Ullswater

Welcome to Ullswater, often hailed as the most beautiful lake in all of England. Stretching for approximately nine miles, this serpentine body of water winds through the northern fells, its shape a testament to the powerful…

Our exploration begins at Pooley Bridge, the charming village situated at the northern tip of Ullswater. Historically known as 'Pulley,' this was once a vital fishing village, where the River Eamont flows out of the lake. …

As we snake our way uphill from Pooley Bridge, we reach the site of Maiden Castle. While its name might suggest a formidable fortress, archaeological evidence indicates that this was likely an Iron Age farmstead dating back to…

One of the most celebrated highlights of the Ullswater Way is Aira Force, a spectacular waterfall where the Aira Beck drops 65 feet over a sheer rocky ledge into a deep, wooded basin. This is a classic 'sublime' landscape, where…

In the nearby Galbarrow Park, we encounter a very special feature: an ancient polarded Witch Elm. This tree is often described as the 'crown jewel' of the Lake District's pasture woodlands. …

As we reach the southern end of the lake, we arrive at Glenridding, a bustling village that serves as the hub for the iconic Ullswater Steamers. These historic vessels have been plying the lake since 1859, providing a unique…

The return leg of the Ullswater Way takes us along the eastern shore, a route that 'hugs' the water's edge. This side of the lake is noticeably more technical than the western side, with paths that lead over loose stones and…

As we complete our 20-mile circuit of Ullswater, we are left with an overwhelming sense of the lake's varied beauty and history. We have traveled from the ancient farmsteads of Pooley Bridge to the industrial heritage of…