Bluebell Shepherd’s Hut: Dixon Ground, Coniston, LA21 8HQ
Website: Coppermines Lakes Cottages
Phone: 015394 41765
Email: info@coppermines.co.uk
Facebook: @TheCopperminesLakesCottages
There’s something incredibly liberating about slowing down, stripping away from the noise of daily life and reconnecting with nature. That’s exactly what I did during my stay at Bluebell Lodge, a charming shepherd’s hut in Coniston nestled below the dramatic fells.
From the moment I arrived, I felt a shift in my mood and my mind finally stopped racing as I relaxed into the soothing rhythm of the great outdoors. Tucked away on the Coppermines Estate, Bluebell Lodge encourages you to simplify your life, breathe deeper and rediscover what matters. As someone with to-do lists that only ever seem to grow, I revelled in the moments of calm.
Bluebell Lodge Location
The setting is nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by fells, ancient woodlands and meadows grazed by Herdwick sheep, Bluebell Lodge is perfect for anyone who craves both solitude and adventure. Each morning, I would watch the snow as it dusted the peaks and trees, a stark contrast to my usual weekday mornings. And being just several hundred yards from the nearest pub and Coniston village itself, I was never short of places to eat.
Shepherd’s Hut Facilities
What sets Bluebell Lodge apart from any other shepherd’s hut in the Lake District that I’ve stayed in, is how effortlessly it blends rustic charm with modern comforts. The beautifully designed lodge is handcrafted from wood and galvanized steel, with the comfiest king-size bed, a compact but fully equipped kitchenette and a snug sitting area. Warm lighting and natural wood give it an intimate, cosy feel, so it’s ideal for a couple’s romantic escape in the Lake District. The Coniston Coppermines lodges are also dog friendly and provide a designated dog field where they can run off the lead.
One of the highlights of my stay was sinking into the private outdoor hot tub with a glass of wine and watching the evening light shift across the fells. The hushed sounds of the surrounding landscape made it feel like the whole world had paused just for me.
Things to Do in Coniston
There are lots of walks around Coniston, with hiking trails right from the doorstep of the shepherd’s huts. The estate itself has a network of footpaths that wind through woodlands and the Coppermines Valley. I headed up past the Youth Hostel towards the foot of Coniston Old Man, one of Wainwright’s fells documented in his Pictorial Guide, to discover the stunning waterfalls and the old mining landscape.
It was so fascinating to see remnants of the past, including the heritage waterwheel, old workers’ cottages and copper heart stone.
There are plenty of plunge pools and tarns dotted around Coniston, perfect for wild swimming or a quick dip. I opted out on this occasion due to the freezing temperatures!
Further afield, you can follow the Tarn Hows trail, a gentle, circular walk with iconic Lake District views; walk along the shores of Coniston Water; or hike up to Banishead Quarry. Don’t worry if hiking isn’t your thing, the village is full of character and home to the Ruskin Museum, cute cafes and a selection of traditional Lakeland pubs.
The Coppermines Lakes Cottages and Shepherd’s Hut Lodges
What I love about The Coppermines Lakes Cottages is how they’ve created a collection of holiday experiences rooted in Cumbrian authenticity. Bluebell Lodge is just one of several shepherd’s huts on the estate and each has its own personality. I’ve also heard wonderful things about The Mountain Cottages, which stand at the heart of the valley, below the Old Man of Coniston. A beautiful location for dog friendly holiday cottages with hot tubs.
