Hostels in Coniston, England

Coniston is one of the most popular towns in the Lake District, and rightly so, as it provides something for almost all visitors. The town is scenically situated between Coniston Water on one side and the iconic peak, the Coniston Old Man, on the other. As such, it is a haven for outdoors enthusiasts wanting to sail or hike; there is also plenty of caving in the abandoned mines that litter the slopes of the surrounding hills. Coniston hostels are located a short distance outside the village, but within walking distance of the centre and all the facilities available there. Beer lovers are well catered for, as the town is the home of the Coniston Brewing Company, whose Bluebird bitter has been a national champion. The town has a wide range of facilities, including an excellent selection of pubs and cafés, a small supermarket, petrol station, and a bank as well as a number of craft/gift shops. The church in the middle of the village is worth a visit and contains the tomb of John Ruskin, whose home lies on the shores of the lake. There is a small Ruskin museum in the town as well, which is well worth a visit. Coniston's other main -- and tragic -- claim to fame is the lake is where Donald Campbell was killed whilst trying to break the world water speed record. There is a large memorial to him in the centre of the town near the car park and public conveniences. On the water in addition to sailing, there are two boat services on which the lake that inspired Arthur Ransome's book, "Swallows and Amazons," can be explored and from which there are magnificent views in all directions. Coniston, with the range of facilities and perfect location, is an excellent town in which to base yourself for a thorough exploration of England's most scenic National Park.