Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
These holidays offer a perfect mix of short, guided walks (4-5 miles), combined with time spent sightseeing. Visit a selection of standout highlights in the Southern Lake District with hassle-free coach travel and the help of an experienced leader.
Highlights:
Monk Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria LA21 8AQ (Google Map)
4:00pm – You’re welcome to check into the country house hotel from 4pm onwards.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way onward.
Unpack Once!
Explore places of interest, beauty, heritage and wonder. Enjoy active guided sightseeing on relaxed-pace trips to revel in the history, landscapes, architecture and culture of your chosen destination.
Walking tours with sightseeing include:
The Walking tour with Sightseeing program is a combination of Guided Walking Tours and Discovery Tours to give you the best of both touring styles.
Enjoy easier walks (6 – 8 km) that let sightseeing take center stage. We offer carefully-curated itineraries that balance sights, hikes, and activities. Let our experienced Leader introduce you to the heart of a region, highlighting the history, heritage, landmarks, wildlife, and more.
You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival. (D, T)
Accommodation: Monk Coniston
Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)
Ascent: 600 feet (200m)
In summary: We’ll walk along Loughrigg Terrace to Rydal Cave and descend to cross the River Rothay to Rydal Hall. We visit the 17th century viewing station which frames the waterfall on Rydal Beck; passing Rydal Mount we follow the old ‘Coffin Route’ to Grasmere. There’s time to take in the surrounds and learn more about William Wordsworth, with options including a visit to the National Trust’s Allen Bank property or Dove Cottage. For some, a trip to the famous Gingerbread Shop might be more appealing!
Highlight: The stunning waterfall in the grounds of Rydal Hall. The artists’ grotto at the bottom of the falls has a window which frames the falls perfectly. (B, L, D)
Accommodation: Monk Coniston
Distance: 4 miles
Ascent: 550 feet (150m)
In summary: We walk on good tracks via Low Yewdale to the Coppermines Valley, strewn with relics of the area’s industrial past. We explore Coniston village before making our way to the lake shore, to cruise Coniston Water on the restored steam yacht Gondola, with an option to visit Brantwood the home of John Ruskin before a short and pleasant walk through a field into the gardens of Monk Coniston.
Highlight: A cruise on Coniston Water, aboard the National Trust’s historic Steam Yacht Gondola. (B, L, D)
Accommodation: Monk Coniston
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. (B, L, D)
Accommodation: Monk Coniston
Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Ascent: 950 feet (300m)
In summary: From Skelwith Bridge our walk takes us by two beautiful waterfalls Skelwith Force and Colwith Force into the Little Langdale Valley. We then visit Cathedral Cave and the iconic Slater Bridge before heading into Little Langdale village and then on to Elterwater.
Highlight: Cathedral Cave – one of the hidden gems of the Lake District. (B, L, D)
Accommodation: Monk Coniston
Distance: 4 miles (6.5km)
Ascent: 500 feet (150m)
In summary: Visit Hill Top, the home of Beatrix Potter, and Moss Eccles Tarn – on which Potter’s The Tale of Jeremy Fisher is based. On a clear day there are excellent views over to the Langdale Pikes. We’ll walk into the picturesque village of Hawkshead and have time to explore. Perhaps visit Wordsworth’s old school, wander the cobbled streets or browse the fantastic selection of shops.
Highlight: A visit to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s beloved Lakeland farmhouse. (B, L, D)
Accommodation: Monk Coniston
Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Ascent: 935 feet (285m)
In summary: We’ll explore the charming countryside around Monk Coniston, with a walk up to the famous beauty spot of Tarn Hows. After completing a circuit of the Tarn and taking in the stunning scenery, we’ll descend beside Tom Gill and its surging waterfalls, to arrive at Yew Tree Farm. Here, we’ll enjoy the unique and unforgettable Herwick Experience. On this ’one-of-kind’ farm tour, we’ll learn all about the Herdwick breed, their cultural significance and fell farming in the Lake District. Afterwards, we’ll have the opportunity to meet and get up close to the very friendly ‘Ambassador’ sheep flock.
Highlight: Meeting Yew Tree Farms ‘Ambassador’ Herdwick sheep flock. (B, L, D)
Accommodation: Monk Coniston
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)
| Departure Dates | Per person (single or twin) | Single in a double room |
|---|---|---|
| 2025: June 6 | $2,930 | $3,210 |
| 2025: August 15 | $2,930 | $3,210 |
Pricing
Pricing is per person (pp) based on single/twin/double occupancy.
Supplement applied for single in a double room.
Rates include room upgrade (premium) and membership fees.
Rates are in $ CAD.
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.
During your Walking with Sightseeing Tour you’ll have the opportunity to visit many fascinating places. The following is our provisional programme, and your leader may adjust it at their discretion, taking into account factors such as weather, local opening times, or other events. This holiday includes active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet.
Most admissions to places of interest are not included. Please allow up to £15 per day for admissions to all the places of interest we will be visiting. The full adult price is given but there are usually good reductions for parties and seniors. If you are a member of the National Trust, English Heritage or similar, remember to bring your card for free admission to their properties. Please bring cash as card machines are not always available at all venues.
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.
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 ‘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.
