ConistonUnited Kingdom

Coniston is a quaint village surrounded by mountains in the heart of the Lake District. Bordering its namesake lake, the commune has charming pubs, shops and restaurants. Spend days hiking over hills and rock formations to appreciate the gorgeous countryside.

Snap photos of the charming Tudor houses of the village center with mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop. Climb the Old Man of Coniston, the largest of the region’s mountains, about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) west of the village.

Visit the Ruskin Museum to learn about the region’s connection to the 19th-century artist, writer and conservationist John Ruskin. It also has exhibits on other writers and intriguing aspects of the region.

Walk southeast for 0.6 mile (1 kilometer) to reach Coniston Boating Centre on the western side of Coniston Water. Rent canoes and kayaks for a fun day on the water with your family. Take a cruise to enjoy the remote tranquility of Peel Island. The island was the inspiration for the fictional Wild Cat Island in the novel Swallows and Amazons.

Rent a bike to cycle around the perimeter of the lake, which is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) long. Visit quaint villages hidden between the hilly forests. Brantwood is a majestic mansion with a park and café on the eastern side of the water. It belonged to John Ruskin and today showcases many of his former possessions.

Hear about the many efforts to set the world speed record on the lake. One attempt led to the death of boating daredevil Donald Campbell, as he tried to set a 300-mile-per-hour (480-kilometer-per-hour) record.

Summers here are cool and pleasant, while winters are fairly mild with occasional snow. The village is a little south of the center of Lake District National Park in northwestern England. Drive northwest for 300 miles (480 kilometers) from London to reach the area. Nearby villages include Grizedale, Ambleside and Broughton Mills.

Coniston is a place for quiet contemplation, with an artistic past and gorgeous lakeside scenery.