Discover the best of Coniston and Langdale with this collection of 15 carefully selected short walks, showcasing the area’s finest scenery, including Coniston Old Man, Tarn Hows, Elterwater, Blea Tarn, Stickle Tarn and the Coppermines Valley. 

Each route is designed to be completed in under three hours (with one challenge route for those seeking a bit more adventure), making this guidebook the perfect companion for families, newcomers, and anyone eager to explore the Lake District’s stunning lakes, rugged fells, and charming villages.

• Each of the 15 Coniston and Langdale walks features clear, easy-to-follow Ordnance Survey maps alongside step-by-step route descriptions, ensuring straightforward navigation for walkers of all abilities.
• Practical information is provided for every walk, including details on parking, local facilities, and route highlights, so every outing is enjoyable, accessible, and well-planned.
• Discover the region’s most memorable sights, from the dramatic summit of the Old Man of Coniston to the tranquil waters of Tarn Hows, the picturesque valleys of Elterwater and Great Langdale, and the historic Coppermines.
• Routes start from welcoming villages such as Coniston, Hawkshead and Elterwater, with suggestions for public transport via bus or ferry for added convenience.
• Experience the best of Lake District hospitality, with advice on local accommodation options ranging from campsites and youth hostels to cosy B&Bs and hotels, ideal for extending your stay after a day’s walk.

Part of Cicerone’s trusted Short Walks series, this guide to Coniston and Langdale brings together everything you need for a memorable day out amid the ever-changing beauty of the Lake District. Whether you’re a local resident, a day visitor, or planning a scenic getaway, this guide is your key to discovering the best of Coniston and Langdale at an easy, enjoyable pace.

15 Short Walks in the Lake District – Coniston and Langdale: Quick Facts

Location: Coniston and Great Langdale, Lake District, Cumbria, UK (including Coniston, Hawkshead, Elterwater and surrounding areas)
Total walks: 15 selected short walks
Typical duration: Under ~3 hours each, plus one longer challenge walk
Distance per walk: ~4.5–10.5 km (2.5–6.5 miles)
Walk type: Easy day walks on circular or linear routes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate; mostly well-marked paths, with one more challenging ascent (Old Man of Coniston)
Navigation: Clear Ordnance Survey maps and step-by-step route descriptions included
Highlights: Coniston Old Man, Tarn Hows, Elterwater, Blea Tarn, Stickle Tarn, Coppermines Valley, Yewdale Fells, and the striking seasonal colours of the Lake District
Best season: Walkable all year round (weather and conditions permitting; take extra care on steep or icy ground in winter)

Author Highlight

"Walking in the Lake District is rewarding all year round as the colours of the landscape change dramatically, from Spring when the first flowers emerge and black Herdwick lambs are born, to Autumn when the woodlands and bracken turn russet and gold. Winter, too, brings breathtaking beauty, but care is needed on icy ground. If it rains heavily, find a walk that includes waterfalls! This guidebook has walks for all seasons and all abilities." 

- Paddy Dillon, author of 15 Short Walks Lake District - Coniston and Langdale

Map key
Overview map
Using this guide
Route summary table
Introduction
Walking in the Lake District
Where to stay
Travel
 
The walks
1. Coniston circuit
2. Coppermines Valley
3. Coniston and Torver
4. Sunny Bank to Coniston
5. Hawkshead to Coniston
6. Coniston and Tarn Hows
7. Yewdale Fells
8. Old Man of Coniston
9. Tilberthwaite
10. Elterwater and Little Langdale
11. Elterwater and Great Langdale
12. Great Langdale
13. Mickleden and Oxendale
14. Stickle Tarn
15. Blea Tarn
 
Useful information

Seasons

Best walking conditions are in spring, summer and autumn. In winter, short days, bad weather or snow and ice cover can make some walks difficult. Climbing the Old Man should be avoided in winter.

Centres

Coniston, Hawkshead, Elterwater, Chapel Stile, New and Old Dungeon Ghyll

Difficulty

Mostly easy walking requiring no special equipment. However, there are some short, steep ascents and descents, which might be rocky or stony, where more care is needed. The ascent of the Old Man is steep, stony and prolonged and should only be attempted in good weather.

Must See

Coniston Water, Coniston Coppermines, other mines and slate quarries, Old Man of Coniston, Tarn Hows, Hawkshead, Elterwater, Little Langdale, Great Langdale, Stickle Tarn, Blea Tarn

April 2025

Walk 4

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