More recently Donald Campbell set a new world water speed record on the Lake in 1955, only to lose his life here in an attempt to regain the title 11 years later in his boat Bluebird.

While here take a trip on the lake either on the elegant steam yacht 'Gondola' built in 1859 and owned by the National Trust, or on one of the more frequent and up to date ferries that run the length of the lake. It is also possible to rent various types of boats so you can enjoy the lake at your own pace.

At the north west corner of the lake is the village of Coniston with much to interest the visitor and good places to take refreshment. Not much further down the road is the village of Torver providing a charming alternative .

Between the Coniston and Windermere lakes is the village of Hawkshead, probably the most picturesque village in Britain (and therefore the world) and looking as though it came off the pages of a fairy tale.

With views over Coniston Water from above the eastern shore is Brantwood, once the home of the poet, philosopher and painter John Ruskin. It is open to the public and definitely worth a visit. You could leave your car in Coniston village and take the ferry which has a landing below the house and makes for a much more enjoyable experience. The house also enjoys one of the best views of the Old Man Of Coniston, the dauntingly high fell forming the western horizon.

Walks:

The area around the lake is criss-crossed by public footpaths: on the east side is Grisdale Forest with many forest walks and items of sculpture dotted about and for which it has become well known and admired.