Coniston, Broughton-in-Furness and Millom - 3 Day Itinerary... Let's Go.

Stunning Lakeland scenery, a rich cultural heritage and brilliant beaches await! Discover something unique with this 3-Day itinerary starting in the pretty village of Coniston and heading out to the coast at Millom, along the way taking in many beautiful sites and fun activities.

Looking out to Coniston Village from Brantwood

Day One

Coniston

Your first stop is the picturesque village of Coniston, found at the foot of one of Cumbria’s most popular fells, the Old Man of Coniston (802m) and by the western shores of the 8km long Coniston Water.

The area’s cultural heritage centres around copper mining, sheep farming and slate quarrying. The old breed of Herdwick sheep can still be spotted on the fells, along with abandoned shafts and open workings - remnants of the mining industry. 

Bluebird on display in the Ruskin Museum

Learn more about the story of Coniston with a visit to the Ruskin Museum. Discover well-known figures with links to the area, such as Victorian writer, philosopher and art critic John Ruskin and the author of the iconic Swallows & Amazons series Arthur Ransome. The Ruskin Museum is now also home to Donald Campbell's iconic hydroplane Bluebird, used in an ill-fated attempt to break the water speed record on Coniston Water in 1967.      

On the eastern shore of Coniston Water, take in the lovely view from Brantwood, the historic home of John Ruskin. Preserved exactly as it was when he left it, it’s now open to the public as a museum, showcasing his life and work. There’s also a cafe, and extensive gardens and woodland trails to enjoy. 

Don’t forget to stop by the Tourist Information in the centre of Coniston to pick up more information on things to see and do.

Brantwood, the former home of John Ruskin

Around Coniston

Looking for an adventure in the great outdoors? From stunning fell tops and spectacular crags to beautiful valleys and shimmering lakes, there’s plenty to explore.

Exploring the fells of the western Lake District

Take advantage of expert guidance with local activity providers Path to Adventure, Genuine Adventures or More Than Mountains and have a go at abseiling, scrambling, canyoning, rock climbing, canoeing or paddleboarding. You may also want to improve your navigation skills or simply enjoy a guided fell walk with an experienced mountain leader.

If you are looking to explore by yourself then remember to be Adventure Smart. Check the weather forecast, pack appropriate clothing and equipment, and make sure you have the right knowledge and skills for the day ahead.

Paddling on Coniston Water

Day Two

Coniston Water

On your second day, take to the water and spend some time cruising the lake, soaking up the lovely scenery and learning more about the surrounding area.

Travel in style on Steam Yacht Gondola, a beautifully rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht operated by the National Trust. Enjoy the charm of the luxury saloon or relax on her open-air deck as she glides across Coniston Water.

Coniston Launch

Alternatively, Coniston Launch provides a ferry service to 6 jetties including Brantwood. With ticket options allowing you to hop on and off all day, why not combine your cruise with a walk along the lake shore. There are also special cruises for fans of the Swallows & Amazons books or those with an interest in the speed record attempts that have taken place on the lake.

Coniston Boating Centre hire out motorboats, rowing boats, sailing dinghies, canoes and paddleboards – so you can explore the lake at your own pace. Or hire a mountain bike or electric bike to explore on two wheels. Post adventure, refuel in their Bluebird Café.

Exploring Coniston Water

Duddon Valley and Broughton-in-Furness

South of Coniston, you’ll find Broughton-in-Furness. Dating back to the 11th Century, this scenic market town features a lovely, cobbled square surrounded by independent shops and pubs.

It’s also the ideal base for those looking to explore the quieter fells of the western Lake District and the peaceful, rugged Duddon Valley. Visit for stunning scenery, scenic riverside picnic spots and traditional pubs.

Enjoying the quieter fells of the western Lake District

For an accessible walk with great scenery, take a stroll along the Broughton Railway trail which follows the old railway line that once went all the way to Coniston to support the mining industry. Today you’ll find a compact, stone track that ascends gradually, making it a suitable walk for many, no matter your ability.

