I still remember the overwhelming sense of accomplishment I felt upon completing my hike of the Old Man of Coniston. My legs were trembling, my lungs burning, and yet I couldn’t stop smiling. This iconic Lake District fell isn’t the tallest in England, but it certainly leaves a lasting impression on everyone who conquers it.
Let me take you through everything you need to know about hiking the Old Man of Coniston. Standing at 803 meters (2,634 feet) tall, this magnificent mountain ranks as the 14th highest peak in the Lake District. While many guidebooks classify the old man walk as “moderate,” I can assure you it presents a genuine challenge that shouldn’t be underestimated.
As someone who finished the whole 15km hike, I want to share my tips. First, plan to spend at least 5-6 hours on the trail. However, your hiking speed will change how long it takes. Also, the route you pick will affect your total time. Still, proper gear makes the walk more fun. Next, start early to avoid afternoon crowds on the path.
Then, bring plenty of water for the climb. Meanwhile, check weather reports before you leave home. Besides, tell someone where you’re going for safety. Finally, take breaks to enjoy the amazing views along the way.Subsequently, you’ll discover why this beloved fell attracts thousands of hikers each year.
Essential Information About the Old Man of Coniston
Before you lace up your hiking boots, there are some crucial details you should know. The Old Man of Coniston is located near the charming village of Coniston in the southern Lake District. How high is Coniston Old Man? It stands at an impressive 803 meters (2,634 feet) above sea level. This old man coniston height makes it a significantly challenging climb, especially for inexperienced hikers.
When planning your visit, consider starting early to avoid crowds and ensure you have plenty of daylight hours. The mountain can experience rapid weather changes, as a result, I strongly recommend checking the forecast before setting out and packing appropriate gear regardless of predictions.
The traditional starting point for the old man of coniston walk is the village of Coniston itself. However, I learned a valuable lesson about parking options. Specifically, if you want to reduce your hiking distance, drive to the Walna Scar car park instead of parking in the village. This saves approximately 3km of additional walking and preserves your energy for the actual mountain.
Routes to the Summit
The most popular route begins from the Walna Scar car park. Therefore, this is where I’ll focus my guidance. From here, you can choose between several paths of varying difficulty. The direct route up and down covers approximately 6km and typically takes 2.5-3 hours depending on your pace and the number of breaks you take.
For more adventurous hikers seeking a fuller experience, I recommend the circular route that takes in neighboring peaks. This is the path I chose, covering around 15km and taking about 5-6 hours to complete. Consequently, you’ll need to pack additional supplies and be prepared for a full day on the mountain.
The terrain varies considerably throughout the old man of coniston walk. You’ll encounter well-defined paths, loose scree, rocky sections requiring scrambling, and gentle grassy slopes. In particular, the upper sections can be challenging in wet conditions, so appropriate footwear is essential.
My Personal Experience Hiking the Old Man of Coniston
I began my adventure from Coniston village, which added an extra 3km to my journey. Looking back, I would definitely recommend driving to the Walna Scar car park instead. Nevertheless, the walk through the village provided a gentle warm-up before the real climbing began.
The initial section follows a steep tarmac road (Walna Scar Road) that gradually transitions into a rocky path. As you gain elevation, the views start to unfold, revealing glimpses of Coniston Water and the surrounding landscape. Also you’ll also see old mining equipment and sites as you walk along the path.
When you get halfway up the climb, you’ll find Low Water, a small mountain lake where you can rest for a bit. I paused here to catch my breath and enjoy the tranquility before tackling the steeper section ahead. This serene location provides excellent photo opportunities, with the summit of the Old Man towering above.
Push to the Summit of the Old Man of Coniston
The final stretch to the summit is undoubtedly the most challenging part of the entire walk. The path becomes significantly steeper, and in some places, you’ll need to use your hands for balance as you scramble over rocky sections. The old man of coniston walk time for this final ascent varies, but it took me approximately 45 minutes from Low Water.
Reaching the summit was an exhilarating moment. The panoramic views stretched for miles in every direction – Coniston Water to the east, Windermere in the distance, and on a clear day, you can even spot Morecambe Bay and the Isle of Man. Specifically, the sense of achievement combined with these breathtaking vistas made every step of the climb worthwhile.
