Old Man of Coniston

The Old Man of Coniston is a fell in England's Lake District and rises with steep faces on three of its sides. Its summit features both a natural ground point and a man-made plinth that mark the highest point in the Furness Fells.

The mountain saw intensive copper mining throughout the 19th century, leaving behind shafts and structures on its northeastern slopes. These mining remnants continue to shape the appearance of the landscape today.

The mountain carries a name rooted in local tales about a giant and holds a special place in Lake District folklore. Its name appears in regional stories and connects visitors to the area's storytelling traditions.

Multiple marked trails lead from Coniston village to the summit, with parking available at Walna Scar Road serving as convenient starting points. The routes vary in difficulty and offer options suitable for different experience levels.

The summit has two different height markers: a natural ground point and a man-made plinth standing slightly higher. This detail often surprises visitors who discover that the highest point in Furness Fells is actually a constructed feature rather than a purely natural peak.

Location: Cumbria

Elevation above the sea: 803 m

GPS coordinates: 54.37000,-3.11900

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:14