit of Black Crag. Finally a gentle descent takes us past picturesque Tarn Hows on our return to the house.   

Highlight: A walk full of interest including Yew Tree Farm where the Beatrix Potter movie was filmed and the vast hole of Hodge Close Quarry. 

Option 3 – Coniston Old Man

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Ascent: 2,800 feet (860m)

In summary: Head up to Coniston Old Man via the Coppermines Valley and the old slate miners track. From the summit descent via Goats Water to view the magnificent eastern crags of Dow Crag.

Highlight: The view from the top of Coniston Old Man.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 3Grasmere and Fairfield

Option 1 – Grasmere and Rydal Water

Distance: 7 miles (11km) 

Ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)

In summary: Discover the delightful scenery surrounding Grasmere and Rydal on one of the Lake District’s best lower-level walks. We pass Wordsworth’s former home at Rydal Mount, before ending the walk in the popular town of Ambleside. 

Highlight: Don’t forget to seek out the poet’s grave in the village churchyard, or sample the famous (and very tasty) Grasmere Gingerbread.  

Option 2 – Rydal Water and Loughrigg Fell

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,720 feet (525m)

In summary: We start in Grasmere and head past Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, to join the old ‘Coffin Route’ to the village of Rydal with its Hall, grounds and waterfall. Crossing the outflow of Rydal Water we visit Rydal Cave, before ascending to the summit of Loughrigg Fell which commands great views. Gently descending paths bring is back to Rothay Park and Ambleside.  

Highlight: The impressive Rydal Cave and fantastic views of Windermere and beyond from Loughrigg Summit. 

Option 3 – Fairfield Horseshoe

Distance: 10 miles (16km) 

Ascent: 3,300 feet (1,000m) 

In summary: Walk the famous Fairfield Horseshoe, one of the finest mountain walks in the Lake District. Tick off eight separate Wainwright Fells on this day of fantastic high-level walking. 

Highlight: A drink will be richly deserved after this challenging but rewarding walk. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 4Free day

A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 5Coniston Fells

Option 1 – Coppermines Valley

Distance:  7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 380m (1,250ft)

In summary: Walk in the historic Coppermines valley and the lower slopes of Coniston Old Man.

Highlight: The history of mining in the area and feeling of being in among the fells.

Option 2 – Coppermines Valley and Levers Water

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km) 

Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)

In summary: We walk from the house into the historic Coppermines Valley. We make our way to the shores of Levers Water passing remains of a once vibrant mining industry. 

Highlight: The long and fascinating history of mining and admiring the surrounding mountains from Levers Water.

Option 3 – Swirl How and Wetherlam

Distance: 10½ miles (16.5km)

Ascent: 3,350 feet (1,020m)

In summary: A mountain top ridge walk with one mild but exhilarating scramble.

Highlight: The top of Swirl How, with the ridges and views heading off in all directions.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 6Langdale Fells

Option 1 – Langdale Valley

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 750 feet (240m)

In summary: Follow the Langdale Valley past Elterwater village, to the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel through increasingly grand scenery.  

Highlight: The two spectacular waterfalls of Colwith Force and Skelwith Force; two of the best cascades in the Lake District. 

Option 2 – Pike O’Blisco

Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km)

Ascent: 2,050 feet (640m)

In summary: Starting at the New Dungeon Ghyll, we head up on a good path beneath Side Pike, to the road col over to Little Langdale. Here we turn and continue our ascent to the rocky summit of Pike O’Blisco. We head down via Oxendale and make our way back past the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel.

Highlight: An impressive peak in its own right, surrounded by great mountain ridges.

Option 3 – Langdale Pikes

Distance: 10 miles (16km) 

Ascent: 3,300 feet (1020m) 

In summary: Explore the popular Langdale Pikes with visits to the summits of Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle, Pike O’Stickle and, potentially, Rossett Pike.  

Highlight: This walk along the Langdale skyline contains some of Lakeland’s most iconic peaks. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 7Troutbeck and Far Eastern Fells

Option 1 – Troutbeck and Ambleside

Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km) 

Ascent: 850 feet (280m) 

In summary: Enjoy fabulous views of Windermere from the lower slopes of Wansfell on a walk from 17th century Jesus Church at Troutbeck to Ambleside. 

