The Ullswater Way

The Ullswater Way is a stunning 20 mile (32km) walking route around Ullswater.  The route can be walked in either direction and from any starting point. Why not walk the route in shorter sections, using an open top bus or 'Steamer' to start your journey!

The official map and guide can be downloaded from the Ullswater.org website.  Pick up a leaflet from one of our Tourist Information Centres.

The Dalemain Loop

The Dalemain Loop is a picturesque 5 mile (8km) circular walk linking to the Ullswater Way at Pooley Bridge. The Loop can be started from Pooley Bridge or Dalemain Mansion. 

The Loop allows visitors to travel on foot along the banks of the River Eamont, through historic pasture lands and the village of Dacre.  This charming village, boasts a castle, an ancient church with mysterious stone 'bears', and the Horse and Farrier Inn.

The Loop is well signposted.  An illustrated account of the walk can be found in the Official Guide to the Ullswater Way.  The guide is available from businesses around the Ullswater Way.  £1 for every copy sold donated to the National Park to help maintain the route.  It is also on sale at Penrith Tourist Information Centre.

The Lowther Castle Loop

The Lowther Castle Loop is a lovely addition to the Ullswater Way.  From Lowther Castle, the circular 7.5 mile (12km) route follows the banks of the Lowther river.  It passes through the hamlet of Helton and then up to Askham Fell with its panoramic views.  It then returns through the charming village of Askham.

More information on the Dalemain Loop and Lowther Castle Loop is available on the Ullswater.org website.

Pooley Bridge to Aira Force

From Pooley Bridge, the Ullswater Way takes you on paths through woodland and fields to Maiden Castle. Once a defended settlement, it is now hidden by grass.  From this raised vantage point you have spectacular views down the Ullswater Valley.  There are also views to the Pennines to the east and Blencathra to the north.  6.5 miles (10.7km).  For more information visit the Ullswater.org website.

Aira Force to Glenridding

This section includes the magnificent waterfalls at Aira. Allow time to explore the paths through the old woodlands and landscaped glades.  A spectacular stone arch bridge spans the 65 foot waterfall.  (3 miles / 4.6km).  For more information visit the Ullswater.org website.

Glenridding to Howtown

The Ullswater Way now weaves its way with the road, but on good paths and clear crossings. The route passes King George V playing fields, named “the prettiest field in England” by William Wordsworth.  The route then crosses the open valley to Side Farm and heads back northwards along and above the shores of Ullswater.  (6.5 miles / 10.5km).  For more information visit the Ullswater.org website.
 

Howtown to Pooley Bridge

Just beyond Howtown, the Way takes you up onto the moorland edge with extensive views over Ullswater (5 miles / 8km).  For more information visit the Ullswater.org website.
 

The Eamont Way - Penrith to Pooley Bridge

The Eamont Way is a signed walking trail of 5.5 miles (8.8km) connecting Penrith to Pooley Bridge and another option for those walking the Ullswater Way.
 

The Wordsworth Way

The Wordsworth Way is 14 mile (22.5km) long route.  The route traces some of the favourite walking routes of William and his sister Dorothy. Linking Glenridding and Ambleside, it can be walked in a day or section by section.