Coniston Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Coniston Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Coniston packs a lot into a small area. The village sits between the lake and mountains, giving you water and hill activities in one spot. Coniston Water offers boat trips on the Steam Yacht Gondola (LA21 8AJ, open March-October, 10am-4pm), a Victorian steam-powered yacht restored by the National Trust (TripAdvisor 4.5/5).

Brantwood House (LA21 8AD), former home of John Ruskin, combines art, gardens and lake views. It's open daily 10:30am-5pm and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The gardens alone are worth the visit - seven different ones each with unique themes.

The Ruskin Museum (LA21 8DU) tells the story of Coniston through the ages, including displays on Donald Campbell's Bluebird and Arthur Ransome's Swallows and Amazons. It's open 10am-5:30pm daily and rates 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.

For walkers, the Old Man of Coniston provides routes for all abilities. The main path starts from the village and takes about 2.5 hours to reach the summit. On clear days, you can see as far as Blackpool Tower! After all that exploring, your hot tub will be waiting back at your cottage.

Pet Friendly

Coniston is brilliant for dogs. Most paths around the lake welcome pets and the Old Man of Coniston is dog-friendly too. I always recommend bringing a towel specifically for muddy paws - Lakeland weather means wet walks are common!

The Black Bull Inn (LA21 8DU) allows dogs in the bar area and serves good pub food. They even offer water bowls. The Bluebird Café (LA21 8AJ) has outdoor seating where dogs can join you while you enjoy lake views.

Grizedale Forest (LA22 0QJ) has miles of trails perfect for dog walking. The waymarked routes mean you won't get lost and the sculpture trail adds interest. Dogs must be kept on leads in some areas due to wildlife.

Many Coniston cottages with hot tubs accept pets, but always check if there are restrictions about dogs using outdoor areas where the tub is located. Some properties provide dog beds, bowls and even treats on arrival.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Coniston

The Coniston Boating Centre (LA21 8AJ) offers more than just boat hire. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, sailing dinghies or motor boats without needing a license. Prices start from £15 per hour. We recommend booking ahead in summer as it gets busy. One visitor wrote: "Hired a motor boat for an hour. Staff were helpful explaining how to use it and the lake was stunning. Worth every penny."

Tarn Hows (LA21 8AB) is a man-made beauty spot created by joining three smaller tarns. The circular walk takes about an hour and is mostly flat, making it ideal for families. National Trust owned, it features in countless Lake District photographs. The car park (paid) can fill quickly in peak season, so arrive early. A recent visitor commented: "One of the prettiest spots in the Lakes and accessible for almost everyone."

The Coppermines Valley (LA21 8HJ) shows Coniston's industrial past. The walk from the village takes you past old mine workings, with information boards explaining the copper mining history that dates back to Elizabethan times. The Youth Hostel here was once the mine manager's house. A TripAdvisor review notes: "Fascinating industrial archaeology in a stunning setting. The contrast between the natural beauty and man's industry is striking."

Is Coniston suitable for young children?

Yes! The lake has shallow areas perfect for paddling and the Tarn Hows walk is pushchair-friendly. The Ruskin Museum has interactive displays and many cottages provide games and DVDs for rainy days.

Can I get around Coniston without a car?

It's possible but limiting. Buses connect Coniston to Ambleside and Ulverston, but services are infrequent. The Coniston Launch water taxi is a fun way to explore the lake, stopping at multiple jetties.

Where's the best place to eat in Coniston?

The Black Bull Inn brews its own Bluebird Bitter and serves excellent food. For casual eating, the Bluebird Café offers great lakeside views and homemade cakes.

When's the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn offer good weather with fewer crowds. Summer is busiest but has longer days for activities. Winter is magical with snow-capped mountains reflected in the lake - perfect hot tub weather!

Can I swim in Coniston Water?

Yes, wild swimming is popular. Monk Coniston at the north end has easy access. Water temperature rarely exceeds 17°C even in summer, so wetsuits are advisable.

Are there any supermarkets in Coniston?

Coniston has a small Co-op for essentials. For bigger shops, Booths supermarket in Windermere (15 miles away) offers more choice and local produce.

Helpful links:

1. Lake District Walking Routes
2. Coniston Launch Boat Services
3. National Trust Coniston Properties
4. Coppermines Valley Walking Guide