Coniston is the place to be this summer if you love a traditional family getaway full of outdoor fun and adventure.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the launch of the original Swallows and Amazons film (1974) – based on the famous Arthur Ransome books – which made locations in Coniston magical for kids of all ages.
Ransome modelled many of his literary locations on places around Coniston. Whether it’s Coniston Water’s Peel Island (Ransome’s Wild Cat Island), the River Crake (Octopus Lagoon) or the Old Man of Coniston (Ransome’s Kanchenjunga) – the Lakeland village is the perfect place for a Swallows and Amazon themed, adventure filled, family day out or longer holiday.
Phil Johnston, from holiday accommodation company The Coppermines Lakes Cottages, said: “Whether or not you’ve read the Swallows and Amazons books, or seen the film, a holiday here splashing around in the lake or exploring Coppermines Valley will make for marvellous memories.”
(Image: Cumbria Tourism)
One of the Swallows and Amazons series, Pigeon Post, was set in a fictionalised version of Coppermines Valley. One of the holiday cottages you can stay in there is named after a character in the book, Slater Bob. Ransome’s character was based on a real person – old miner John Shaw – who actually lived in Slater Bob’s Cottage! (Coincidentally, there’s a new “Pigeon Post” themed exhibition at the Lakeland Motor Museum in Backbarrow which features a 1928 Trojan car of the type once owned by Ransome.)
While the area has always sparkled, the Ransome stories have added some real magic that you and your family can tap into.
You can have your very own Swallows and Amazons adventure by taking a 90 minute Swallows and Amazons themed cruise across the lake with the Coniston Launch.
It lets you discover the picturesque landscapes Ransome drew inspiration from. You will see the locations which inspired Beckfoot, Holly Howe, Kanchenjunga, Wild Cat Island, the Amazons’ boathouse, and a host of other spots Ransome used to create his world.
Coniston Water was used as one of the filming locations for both the 1974 and the more recent 2016 Swallows and Amazons films.
How about taking a trip to Peel Island (Wild Cat Island) by kayak or canoe courtesy of Joint Adventures?
Once there you get to explore the island and imagine John, Susan, Titty and The Boy Roger enjoying their adventures.
What better way to make the most of a Swallows and Amazons themed adventure break than by staying in Coniston?
For cottages and accommodation check out www.coppermines.co.uk/ and for more inspiration visit www.visitlakedistrict.com/
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