Walking the Ullswater Way

First opened in 2016, the full circuit takes you around the entirety of the beautiful Ullswater lake which is one of the most scenic in the Lake District. It is a 20 mile circular route that you can walk in either direction and from any starting point.

I first walked the Ullswater Way in the summer of 2016 and started in Glenridding.

Glenridding to Howtown

Distance 6.5 miles

This section is an undulating footpath that has some up and down stretches through ancient woodlands and there are also some rocky sections near the water’s edge. You get fantastic views down Ullswater towards Pooley Bridge.

Howtown to Pooley Bridge

Distance 5 miles

This section is undulating underfoot through farmland and open fell. The path takes you through a working sheep farm and a campsite on the water’s edge. Once in Pooley Bridge, you can pop into a local cafe for a coffee and cake stop.

Pooley Bridge to Aira Force

Distance 6.5 miles

This is the longest section of the Ullswater Way that is undulating, walking through both woodland and fields. Once you get to Aira Force, you can explore the magnificent 65 foot waterfall which is protected by the National Trust and you can also extend the walk by going up Gowbarrow fell, ticking off a Wainwright too. 

Aira Force to Glenridding

Distance 3 miles

If you started at Glenridding, then this section is the shortest but in my opinion the hardest as the last 3 miles seemed to last forever. However, you get to walk through Glencoyne Wood which inspired Wordsworth to write his most famous poem. The final stretch allows you to meander near the lakeshore where I definitely recommend a wild swim.

At Cardtoons, we have a wide selection of souvenirs from Ullswater that can be found here.