Hilly horizons and shooting stars: a car-free adventure across Coniston and south Cumbria

Boats, trains and buses lead to a hauntingly beautiful side of the Lake District, bursting with wildlife, culture and relics of the past. While dark-sky canoeing makes for a magical night The ripples are deep gold in the sunset light as we paddle across Coniston Water towards Wild Cat Island. Officially known as Peel Island, this is where the children camp in Arthur Ransome's Swallows and Amazons. The canoe glides between rocks into the hidden harbour with its pebbly beach, and we climb, excited...