4th January 2027 marks 60 years since Donald Campbell CBE lost his life on Coniston Water while attempting to raise his own world water speed record in Bluebird K7.
The Ruskin Museum will not be holding an event to celebrate the anniversary. We feel that the day itself should remain what it has always been in Coniston: a time for quiet remembrance and reflection.
As in previous years, there will be a respectful gathering at Donald’s memorial and at his grave, where those who wish to do so can pay their respects and remember the man whose life and remarkable achievements became so closely connected with Coniston.
We will, however, be marking the anniversary on Sunday 3 January with a special Donald Campbell Walk & Talk, exploring the places, people and stories associated with Donald, Bluebird and his years in Coniston.
This is a full day event, lunch, refreshments and admission to The Ruskin Museum are included.
Everyone will receive a commemorative certificate signed and dated by Dr Mitchell, Gina Campbell, Anthony ‘Robbie’ Robinson and Tracy Hodgson as a memento of the day.
Programme
10.00am Our day begins at the Reading Room, Coniston Institute with Registration & Tea/Coffee
10.30am Welcome by Tracy Hodgson, Director of The Ruskin Museum
Talk “Donald Campbell Bluebird – The Final Campaign” Dr Keith Mitchell
11.15am Break & Questions
11.30am Talk “Analysis of The Final Runs”
12.15pm We will then move onto The Ruskin Museum where Bluebird K7 can be seen up close.
1.00pm Lunch/Refreshments in The Reading Room of the Coniston Institute
1.45pm Group photo’ & Presentation of Certificates
1.50pm Heritage Walk with Keith:-
Ruskin Museum
Lane to Pier Cottage
Jetty & Slipway, Pier Cottage
Shoreline
Bluebird Cafe & Commemorative Plaque
David Watt Shop
Robinson Bungalow
Sun Inn
St Andrew’s Church & Speed Record Club Commemorative Panel
Coniston Memorial
Campbell’s Grave
Ruskin Museum
4-30pm – Close
Please bring suitable clothing and footwear as the weather can be extremely changeable.
Tickets are £50.00 per person, and the event is limited to 20 people.
Tickets available here: https://ruskinmuseum.com/product/campbell-heritage-walk-and-talk-sunday-3rd-january-2027/
