Lake Coniston
A walk around a water’s edge….
Last week saw bright, clear skies and sunny afternoons in the Lake District so I managed to escape from the kitchen for an hour and retrace long forgotten steps of mine back to Lake Coniston…
Best known for Donald Cambell’s ill fated attempt at breaking the water speed record in 1967 Coniston water sits below the watching eye of the Old Man of Coniston an imposing mountain much favoured by fell walkers it’s 2,663 foot ascent is, as Alfred Wainwright wrote; “no Matterhorn” but quite rightly he goes on to describe the relationship between the mountain and the village of Coniston as ‘an affinity”.
Donald Cambell had previously beat the world water record and on January 4th 1967 as his boat reached 300mph his boat flipped and somersaulted killing Cambell instantly. His body was never found and his boat, located by divers shortly after the accident was lost again until a search party located the wreckage in 2001.
Away from the noise and glamour of world record attempts Coniston enjoys a comparatively peaceful life compared to its sister lake, Windermere where tourists arrive by the coach load. The road gradually winds its way upwards, along the lake shore towards the mountain range which, at my time of visiting was covered by a layer of snow…
Compared to some of the other lakes in the area Coniston borders on the nondescript for much of its view from the roadside. Five miles long and half a mile wide it is the third largest lake in Cumbria. Wainwright’s decripton of walks through the valley’s and past quarries and old copper mines is enchanting and perfectly illustrates the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
Love this place - great shots as well
March 13, 2009 @ 9:10 am
One of the best views in the lakes is of Coniston Water. There is a little lay by just after Blawith where there are no trees to obscure the view. Stunning when the lake is flat calm.
March 13, 2009 @ 9:28 am
Miles,
My goodness, it is tempting to go back to that wonderful area. I have had it referred to as the ‘Bavaria of England’.
Lovely photos
Elsie
March 13, 2009 @ 11:14 am
These are great photos, Miles. Fascinating story and the contrast from a peaceful and isolated lake to speed boat crashes is interesting, to say the least.
Beautiful! I love seeing your countryside.
I will be heading down south to Taos, New Mexico for a weekend of skiing, fine food, and visiting with friends, so if I don’t check in it isn’t because I’m ignoring you all. I’ll bring my computer, but may be busy gallivanting around. Knowing Miles, I’ll be 10 posts behind in a matter of minutes. I’ll have to set aside a whole morning to catch up once I return.
Take care, everyone.
Melissa
March 13, 2009 @ 1:18 pm
Great photos, Miles. I love the wide angle perspective on the second.
I last went to Consiton as a boy and, as you can imagine for an 8-year old boy, it was all about Donald Campbell for me. I even remember walking around the museum. (The Ruskin - needed Google to refresh the grey cells) I really must get back there.
In the meantime I will crack open a bottle or two of Coniston Bluebird in Donald’s honour.
GDave
March 13, 2009 @ 2:52 pm
Oh PS.
Have a fantastic weekend, Melissa!!!
March 13, 2009 @ 2:53 pm
Rod,
Thanks mate, I had to make the most of a nice day!
Miles
March 13, 2009 @ 10:36 pm
Elsie,
That’s a nice way of naming it, most apt.
Miles
March 13, 2009 @ 10:36 pm
Melissa,
Have a great time, tell us all about it when you get back!
Miles
March 13, 2009 @ 10:37 pm
GDave,
Glad it brought back memories, enjoy your brew
Miles
March 13, 2009 @ 10:39 pm
Tony,
Welcome to the site and thank you for taking the time to comment.
I must have a look for the place you mention, it sounds wonderful.
Thank you for sharing that with us.
Miles
March 13, 2009 @ 10:40 pm