Definitely feeling Arthur Ransome, Swallows and Amazons theme to the summer with lovely trip to Torver near Coniston Water for a summer break.
Wanted to write a few words and pictures about some of our favourite things to do in this area.
Brantwood House, Garden and Estate
Brentwood offers a fascinating insight into the world of John Ruskin and the last 28 years of his life spent at Coniston. Filled with many fine paintings, beautiful furniture and Ruskin’s personal treasures, the house retains the character of its famous resident.
Famous as a writer, artist and social reformer, many great thinkers have been influenced by Ruskin’s ideas. Brantwood remains a place of inspiration.
Stickle Ghyll, in Langdale.
Parking up at the National Trust carpark and the scrambling starts close to the carpark. Made for a really lovely grade one scramble up along the river and plenty of scope for either dry or wet feet depending on your preference.
Over night bivvy trip
We headed up to Throng Moss Reservoir above Torver for a night under the stars and were treated to the most amazing morning view.
The Bell, more scrambling.
The Bell is a pleasant short scramble that can be done in just under 30 minutes. We enjoyed it as a scramble in its own right although it would make a great scramble before heading up to Low Water Beck, or just as part of your walk up The Old Man of Coniston.
Day on the Coniston Water
Trip out on the Coniston Launch to see Wild Cat Island and the secret harbour (or Peel Island) followed by a swim in Coniston Water and food at the Bluebird Cafe.
Running along the disused railway line
between Torver and Coniston and ice cream
Trip to the beach
On our way back south we headed to Sandscale Haws Nature Reserve. Which is a National Nature Reserve with some of the best wildlife of its kind across the country and a lovely spot for a walk, although parking is a little limited. Another option is Walney Island Nature Reserve
