Bluebird K7 cleared for historic return to Coniston Water in May 2026
Legendary hydroplane to run on the lake for the first time since Donald Campbell’s fatal 1967 crash
Bluebird K7, the iconic hydroplane piloted by the late speed record legend Donald Campbell, has officially been granted permission by the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) to run on Coniston Water in May 2026.
The craft will take to the lake from Monday 11 May to Sunday 17 May 2026 as part of Bluebird K7 – The Festival, marking its first return to Coniston Water since the tragic accident on January 4, 1967, when Campbell lost his life while attempting to break his own World Water Speed Record of 276.33 mph.
Gina Campbell, QSO, daughter of Donald Campbell, welcomed the news, saying her father would have been “delighted and pleased” with the decision. She expressed confidence that Bluebird K7 will “lift up her skirts and perform for the public,” adding her hopes that the event will be memorable for all involved.
Tracy Hodgson, Director of the Ruskin Museum—current home of Bluebird K7—also celebrated the approval, noting the museum’s gratitude for the widespread support behind the project:
“We are delighted that the bylaw exemption has been approved by the LDNPA, this will now allow us to run Bluebird K7 on Coniston Water in May 2026. We’d like to thank everyone for their support and we look forward to putting on an unforgettable event next year.”
The 2026 run coincides with the 70th anniversary of Donald Campbell’s first World Water Speed Record on Coniston Water, achieved on September 19, 1956, when he reached 225.63 mph.
Jeff Carroll, Chair of the Coniston Institute & Ruskin Museum, praised the team’s efforts in securing the exemption to Coniston Water’s speed limit.
He said:
“Now it’s full speed ahead to make ‘Bluebird K7 – The Festival’ a week to remember,” he said, highlighting the opportunity to honour the innovative work of Campbell, his team, the Norris brothers, and the volunteers who rebuilt the hydroplane.
Australian water-speed challenger Dave Warby, son of record holder Ken Warby MBE, will take the helm of Bluebird K7 during the event.
Warby described the lifted speed restriction as a win for both the Ruskin Museum and the Coniston community, adding that he looks forward to preparing the vessel for its historic return.