Ullswater Way
A 20-mile long-distance path in the Lake District National Park. The route makes its way around Ullswater, sometimes by the shoreline and occasionally climbing into the hills surrounding the lake. The villages of Pooley Bridge, Patterdale, and Glenridding are all visited during the walk. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: NY 470 244
Distance: 20 miles (32 km)
Time: 7–10 hours
Duration: 1–2 days
Ordnance Survey Explorer Map (1:25,000):
OL5 The English Lakes – North Eastern Area
Summary
The Ullswater Way is a waymarked walking route using existing Public Rights of Way and quiet roads which circumnavigates Ullswater, aimed at encouraging walkers to enjoy the valley, appreciate the spectacular scenery, and support local businesses. From the start in Pooley Bridge and heading in a clockwise direction, the Ullswater Way begins by following the south shore past Hodgson Hill, Waterside House, and the Yacht Club Jetty before leaving the shoreline to reach Seat Farm.
The route then runs parallel to Ullswater past Sharow Cottages and Bonscale before heading back to the waterside at Howtown Wyke. A low path clinging to the shoreline is then kept while skirting around Hallin Fell, leading through Hallinhag Wood to Sandwick. The path continues close to the south shore past Low Birk Fell, Birk Fell, and around Silver Crag before heading to the southern end of Ullswater at Patterdale.
The return north is made initially by roadside paths to Glenridding and continuing northwards in the same vein to Mossdale Bay, Glencoyne Bridge, and alongside the A592 until Aira Force is reached. The path leaves the roadside to visit the famous waterfall and then skirts the south side slopes of Gowbarrow Fell to reach Swinburn’s Park woodland, crossing low pasture to Bonnerhead. The route continues to Waterfoot Hotel Farm, back to the roadside, skirting Dunmallard Hill and returning to Pooley Bridge.