Coniston

Coniston water is probably best known as the place where Donald Campbell broke the World water speed record in Bluebird. Campbell died making an attempt to push the record further when at a speed of around 300 miles per hour the nose of Bluebird suddenly lifted, the craft somersaulted and sank. His body has never been recovered. Today you can enjoy gliding across the water at a more sedate pace on the steam yacht Gondola. The yacht was first launched in 1859 and has been beautifully restored.

For many years Coniston was the home of Victorian artist John Ruskin. You can visit his home, Brantwood, which is on the East side of Coniston Water. The house was built in 1797, Ruskin lived there from 1872 to 1900. Several of the rooms in the house are still much as he left them and provide a fascinating insight into his life and work. Ruskin is buried in the churchyard at Coniston village. There is also a museum in the village which has exhibits describing his life and work and includes paintings, drawings and some of his personal possessions. The house also contains many interesting drawings and artistic treasures, together of course with the mandatory craft and gift shop. There is also a fine tea shop housed in what were once stables. Nice cakes.

The village is watched over by the Old Man of Coniston, a 2635 foot fell, popular with walkers.

The John Ruskin School at Coniston Lakes School Home page