We have to say this Coniston 4×4 experience is really rather swanky as they have the smartest fleet of off-roading vehicles ever seen this side of Skipton! At the start of the session these 4x4s are all in show-room condition with freshly polished gleaming paintwork so let’s see if you can get the mud splashes up to the windows…
This Coniston estate between Settle and Skipton is the perfect place for a spot of 4x4ing in the Dales. Well away from any form of public road the land around Coniston Hall is vast. We’re talking over 1400 acres. And the best thing about the 4×4 experience here? The fact that it is purpose-built to give you a both an obstacle route that gives you challenge after challenge in rapid succession as well as meandering trails that cross the seemingly endless moorlands and duck in and out of the forest too.
In fact you can go as full-on or as cruisey as you like. The Coniston team ensures each experience is geared towards each driver so if you want to push the car to its limits you can or you can go on a gentler voyage of discovery into the world of offroading North Yorkshire-style. What’s more you can invite up to three passengers to ride with you and if you book an hour or two hour session you can even let them share the driving with you so everyone can have a little go.
And what a setting it is here at Coniston. Originally a large farm estate the family diversified into offering country activities and providing accommodation. Today there’s a large hotel with spa and conference centre boasting Mcleod’s restaurant and the Huntsman’s Lodge where hungry 4x4ers can pop in anytime for refreshments.
But we must give the last word on this wonderful 4×4 venue in the heart of North Yorkshire to the fine collection of vehicles. The Coniston crew has invested very wisely in not one but several different 4×4 brands. There are the chunky and rugged Defender 90 and 110s from Land Rover the tarmac and mud loving Mitsubishi L200 Warrior and the bold and gutsy Isuzu DMAX. With this top-league line up that’s what we call a 4×4 experience!
