Discover the stunning sights of Coniston Water on a scenic boat trip that includes a charming stop at Brantwood. Perfect for families and dog lovers alike, this relaxing cruise offers unmatched views and cultural insights into the Lake District. Learn more below!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, no physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Coniston Water has inspired artists and writers for centuries, most notably associated with John Ruskin and the Lake District’s artistic heritage.
Conservation
Coniston Launch emphasizes eco-friendly practices with responsible boating initiatives to minimize environmental impact.
Coniston Launch
Discover the stunning sights of Coniston Water on a scenic boat trip that includes a charming stop at Brantwood. Perfect for families and dog lovers alike, this relaxing cruise offers unmatched views and cultural insights into the Lake District. Learn more below!
Coniston Launch is a passenger boat operator based in Coniston, England, offering scenic cruises and hop-on hop-off services on Coniston Water. The company operates three main routes—Red, Yellow and Green—plus themed and special sailings that showcase local history, literature and natural scenery. Regular services include single-trip tickets on the Red and Yellow routes, a Northern Service hop-on & hop-off, and an 80-minute Southern Lake Explorer and Green Route cruises that highlight locations linked to Arthur Ransome’s Swallows & Amazons and the Campbell speed-record history.
Passengers can also purchase a seven-day ticket providing unlimited travel across routes from first use, and a Brantwood Special Direct runs a direct ten-minute crossing to Brantwood with hourly return options. Several cruises offer guided commentary, discounted entry to Brantwood house and café, and flexible hop-on, hop-off access at multiple jetties including Torver and Brantwood. Timed sailings include a 60-minute Wild Cat Island cruise, 45-minute Northern Service sailings and 80-minute Green Route themed cruises. Many advertised trips welcome friendly dogs on board. Coniston Launch highlights local points of interest such as Wild Cat Island, Brantwood (the former home of John Ruskin), and sites associated with Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell’s speed record attempts. The service appeals to families, literature and history fans, and visitors seeking leisurely exploration of the lake. Tickets and routes are designed for flexibility, allowing visitors to explore shore destinations and return on later sailings for a relaxed day on Coniston Water.
Tickets cover access to themed cruises and special historic commentary sessions onboard.
Routes
3 routes
Red, Yellow and Green routes
Trip Lengths
45–80 min
Durations from 45 to 80 minutes
Special Sailings
Brantwood Direct
10-minute crossings, hourly returns
Dog Friendly
Dogs welcome
Friendly dogs allowed on advertised sailings
Select single-trip, hop-on hop-off, Brantwood Direct or a seven-day ticket to explore Wild Cat Island, Brantwood, and historic Campbell sites.
Dress for the weather
Bring layers and waterproof gear as the weather on the water can change quickly.
Arrive early for the best seats
Getting to the boat dock early ensures you secure a prime spot with unobstructed views.
Bring a camera or phone
Capture the stunning scenery, especially at Brantwood and the surrounding peaks.
Kick back and relax
Enjoy the tranquil pace of the cruise—there’s no rush, just beautiful vistas.
Warm clothing
Layered clothing helps stay comfortable during the boat ride, especially in cooler months.
fall|winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture stunning lake and landscape views from the boat and at shore stops.
Sun protection
Sunscreen and hats shield you from sun exposure during warmer days on the water.
summer
Water
Stay hydrated during your outing, especially on sunny or warm days.