Swallows & Amazons Cruise with Coniston Launch in Cumbria
Difficulty
easy
Duration
about 1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no special physical conditioning required
Overview
Discover the magic of Coniston Water on a 80-minute cruise inspired by Arthur Ransome’s Swallows & Amazons. Perfect for families and book lovers, this experience offers stunning views and a taste of literary history in the Lake District.
Swallows & Amazons Cruise (Green Route)
For all ages! • 80 min • Great for families! • Ideal for lovers of the Swallows & Amazons stories
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on an enchanting 80-minute cruise on Coniston Water, exploring the real-life locations that inspired Arthur Ransome's beloved Swallows & Amazons series. Discover Wild Cat Island and other iconic spots while enjoying stunning scenery. This unique adventure is perfect for fans and families alike, with friendly dogs welcome on board!
As soon as you board our launch, you step into the world of the Swallows and the Amazons.
*** SPECIAL OFFER - 15% OFF FOR ONLINE BOOKINGS ***
Duration
80 minutes
About
Fun for those who are familiar with the Swallows & Amazons stories. Arthur Ransome used many places around Coniston Water to populate the imaginary lake of his books. Enjoy our 80 minute 10 mile cruise as we discover these places including Wild Cat Island.
The green route departs from Coniston Boat Landings and stops at Torver, Lake Bank, Sunny Bank, Brantwood, and returns to Coniston.
During the cruise we discover the various locations that Ransome used around Coniston Water in his ever-popular Swallows & Amazons series of books.
Prices
Adult: £22.00 reduced to £18.70 if booked online. Child (5-15yrs): £9.50 reduced to £8.08 if booked online. Under 5s free
More info
Of course there is no lake exactly similar to the one that Ransome used for his children’s adventures, but he did use real locations for the places that he worked into his stories.
On Coniston Water we will see Beckfoot, Holly Howe, Kanchenjunga, Wild Cat Island, the Amazons’ boathouse, and a host of other spots that Ransome used to create his fascinating world.
Coniston Water was used as one of the filming locations for both the 1974 and 2016 films Swallows and Amazons.
Friendly dogs are welcome!
Tickets for the Swallows and Amazons cruise also allow you to travel on our red and yellow routes during the same day at no extra charge.
Adventure Tips
Bring layers and a rain jacket
Weather on the water can change quickly; dressing in layers ensures comfort throughout the cruise.
Arrive early for the best seats
Getting to the dock 15-20 minutes before departure secures a great vantage point and seating preference.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting
Enhance your viewing experience by bringing binoculars to see birds and distant scenery clearly.
Leash dogs on board
Pets are welcome, but must be kept on a leash to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kingfishers
- Otters
History
Coniston Water has been a popular spot for boating and literature tourism since the Victorian era, with Arthur Ransome's stories cementing its place in literary history.
Conservation
Coniston Water is part of efforts to maintain the pristine environment of the Lake District, with initiatives focusing on preserving local wildlife and reducing pollution.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Ambleside
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Rain jacket or windbreaker
Keeps you comfortable during changing weather on the open water.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects you from sun exposure during the warmer months.
summer specific
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing opportunity from the boat.
Comfortable outdoor footwear
Sturdy shoes are recommended for walking around the dock area before and after the cruise.