The Lake District Guide

Steam Yacht Gondola on Coniston Water

The unrivalled cruising experience of the Lakes! A charming spectacle for onlookers and a luxurious experience for passengers - cruising on Gondola is a unique experience!

Owned by the National Trust, the present day Gondola, built in 1980, is an exact replica of the original Gondola which sailed in Victorian times, and her passengers can enjoy all the luxury and atmosphere of a bygone area. Gondola has a colourful history which can be retold by her enthusiastic crew and as Gondola calls in at Brantwood House, there is also the opportunity to make a day of it and combine a cruise with a visit to Brantwood House and Gardens.

At weekends, Gondola will call in at Monk Coniston jetty, where passengers can disembark and enjoy the recently opened access through the beautiful Monk Coniston estate, renowned for its arboretum and a route through beautiful woodland to Tarn Hows (more details below).

When Gondola is privately hired, guests can enjoy an extra touch of luxury with catering provided by Lucy's of Ambleside.

News from Steam Yacht Gondola 2008

This season, you can Indulge in a luxurious cruise on Coniston Water aboard Steam Yacht Gondola, a unique rebuilt Victorian sailing vessel, and combine your trip with a beautiful walk along the brand new National Trust footpath through the fabulous grounds and walled garden of Monk Coniston Hall by disembarking at Monk Coniston jetty (every weekend, weather permitting). The path connects with walking routes to the famous Victorian beauty spot, Tarn Hows.

The new permissive footpath completes the second phase of the Monk Coniston and Tarn Hows project which has been supported by a £450,000 Heritage Lottery Fund grant (and £20,000 Lake District Sustainability Fund grants.)
A walk leaflet is available on board Gondola or from Coniston Community Tourist Information Centre.

Events on Gondola

There will be opportunities throughout the season to participate in guided walks, combined with a cruise on Gondola with a National Trust warden, including a family friendly tree trail in July.

A highlight of the year will be a visit by Bill Smith, leader of The Bluebird Project, whose team recovered Campbell’s Bluebird from the lake in 2001. As part of Coniston Water Festival, he will be recounting his tales of the discovery and salvage of Bluebird on board Gondola on the evening of 11th July.

For a full listing of Gondola’s events this year, you can visit  www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gondola

Photo credits: NTPL, Paul Hall (used with permission)