Oldham Evening Chronicle 09 December 2008

Old Man Took His Toll
By Ken Bennett

Mount Everest, at 29,028ft, is the highest mountain on Earth. By comparison the Old Man of Conistonn is apaltry 2,276ft. But a mountain is a mountain, I said, as we set out doe our hike to the summit. We did cheat a bit as well. Our accommodation and starting point was half way up.

We were staying at the Old Sawmill [The Coppermine Cottages] at the disused coppermines in Coniston. The sawmill lay derelict for many years, until it was converted into four cottages, each linked through internal passageways and doors to accommodate up to 26 people. Our quarter could sleep up to eight, but acted as an excellent base for me, my wife and son.

Map in hand we headed onwards and upwards. As we slowly made aour way to the Old Man's summit, we discovered the left overs from years of industrial exploitation firstly from copper mining and later from slate quarrying. The Old Man proved to be a challenging climb, and what it lacked in height it made up for in views, offering a dramatic panorama of the southern Lake District, Morecambe Bay and Coniston Water.

Sir Malcolm Campbell chose Coniston Water for his attempt at the water speed record in 1939, which he acgieved at more than 141mph. On his death, his son Donald took up where his farther left off. His aim was to better 300mph, which he did in 1967, but the craft Bluebird flipped in the air and disappeared into the lake. Campbell's body was recovered 34 years later. Attitudes to high speed water pursuits have since changed on the lakes. In 2005, a 10mph speed limit was enforced on Lake Windermere, effectively banning water skiing and powerbaots. But watersporters' loss is a mountain bikers' gain - it's the fastest growing outdoor sport in the region.

We picked up hire bikes at Grizedale Forest, which boasts the only purpose built mountain biking trailm in north England. The three-mile iphill climb introduced my legs to a new kind of pain. It was worth it, though, for the downhill thrill on the return leg. When returning the bikes to the cycle centre I pointed out the lack of "flatness" on our suggestde route. Next summer will see the addition onf a new family friendly trail, I was informed.

For those looking for a more laid-back experience, there's still plenty to see and do, like exploring the region's cultural connections. Artists and authors, such as Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, Turner and Constable, have all been seduced by its beauty and solitude.

Beatrix Potter's clan of naughty rabbits, industrious hedgehogs and two bad mice have a well documented association with Cumbria. Beatrix spent several childhood holidays in the Lake District, and fell in love with the peaceful village of Sawrey near Coniston. It was here she bought her first Cumbrian property, Hill Top Farm, the setting for several stories and her home for many years.

William Wordsworth also lived, wrote and found inspiration in the region. He penned his most famous poem after discovering daffodils growing along the lakeshore. His homes at Dove Cottage, Wordsworth House and Rydal Mount are owned by the National Trust and are open to visitors.

The best way to see the Lake District is by car - it's no surprise it was voted the most picturesque destination in England for a Sunday drive. It's the complete destination for a weekend away.