Close by there’s Cumbrian Heavy Horses, the UK's only specialised heavy horse-riding establishment. This small, family-run equestrian centre is unique in their use of Clydesdale, Shire and Ardennes heavy horse breeds. They can cater for all abilities with options for exploring local trails, fells and beaches.

Day Three

Around Millom

Sitting by the Duddon River Estuary with Black Combe Fell on its doorstep, the former fishing village of Millom has a varied history with a rich industrial heritage thanks to the mining boom in the 19th century. Visit today to enjoy brilliant beaches and fascinating wildlife along with plenty of peace and quiet in this lesser visited corner of the county.   

Head to the coastal lagoon and grasslands of RSPB Hodbarrow Nature Reserve for a chance to spot a great range of birdlife. Take a picnic, follow a nature trail, go for a walk around the lagoon seawall or visit the hide from May to July to watch the tern colony in full swing.

The stunning and peaceful Haverigg Beach

Haverigg Beach is best visited at low tide to enjoy an excellent seaside stroll in a tranquil setting. Stroll out over the shingle beach which then turns into a vast expanse of sand. Breath in the fresh sea air, make a sandcastle or explore the many sand dunes. Dogs are also welcome but make sure they are on a lead when close to the RSPB reserve.

The England Coast Path

A section of the King Charles III England Coast Path National Trail starts at Green Road train station, before passing by Haverigg, Millom and plenty of dunes, beaches and salt marshes before finishing in Silecroft. Here you’ll find the popular Silecroft Beach Café - designed by award-winning Scottish Architects and offering an idyllic setting to relax, recharge and enjoy some great food. Soak up the stunning views of the West Coast, the Irish Sea and Black Combe fell while enjoying a stroll on the beach.

Keen to discover more? This National Trail then continues all the way up the West Coast of Cumbria to the town of Silloth. Northern’s handy rail service along the Cumbrian Coast Line makes it easy to plan linear walks too, hopping on and off the train as you please.

Taking a stroll on Silecroft Beach

Places to eat and drink

From hearty lunches to pub favourites, there are plenty of great options to enjoy some tasty Cumbrian food between all the adventure.

Tuck into a pub classic or a traditional Cumbrian dish at The Crown Inn or The Yewdale Inn in Coniston village centre. Near the lake, The Coniston Inn offers great food and alfresco dining. Relax in their garden courtyard with a local real ale.     

For more wonderful vistas, stop by Brantwood and take a break with a tea, coffee or light lunch on their terrace overlooking the lake.

Down on the coast, Silecroft Beach Café offers a tasty menu full of local produce. Savour a scrumptious cake and coffee, or a traditional Cumbrian breakfast while you marvel at the fantastic coastal views.

Silecroft Beach Café

Accommodation

Coppermines Lakes Cottages offers a beautiful selection of self-catering cottages for short breaks or full weeks, and with options for groups from 2 to 22.

From quirky cottages full of characterful features to luxury 5-star homes on the water’s edge, there’s something to suit everyone. Get ready to relax in a hot tub with mountain views or get cosy by a roaring log fire. Their spectacular Mountain Cottages are even perched high in the Coppermines Valley, offering a truly unique location for your stay.

Lakes & Country Escapes and Cottagescumbria.com also offer a range of self-catering properties around Coniston to suit every taste and budget. Or you may want to book a room in a traditional inn in the village centre, options include The Yewdale Inn or The Crown Inn. Down the road and closer to the lake shore, you’ll also find The Coniston Inn.

On the western shores of Coniston Water, you’ll find camping pods, glamping pods and pitches for tents at the Coniston Park Coppice Site. Nearby, Spoon Hall is a quiet family run farm site with 3 static caravans for hire.

Enjoy a tranquil stay in a cottage or log cabin at the traditional family run Thornthwaite farm, surrounded by nature in the Woodland Valley near Broughton-in-Furness.

Further on, closer to Millom and next to Cumbrian Heavy Horses, you’ll find Baystone Bank Farm Campsite.

Enjoying drinks at The Coniston Inn

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