Walk of the Month: Coniston to Tarn Hows Wildlife Walk

The February half term is nearly over, but before your little tykes tootle off back to school, let them loose on a wonderful wildlife walk in Cumbria.

Cumbria is one of England’s wildest and most beautiful counties; much of it is mountainous and rural, and it’s famously home to the UK’s beloved national park, the Lake District.

Head to just any old area of the county this time of year however, and you’ll likely be met with long queues and lots of crowds. The Lake District is one of the UK’s most popular winter holiday destinations, so be prepared to share the beauty en masse.

Or, don’t. Look closely enough, and it’s still possible to find peace and tranquillity amid this coveted wilderness – even during the half term. Attached below is a wonderful wildlife walk that’ll see you and the kids whisked off on a remote hike in a jiff.

The Walk

At five miles, the route poses a fair challenge for amateur hikers, and should take around 2 ½ hours to complete. The trail follows a figure of eight from Coniston Water to Tarn Hows, taking in the majestic walled garden of Monk Coniston Hall en route.

The Route

Park in the Monk Coniston car park to north of Coniston Water before taking the path into the opposing field. Follow the path until you come to a wood. Beyond the trees, you’ll come to the pleasant walled garden of Monk Coniston Hall.

When you’ve tired of the grounds, continue onwards, taking extra care crossing the road if you’re walking with young children. Ahead of you lies more woodland, where you should keep your eyes peeled for the elusive red squirrel; a beloved species which has endured in the area for centuries.

Soon, you’ll come to a narrow bridge; cross this and continue on the path signposted ‘Tarn Hows car park’. You’ll find pockets of open pastureland land ahead, where you may see a flock of Cumbria’s Herdwick Sheep. These delightful livestock are born with a brown coat and white face, and have grown to become a symbol of the Lake District.

As the path winds across heathland toward Tarn Hows, keep your eyes peeled for adders and lizards, which can often be spotted scurrying into the brush. When you reach Tarn Hows, take the circular trail around the water, enjoying the stunning views across the lake to the distant fells beyond.

When you reach the car park, follow the exit road back towards Coniston. The first footpath on your right will lead you to Tarn Hows Cottage. Don’t go all the way there however; instead, take the footpath on your left which will lead you downhill to Boon Crag Farm. And don’t rush – the view is simply beautiful here.

Before long, you’ll reach the farm; turn left towards the saw mill until you reach the road. Once there, turn right and follow the footpath towards Coniston Water and the car park at Monk Coniston.

Download the comprehensive route and map for this walk here.

Rent a self-catering cottage in the Lake District

The Lake District is ideal for all sorts of outdoorsy activities. Whether it be walking, cycling, climbing or kayaking, you and the kids will love exploring this wild and wonderful land. To book your Lake District break, choose your favourite Cumbrian holiday home today, and get set for a refreshing break this spring.