Happy (re) 40th Birthday Coppermines!
Saturday 17th June saw celebrations take place here in Coppermines Valley in honour of 40 years of The Coppermines as we now know and love it.
It was back in 1983 when Coppermines Founder Philip Johnson fell in love with Coppermines Valley and purchased the then derelict mining buildings, once the heart of the working valley and sadly reduced to neglected ruins.
A huge effort ensued by Phil, along with some of his dedicated family and friends, to rebuild and restore the buildings ,transforming them into The Coppermines Mountain Cottages and Mountain Wedding Venue they are today.
Following the restoration works, The Coppermines Lakes Cottages agency, based at The Bridge Cottages in Coniston village, soon followed which now looks after around 90 cottages in the Coniston and surrounding area and now welcomes thousands of visitors to the South Lakes area every year.
Today, as well as being the destination of choice for holiday makers, The Coppermines is also the venue of choice for couples looking for an utterly unique Lake District venue to hold their most special of days. Where else can you get married surrounded by towering mountain peaks, picturesque rivers and cascading waterfalls?
All this was celebrated at The Coppermines this week. The day began with a champagne reception, followed by speeches including Philip Johnston, still Managing Director after 40 years and from guest of honour, Gina Campbell, daughter of Donald Campbell, who lost his life when Bluebird crashed on Coniston Water whilst attempting to break his world water speed record in 1967.
Guided walks around the spectacular valley took in the views while also explaining some of the fascinating history to guests, while a slide show gave a visual record of the valley from early Victorian times, through the restoration work, including what are now the four Mountain Cottages, The Copper Wedding Barn and the rebuilding of the heritage waterwheel in 2020, right up to the present day.
Afternoon tea was enjoyed by guests before an evening of food, live music from local band Hatchet, to whom we say a massive thanks, and, to finish off the night; plenty of dancing.
We would like to say a big thank you to Evans Marquees, Fjell Tipis and Lakes Loos for providing such a fantasic service for us over our anniversary weekend.
Thank you too to The Black Bull, Coniston for supplying their locally brewed ales, Coronet Hire Service, for the supply of catering equipment and Sound Smith, Kendal for al their help.
In all, it was a fabulous day and everyone at The Coppermines would like to say a huge thank you to everybody who came along and helped us celebrate such a momentous day.
Thank you!
