Coniston Old Man
Standing proudly in the south west of the Lake District, the Old Man of Coniston (or, simply,
Coniston Old Man) is one of Lakeland's higher fells. Even non-climbers will enjoy
the stroll from nearby Coniston up Church Beck and into
Coppermines Valley to see the scars of the fell's industrial past. As the name
'Coppermines Valley' suggests, the sides of the Old Man were the scene of much
industrial exploitation, firstly for copper mining and later slate quarrying. Those activities
have left their blemishes, although many visitors find that the remains of these works add an
unusual interest to their walk.
The successful climber can enjoy breathtaking views all around, none more so than the aspect to the east, back over the town and Coniston Water.
And his deep-quarried sides were stronger
Goats may have leapt about Goat's Water"
For details of a recommended walk up the Old Man of Coniston click here