The summit area features a well-built cairn and provides ample space to rest and enjoy your packed lunch. However, be prepared for it to be busy during peak seasons and weekends. The temperature at the top can be significantly cooler than in the valley, so an extra layer is advisable even on warm days.
Extending Your Hike Beyond the Old Man
If you’re feeling energetic after reaching the summit, you might consider extending your hike to include some neighboring peaks. This is exactly what I did, creating a circular route that offered constantly changing perspectives of the stunning Lake District landscape.
From the Old Man of Coniston summit, I followed the ridge northward to Swirl How, another impressive peak standing at 802 meters. The path along this ridge is relatively straightforward and offers spectacular views down to Levers Water on your right. Subsequently, this extension adds approximately 3km to your journey but is well worth the effort.
For those seeking an even more comprehensive experience, continuing from Swirl How to Grey Friar and then circling back via Brown Pike creates a challenging but rewarding circuit. The old man of coniston walk becomes a full day adventure when you include these additional summits, so be sure to start early and carry sufficient supplies.
Descending from the Old Man of Coniston
The descent from the Old Man of Coniston requires careful attention, particularly in wet conditions. I chose to return via the Goat’s Water path, which offers a gentler gradient than the ascent route. As a result, this reduced the strain on my knees and provided fresh views to enjoy.
Goat’s Water itself is another beautiful tarn nestled beneath the imposing crags of Dow Crag. The path skirts around the eastern shore before descending more steeply toward the Walna Scar Road. In particular, this section can be muddy after rainfall, so trekking poles prove invaluable for maintaining stability.
The final stretch back to the car park follows the wide Walna Scar track, allowing you to relax and reflect on your achievement as you complete the circuit. Consequently, this gradual descent gives your legs a chance to recover before the drive home.
Practical Tips for Your Old Man of Coniston Adventure
Based on my experience, here are some essential tips to ensure your hike is safe and enjoyable:
When to Visit the Old Man of Coniston
The best time to tackle the old man of coniston walk is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, you’ll generally experience better weather conditions and longer daylight hours. Nevertheless, always check the forecast before setting out, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
What to Pack
Your backpack should include waterproof clothing, extra layers, plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person), energy-rich snacks, a first aid kit, map and compass (or GPS device), and a fully charged mobile phone. Additionally, I recommend carrying a headlamp or torch even for daytime hikes, just in case you get delayed.
Safety Considerations
Never underestimate how high is old man of coniston and the challenges it presents. This fell has claimed lives in poor weather conditions, therefore proper preparation is essential. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time, and consider using a mountain rescue location app that can pinpoint your position in an emergency.
If visibility deteriorates while you’re on the mountain, having navigation skills becomes crucial. The paths can become difficult to follow in fog or heavy rain, consequently increasing the risk of straying onto dangerous ground. Don’t hesitate to turn back if conditions worsen significantly.
Alternative Walks in the Area
If the full Old Man of Coniston route seems too challenging, or if weather conditions aren’t favorable, several excellent alternatives exist in the same area. Tarn Hows offers a beautiful 3km circular walk on well-maintained paths with stunning views, making it perfect for families or those seeking a gentler experience.
For something in between, consider the walk to Coniston Coppermines Valley, which provides fascinating insights into the area’s industrial heritage without the strenuous climb to the summit. Additionally, the paths around Coniston Water offer lovely low-level walks with beautiful lake views.
Advanced hikers looking for even greater challenges might consider the Old Man as part of the Coniston Round, which incorporates Wetherlam, Swirl How, and Grey Friar in a challenging circuit. The old man of coniston walk time for this extended route is typically 7-8 hours, requiring excellent fitness and navigation skills.
Final Thoughts on Conquering the Old Man of Coniston
My day on the Old Man of Coniston remains one of my most treasured Lake District memories. Despite the physical challenges and occasional scrambling sections, the sense of achievement and the spectacular views made every step worthwhile. This isn’t just a walk; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve descended.
Whether you choose the direct route to the summit or opt for the extended circuit, the old man of coniston walk offers a perfect taste of what makes the Lake District so special. The varied terrain, historical features, and breathtaking vistas combine to create a truly memorable hiking experience.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure on this iconic fell. Remember to respect the mountain, prepare thoroughly, and take your time to appreciate the journey as much as the destination. The Old Man of Coniston has stood for millennia and will be waiting whenever you’re ready for the challenge.
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