Coniston copper mines

Coniston copper mines consist of extensive tunnels and shafts spread across multiple levels through the valley. Remnants of processing buildings and wooden structures are still visible today, showing how the operation once functioned.

German miners started extracting copper at this location during the reign of Elizabeth I in the 16th century. Operations continued for hundreds of years before finally closing in 1914.

The museum in Coniston displays mining tools and documents showing what life was like for miners. The exhibits give a sense of the work underground and the conditions people faced during their time here.

Marked walking paths guide visitors to different parts of the mining complex and make exploration straightforward. Guided tours take people through restored tunnels and explain the mining methods that workers used.

The first youth hostel in the Lake District was established in 1931 inside a former mine manager's building. This shows how mining sites found new uses after extraction operations came to an end.

Location: Coniston

GPS coordinates: 54.38030,-3.10062

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:10