The Old Man of Coniston

The Old Man of Coniston is a solid choice for dogs, earning a 7 out of 10 on our dog friendly rating. The upper fell opens up into great walking terrain, and Low Water tarn on the descent is a popular swimming spot that dogs tend to love. The score is held back by the uneven quarry paths on the lower slopes and the sheep that are regularly present on the farmland approaches back into Coniston.

The upper fell is largely unfenced and offers good off-lead potential, with a moderate livestock risk that confident owners should be able to manage. That said, leads are needed on the lower quarry paths where the terrain is loose and uneven, and through the farmland sections on the return into Coniston where sheep are always present. So expect a mix , off-lead freedom on the high mountain, leads required as you approach and descend back into the valley.

This is a genuine mountain day with 770 metres of elevation gain over 11.3 km, so it's best suited to fit dogs who are comfortable with sustained climbing and rough ground , not a route for puppies or older dogs who struggle on uneven terrain. The lower quarry paths can be tricky underfoot, so a lead is advisable there. Parking is pay and display at Coniston village car park (LA21 8HJ), and it gets busy on summer weekends, so an early start is worthwhile. After the walk, both the Sun Hotel and the Black Bull in Coniston are dog friendly if you fancy a well-earned rest.