Coniston Water has a certain serenity. Yet there is much history to this place. A good place to start is the Ruskin Museum in Coniston. John Ruskin was one of the great Victorians. Into everything, he was an artist, a teacher, a writer, a philosopher...the list is endless and this museum tells the life of the man and the impact he made. But the museum also tells of life here in Coniston. There are exhibits and galleries relating to the coppermines and geology of the locality and also the life of Donald Campbell and his fatal speed trip on the Bluebird in 1967.

From Coniston Pier you can take the steam yacht Gondola a Victorian steamer. A graceful boat, it will give you a unique view of the exceptional scenery surrounding the water.

Down in the southern part of the peninsula you will find Ulverston. A lively festival and market town, the cobbled streets give this town a certain charm. For a light hearted visit you must go to the Laurel and Hardy museum in the town. Devoted to the comic duo everything you would ever want to know about them is here. The founder of the museum, Bill Cubin, certainly built a splendid collection of memorabilia.

Grange-over-Sands, sitting on Morecambe Bay, is a delightful Edwardian town. The traffic free promenade is a relaxing stroll and gives splendid views across the bay. Holker Hall and Lakeland Motor Museum is nearby and is a Victorian delight. The house is home to Lord and Lady Cavendish and visitors are made to feel at home. The garden is beautiful and is full of colour, this part of the region having a milder climate than most parts. The Motor museum also has a fine collection of memorabilia and is an interesting exhibition.

With its lakes, shorelines and mountains this part of the region has all aspects of nature and its certainly beautiful. You will see much wildlife if you spend some time walking and experiencing the countryside but there is also the South Lakes Wild Animal Park, in Dalton-in-Furness, which has been described as one of Britains best conservation parks and an enjoyable day for the family.

This part of the region will provide a relaxing but interesting trip for all the family.