Highlight: There’s plenty of time to explore the popular town of Ambleside or relax by the lake shore. 

Option 2 – Orrest Head and Wansfell Pike

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 1,900 feet (580m)

In summary: Enjoy spectacular views from Orrest Head before descending to the village of Troutbeck. We then ascend Wansfell Pike, another magnificent viewpoint, before our final descent into Ambleside. 

Highlight: Beatrix Potter used to live at Troutbeck Park Farm, where she bred herdwick sheep. The property, and the sheep are now the property of the National Trust.

Option 3 – Far Eastern Fells

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km) 

Ascent: 2,700 feet (820m)

In summary: A fantastic high-level walk from the Kirkstone Pass, taking in the summits of Stony Cove Pike and Thornthwaite Beacon before following the superb high level ridge South over the summits of Froswick, lll Bell and Yoke. 

Highlight: The spectacular ridgeline traverse of Troutbeck’s three high fells, Froswick, Ill Bell and Yoke is a walk to savour.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 8Departure Day

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)

Version 3 Itinerary

Day 1Arrival Day

You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (T, D)

Day 2Tarn Hows and Tilberthwaite

Option 1 – Tarn Hows

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m) 

In summary: Walk in the footsteps of Beatrix Potter through the woods from Monk Coniston to the stunningly beautiful lake of Tarn Hows, returning via Yew Tree Farm; a great walk right on the doorstep.

Highlight: Yew Tree Farm was donated to the National Trust by Beatrix Potter and used for the film Miss Potter.

Option 2 – Tom Heights

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)

In summary: Walk across fields to Yew Tree Farm and the Yewdale Valley. After ascending Tom Heights we return via Tarn Hows.

Highlight: Tom Heights is dwarfed by the surrounding peaks, but it enjoys great views over the local countryside.

Option 3 – Tarn Hows and Hole Rake

Distance: 8 miles (13km) 

Ascent: 1,775 feet (540m) 

In summary: We head out of the House, up through Hill Fell Plantation, to reach the picturesque Tarn Hows. From above the tarn, we then take a quiet path down to view the iconic Yew Tree Farm. Onto a bridleway and a short section of road, before we cut up across the hillside, over a couple of short rocky sections, on to the deep chasm of Tilberthwaite Gill. We ascend above the gill to near the top, where we turn into the hanging valley of Hole Rake on the flank of Wetherlam. This eventually brings us down into the Coppermines Valley, on down through the village and back to the House.

Highlight: A broad loop taking in the village, impressive mountain scenery, a gorge, waterfalls and ‘must-see’ local sights of Yew Tree Farm and Tarn Hows.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 3Ambleside Fells

Option 1 – Troutbeck to Ambleside

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)

Ascent: 900 feet (280m) 

In summary: Enjoy fabulous views of Windermere from the lower slopes of Wansfell on a walk from 17th century Jesus Church at Troutbeck to Ambleside.

Highlight: There’s plenty of time to explore the popular town of Ambleside or relax by the lakeshore.

Option 2 – Elterwater and Loughrigg

Distance: 8 miles (13.5km)

Ascent: 1,400 feet (420m)

In summary: We start today’s walk by following the Cumbria Way to the village of Elterwater. Ascending to Loughrigg fell we are treated to jaw dropping views over the Langdales and across Rydal Water, before beginning our descent to Ambleside.

Highlight: Spectacular views from the tracks around Loughrigg Fell.

Option 3 – Orrest Head and Wansfell Pike

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 1,900 feet (580m)

In summary: Enjoy spectacular views from Orrest Head before descending to the village of Troutbeck. We then ascend Wansfell Pike, another magnificent viewpoint, before our final descent into Ambleside. 

Highlight: Beatrix Potter used to live at Troutbeck Park Farm, where she bred herdwick sheep. The property, and the sheep are now the property of the National Trust.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 4Free day

A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit. 

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 5Hawkshead

Option 1 – Hawkshead

Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)

In summary: A figure of 8 walk visiting the iconic beauty spot Tarn Hows, then across fields and open fell to the pretty village of Hawkshead.

