23rd August – Coniston Old Man, via Goats Hawse

Date: 23rd August

Leader: Ben

Meet time: 09:45

Start time: 10:00

Estimated finish time: 16:00

Distance: 14km

Ascent: 910m

Ramblers walk grading (click here to find out what this means): Strenuous

Start point: Coniston Tourist Information Centre Nearest postal code: LA21 8FA

What3Words:  ///cheetahs.basic.tiles

Please Register using the form at the bottom of the event page if you intend to join the walk.

Car parking: Paid parking options available in the village center. Nearest postal code: LA21 8FA
(Car sharing may be possible – please contact the walk leader to arrange)

It is the responsibility of each walker to make sure they understand where to park. If you are not sure where the car parking/meeting point is, you must contact the walk leader at the latest the day before the walk. You should not rely on mobile phones or postcodes. There is often no mobile reception near walk meeting points and postcodes are for the nearest place nearby but should only serve as a guideline. Please allow plenty of time to find a parking space so that walks can start promptly.

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Summary

With a fascinating history of mining and surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in the Lake District, Coniston truly is a walker’s paradise. Whilst the route is lengthy the tracks are generally good and should mean we walk without any struggles.

Proudly overlooking this beautiful area is the unmissable Old Man of Coniston. The highest of the Coniston fells, its peak sits at an impressive 803m, attracting hikers from across the UK and beyond. From its summit, you’ll enjoy far-reaching views over the southern Lake District fells, the Irish Sea, and on clear days, even the Isle of Man.

Description

From Tourist information centre in Coniston, we’ll need to walk up to Walna Scar Car Park along the lane the road is easy to follow and after approx. 1.5km, at a clear junction, turn right on a narrower, rocky path signposted for Goat’s Water.

Continue gently uphill until Goat’s Water comes into view beneath the dramatic cliffs of Dow Crag, popular with rock climbers. 

Skirt the tarn on the right-hand side, then begin a steep zig-zag, uphill climb to Goat’s Hawse – the mountain pass between Dow Crag and the Old Man. At Goat’s Hawse, we can pause and enjoy the dramatic view down to Goat’s Water, before turning right (east) to take the final stony ascent to the summit of Coniston Old Man. 

The views open up and we’ll be treated to incredible vistas of Coniston Water and down to Coppermines Valley. We take the zig-zag path descent down to Low Water tarn. This is a perfect spot for a mid-hike picnic or to dip your toes into on a hot day. Continuing the descent, at the large disused quarry, climb over/under the old steel cables; pass old mine buildings and slate spoil heaps, staying on the main path proceeding to the Coppermines Conservation Area.

Keeping Church beck on the left we continue down the miners track and back into the village for an optional pub stop.

Please check the weather and bring appropriate clothing (waterproofs and spare warm clothing), footwear and enough food and water. The leader reserves the right to turn away any walker not suitably equipped. The leader may cancel the walk or modify the route dependent on conditions.

New members

Check your walk suitability, we suggest starting with an Easy to Moderate walk. Unless the event is cancelled just turn up at the meeting point on time, and introduce yourself to the walk leader! Subscribe to our Facebook page and email list, or join our WhatsApp group to stay up-to-date!

Unsure what to pack? Check out our guide here: UK Hillwalking: Seasonal Equipment & Clothing Guide – SuMMit Good

Please note the walk leader may not be in contact prior to an event; however, they may ask for more information about your walking experience. This is to ensure you have the fitness required to complete the walk that is planned safely.