Coniston Old Man
About Coniston Old Man
Coniston Old Man towers over the village of Coniston and its lake. Mining remains on its slopes tell of its industrial past, while the summit gives superb views.
Height & Prominence of Coniston Old Man
Coniston Old Man stands at 803 metres (2635 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 493 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Coniston Old Man is part of the Lake District. The OS grid reference is SD 272978, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Coniston Old Man carries the classifications of Wainwright, Hewitt, Nuttall.
Location & Nearest Towns
Coniston Old Man is located in England, Cumbria, within Lake District National Park. It sits in the Southern Fells area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Lake District National Park authority.
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Coniston Old Man
Coniston Old Man is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 803m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coniston Old Man one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Coniston Old Man is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 803m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Coniston Old Man?
Coniston Old Man has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Coniston Old Man?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Coniston Old Man?
Coniston Old Man stands at 803m (2635ft) in England, Cumbria. Classified as a Wainwright and Hewitt and Nuttall, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Coniston Old Man? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