Highlight: Hawkshead with its myriad of narrow alleyways. The countryside that inspired Beatrix Potter.

Option 2 – Coniston to Hawkshead via Grizedale

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 1,500 feet (460m)

In summary: Walk to Hawkshead village via Grizedale Forest and return over fields and open fell to Tarn Hows.

Highlight: Hawkshead with its myriad of narrow alleyways and connections with Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.

Option 3 – Hawkshead and Latterbarrow

Distance: 12 miles (19.5km)

Ascent: 2,200 feet (660m)

In summary: Following a similar route to option 2 through Grisedale Forest we arrive in the pretty village of Hawkshead. Our route then heads out to the small but impressive peak of Latterbarrow before returning to Coniston.

Highlight: Latterbarrow maybe a small peak but it packs a punch in terms of views on offer from the summit.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 6The Langdale Valley

Option 1 – Langdale Valley

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 750 feet (260m)

In summary: Follow the Langdale Valley past Elterwater village, to the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel through increasingly grand scenery. 

Highlight: The two spectacular waterfalls of Colwith Force and Skelwith Force; two of the best cascades in the Lake District.

Option 2 – Langdale Valley

Distance: 7½ miles (12km)

Ascent: 1,350 feet (420m)

In summary: Walk along the peaceful valley of Little Langdale with its waterfalls and iconic Slaters Bridge. We pass Blea Tarn, then descend into the larger neighbouring valley of Great Langdale. 

Highlight: Beautiful Blea Tarn, with its impressive views of some of the Lake District’s most famous peaks. 

Option 3 – Above Langdale

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 2,200 feet (680m)

In summary: Ascend to the great viewpoints of Side Pike and Lingmoor on the Langdale skyline. We descend to Elterwater Village to join the Cumbria Way along the base of this immense glacial valley.

Highlight: ‘Threading the needle’ (squeezing through a narrow fissure) to reach the summit of Lingmoor, and its classic view of the Langdale Pikes.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 7Coppermines and Coniston Fells

Option 1 – Coppermines Valley

Distance:  7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 380m (1,250ft)

In summary: Walk in the historic Coppermines valley and the lower slopes of Coniston Old Man.

Highlight: The history of mining in the area and feeling of being in among the fells.

Option 2 – Coppermines Valley and Levers Water

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km) 

Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)

In summary: We walk from the house into the historic Coppermines Valley. We make our way to the shores of Levers Water passing remains of a once vibrant mining industry. 

Highlight: The long and fascinating history of mining and admiring the surrounding mountains from Levers Water.

Option 3 – Coniston Old Man

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Ascent: 2,800 feet (860m)

In summary: Head up to Coniston Old Man via the Coppermines Valley and the old slate miners track. From the summit descent via Goats Water to view the magnificent eastern crags of Dow Crag.

Highlight: The view from the top of Coniston Old Man.

Accommodation: Monk Coniston (B, L, D)

Day 8Departure Day

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)

Dates and Prices
Version 1
Departure Dates		 Per person (single or twin) Single in a double room
2024: August 2 $2,830 $3,110
2024: October 11 $2,480 $2,760
2025: May 9 $2,930 $3,210
2025: June 27 $2,930 $3,210
2025: July 18 $2,930 $3,210
2025: October 10 $2,630 $2,910
Version 2
Departure Dates		 Per person (single or twin) Single in a double room
2025: April 18 $2,630 $2,910
2025: June 6 $2,930 $3,210
2025: July 11 $2,930 $3,210
2025: August 15 $2,930 $3,210
2025: September 26 $2,930 $3,210
2025: October 3 $2,630 $2,910
Version 3
Departure Dates		 Per person (single or twin) Single in a double room
2024: November 8 $2,250 $2,530
2025: February 21 $2,350 $2,630
2025: October 31 $2,350 $2,630
2025: November 14 $2,350 $2,630

Pricing

Pricing is per person (pp) based on single/twin/double occupancy.

Supplement applied for single in a double room.

Rates are in $ CAD. Rates include room upgrade (better) and membership fees. 


Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.

Ask us for the best available pricing for your dates & choice of airline. We can assist in your travel to/from the Country House.

