4.3
(76)
10,060
runners
369
runs
Jogging around Levers Water offers diverse terrain within the English Lake District, featuring a small lake at 1,355 ft (413 m) elevation. The area is characterized by rugged fells, including Wetherlam and the Old Man of Coniston, alongside the historical Coppermines Valley. Running routes here provide a mix of lakeside paths, challenging mountain trails, and views of natural features like Levers Water Falls. This landscape provides varied options for trail runners seeking elevation and scenic backdrops.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
5.0
(2)
37
runners
8.86km
01:01
200m
200m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
runners
6.61km
01:28
540m
540m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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163
runners
13.8km
02:02
930m
930m
Embark on a challenging jogging adventure with The Old Man of Coniston & Wetherlam loop, a difficult 8.6 miles (13.8 km) route that demands good fitness. You will gain a…
139
runners
12.7km
02:15
790m
790m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
94
runners
21.5km
03:18
1,090m
1,090m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Coniston is located at the northern end of the third largest lake in the Lake District: Coniston Water. Steam yacht cruises are offered on this lake. Coniston is said to be derived from the Old Norse words Konigs Tun or king's settlement. That king is said to have been Thorstein, a Viking who gave his name to Thurstinii Watra, the old name of Coniston Water. (Wikipedia)
5
0
Around 1590, the Company of Mines Royal began extracting copper from the Coniston copper veins. The first work was carried out entirely by hand. With brute force, the rock face was broken and tunnels were excavated very slowly. Only enough rock was removed to allow one person to pass through the tunnel, and these access tunnels are called 'coffin levels' because of their characteristic coffin shape. Excavating a 17th-century tunnel like Cobbler's Level could still take three years. The Elizabethan Company of Mines Royal was led by German experts from the Tyrol and Bavaria. Their mines penetrated more than 55 metres into the earth. Work continued after the English Civil War, but perhaps not to a great extent. At the end of the 17th century, gunpowder was introduced, which changed everything. Work went much faster and mines could go much deeper than before, up to more than 90 metres below the surface. The charges were placed in a hole drilled into the rock using 'jumpers', iron rods made on site. You can still see hand-drilled shot holes. Gunpowder was replaced by dynamite in 1877 and jumpers by compressed air drills in 1883. (Lake district national park)
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To describe this mountain, here is a quote: "Although cruelly scarred and disfigured by the quarries, the Old Man has retained a dignified bearing and still lifts his proud and venerable head to the sky. His tears flow quietly into Low Water and Goats Water, two beautiful mountain tarns, whence they eventually... find their way to Coniston Water, bathing his ancient feet." Alfred Wainwright, "A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, Book Four: The Southern Fells"
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The most spectacular angles for photographing Low Water are from above: it can be seen from the ridge between Brim Fell Rake and the Old Man, but also from the steep, rugged path between the Old Man and the village of Coniston. The shores of the Tarn can also be reached via this latter path. (Lakes, Meres, Tarns & Waters)
6
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The ruins of Saddlestone Mill are fascinating, derelict remnants of the old "Coniston slate and copper mines" on the northeastern flank of the Old Man of Coniston. The site is located approximately 2 km west of the village of Coniston and includes huge steel cables, old railway tracks, winding gear, buildings, and abandoned quarry tunnels.
6
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A beautiful waterfall, but difficult to view in the summer due to dense vegetation.
6
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Very much one of the iconic mountains of the Lake District, Wetherlam is a rugged 763-metre (2,502 ft) mountain top, and getting here is pretty hard work from any direction. It has a rocky summit plateau, and the views across towards the Coniston group are super nice. Now for the big decent!
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Coming to Swirl How from Great Carr is an easy affair; getting to it from Wetherlam is a different matter. If you come in from that direction, you are in for a good scramble on the 'Prison Band' section of the approach. To be honest, I would rather come up it than down it, as it looked like a fun scramble. There is a decent cairn on the top of Swirl How, and the views across to Wetherlam are great.
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There are over 370 running routes available around Levers Water, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these trails over 9000 times.
The terrain around Levers Water is quite varied, ranging from serene lakeside paths to challenging mountain trails and dense woodlands. You'll encounter rugged fells, including Wetherlam and the Old Man of Coniston, providing significant elevation gains and extensive views. The area is characterized by stunning mountains and lakes, offering a picturesque backdrop for your runs.
While many routes around Levers Water are challenging, there are 26 routes classified as easy. These typically involve less elevation gain and offer a gentler introduction to running in the Lake District. For example, some paths around the lake itself offer relatively flat sections.
Yes, there are several circular jogging routes available. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the 'Levers Water Circular Walk' (though primarily a walk) highlights the potential for circular routes, and many komoot tours, like View of Low Water Tarn – Old Man of Coniston summit loop from Coniston, are circular.
You'll encounter several notable natural features and historical landmarks. The Levers Water Falls on Church Beck are a prominent attraction. The Coppermines Valley itself is historically significant, with evidence of 17th-century copper mining, including ruins and a refurbished waterwheel. Surrounding fells like Wetherlam, Swirl How, and the Old Man of Coniston offer dramatic mountainous scenery and panoramic views.
The suitability for families depends on the specific route and the family's experience level. While some trails are challenging, there are easier paths that might be suitable for families looking for a gentle jog or walk. Always check the difficulty rating and elevation profile of a route before heading out with children.
Generally, dogs are welcome on public footpaths in the Lake District, including many trails around Levers Water. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code. Always check specific signage for any restrictions on individual routes or protected areas.
Parking is typically available in or near Coniston village, which serves as a common starting point for many routes leading up to Levers Water and the surrounding fells. From Coniston, you can access trails that lead into the Coppermines Valley and towards the lake.
Coniston village, the gateway to Levers Water, is served by local bus routes. From Coniston, you can then access the trails leading up to Levers Water. It's advisable to check current bus timetables for the most up-to-date information on services to Coniston.
The Lake District offers beauty year-round, but spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions for jogging with milder temperatures and stunning scenery. Summer can be busy, while winter offers a different, more challenging experience with potential for snow and ice on higher fells. Always check local weather forecasts before your run.
The running routes in Levers Water are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, the challenging ascents to fells like the Old Man of Coniston, and the extensive, panoramic views of the Lake District landscape.
Yes, for experienced trail runners seeking a significant challenge, routes like The Old Man of Coniston & Wetherlam loop from Coniston offer an 8.6-mile (13.8 km) path with substantial elevation gain. Another demanding option is Swirl How Summit – Old Man of Coniston Summit loop from Coniston, which covers over 20 km and includes multiple summits.


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