This tour is also available in 2, 3, 4 or 5 night duration. 

This holiday includes active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet.

While every effort will be made to adhere to the described itinerary, we may occasionally vary the sequence shown here or substitute an alternative route to suit local conditions or for other operational reasons, potentially at short notice. Sometimes things happen beyond our control – the weather, traffic jams or changes at the places we visit. If we need to adjust your holiday programme, for whatever reason, your leader will help smooth the way.

Travel Details:
Address is: Monk Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria LA21 8AQ

By Rail:
The nearest train station is at Windermere.

By Taxi:
The 13-mile journey from Windermere railway station takes approximately 30 minutes. You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended taxi company, Ace Taxi. As a guide price, it cost £25 per 4-seat taxi in 2019. 8-seat taxis are also available at a higher rate. Please pre-book your taxi at least 7 days in advance by contacting:

Ace Taxi*
Tel: +44 (0) 1539 445445
Email: acetaxiwindermere@gmail.com
The return taxi journey can be arranged on your behalf by the Monk Coniston Manager.
*Ace Taxi is not owned or managed by us.

By Bus:
From Windermere station you can catch the 505 bus direct to Monk Coniston – the bus stop is right outside our Country House. Journey time is around 50 minutes.

By Car:
From Ambleside take the A593 signposted to Coniston. Turn sharp left over a narrow bridge, then after half a mile turn left onto the B5286, signposted to Hawkshead. About 3 miles along this road, and just before Hawkshead, turn right onto the B5285, signposted to Coniston. Follow this road over Hawkshead Hill. The road descends then goes around a 180° bend to the left. The entrance to Monk Coniston is on the left about 100yds after the bend. There is car parking available within the grounds.

Hotel Descriptions
4

Monk Coniston

Wrapped in manicured gardens with stunning views over Coniston Water, Monk Coniston combines country house grandeur and romantic, gothic-style charm with contemporary touches to great effect among the rugged landscapes of the Lake District. Rocky mountains and grassy fells loom all around this handsome home, once owned by Beatrix Potter, and more latterly turned hikers’ hotel and owned by the National Trust. Fell-flecked scenery unfurls from the windows of the bedrooms in the main house, adjoining cottage and counting house. While the setting remains traditional and the grand entrance recalls a traditional era, the interiors have been swept into the present with bold patterns and comfy fabrics. Beyond the house, trails from the doorstep set off to explore the Lake District. Climb famous summits including Bow Fell, the Langdale Pikes and the Old Man of Coniston. Bag a series of Wainwright summits. Alternatively, slip into the beautiful valleys and stroll picturesque lakeside paths in search of secret corners such as Cathedral Cove in Little Langdale.

Address: Monk Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria LA21 8AQ

Room Amenities: Tea & coffee-making facilities, TV, Hairdryer, Toiletries, Wi-Fi

Stay in the smartly presented rooms in the main house. With 32 rooms, Monk Coniston has plenty of space and there’s a range of ‘Classic’, ‘Premium’ and ‘Superior’ Rooms to choose from. Rooms with a view are well worth the extra spend as you’ll be overlooking the gardens or the lake.  Our favourite is Room 9 on the first floor, which contains some of the original features from when it was first built in 1885, a striking sailboat-patterned wallpaper and opens on to beautiful views of the gardens and fields that slope down to the shore of Coniston Water.

Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.

Hotel Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, boot room and drying room, extensive garden, lounge, bar, Lakeland barn for activities, library and board games to borrow

After a day exploring the Lake District, return to the house. Stroll through the extensive grounds with their putting green and croquet lawn and uncover the hidden walled garden on the hill behind the house. Take a turn around the National Trust nature trail and look out for the fabulous, rare mature trees. Stumble on the small secret folly stood quietly among the bluebells when they’re out and the lush green grass when they’re not. Catch up with fellow guests in the bright and spacious lounge or grab a drink from the airy bar and wander down the garden to the bench overlooking Coniston Water for the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner – you might even spot the restored steam yacht Gondola cruising the five-mile length of the lake. After hours, duck into the converted Lakeland barn with its exposed beams and rustic chandelier for evening activities and skittles.

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