ULLSWATER · EXPERIENCES · WALKING
Discover Ullswater, your way
Looking for the best things to do around Ullswater? This beautiful eastern Lake District valley combines lake cruises, woodland waterfalls, low-level walking, villages and a worthwhile indoor stop nearby. These five ideas are practical ways to plan a visit rather than a list of vague sightseeing promises.
Reviewed 11 November 2026: Boat services, weather, visitor facilities and booking options can change. Most importantly, Ullswater ‘Steamers’ are not currently serving Aira Force Pier. Check the operator’s latest service updates before combining cruises and walks.
1. Take an Ullswater ‘Steamers’ cruise
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, families and anyone who wants fell views without a long walk.
Ullswater ‘Steamers’ operates heritage passenger boats, including the historic Lady of the Lake and Raven, alongside other vessels. Choose a return sailing or a one-way trip linked with a suitable walk. Current operating piers include Pooley Bridge, Glenridding and Howtown. Check which sailings and piers are served on your intended date; boat services can change with weather and season.
Important 2026 service note: The operator says Aira Force Pier sailings were suspended from 18 July 2026 until further notice, with a planned return in 2027. Do not buy a trip expecting to disembark at Aira Force. Its official service updates and timetable and fares are the definitive sources.
Read our Ullswater ‘Steamers’ guide or explore our bookable return-cruise experience from Glenridding. Check that any third-party ticket is valid for the specific sailing and departure pier.
2. Visit Aira Force waterfall and woodland
Best for: Woodland walks, waterfalls, photography and an introduction to native red squirrel habitat.
The National Trust manages Aira Force, a waterfall in woodland on the western side of Ullswater. Visitors can follow marked paths to views of the cascading water and stone bridges. Routes vary in length and gradient, with wet steps and exposed drops in places. Keep children close, stay behind barriers and wear footwear with grip.
The mixed woodland is also associated with native red-squirrel conservation, although seeing a squirrel is never guaranteed. Find access advice in our Aira Force visitor guide, use the Aira Force circular walking route, and read our red squirrel watching guide. Travel by road or bus rather than assuming there is a working boat stop at Aira Force.
3. Walk a stage of the 20-mile Ullswater Way
Best for: Walkers who want views, traditional villages and the flexibility to split a longer trail into stages.
The Ullswater Way is approximately 32 km (20 miles) around the lake. The full route is a substantial day out rather than an easy stroll; individual stages vary in distance, ascent and terrain. The Lake District National Park’s official route guidance explains options, including a short roadside stretch by Stybarrow Crag.
Our four mapped stage guides let you plan a realistic walk with route information and GPX tracks:
- Pooley Bridge to Aira Force — varied paths with Gowbarrow-side options.
- Aira Force to Glenridding — a shorter lake-side stretch with Glencoyne scenery.
- Glenridding to Howtown — a more remote eastern shore walk.
- Howtown to Pooley Bridge — shore and hillside options depending on route choice.
Check bus and boat connections before setting off, particularly for a linear walk. Howtown has limited road access and transport services change seasonally. If you want a shorter, gentler option, the National Park describes the Pooley Bridge to Gale Bay Miles without Stiles route, but always check actual surfaces and accessibility.
For the whole loop, see our Ullswater Way planning guide.
4. Explore Glenridding, Pooley Bridge and Glencoyne Bay
Best for: A relaxed village visit, cafés, scenic lakeshores and Wordsworth’s landscape.
Glenridding is a good base at the southern end of Ullswater, with shops, places to eat, access to the pier and routes towards Patterdale. It is also a starting point for demanding mountain walks such as Helvellyn, which should not be confused with easy village sightseeing. At the northern end, Pooley Bridge has cafés, independent businesses and lakeside views; for a local stop explore Granny Dowbekins.
In spring, the shoreline around Glencoyne Bay is associated with the daffodils that inspired William Wordsworth. The flowers are seasonal, normally most relevant in March and April, not a year-round attraction. Observe from established paths and do not pick or trample them. The Aira Force to Glenridding stage explores this part of the valley.
5. Visit the Rheged Centre near Penrith on a wet day
Best for: Rainy-day alternatives, a cinema visit, exhibitions, shopping and food on the way into the Ullswater Valley.
Rheged is near Penrith, not on Ullswater’s lakeshore. It’s a useful extra stop when travelling into or out of the valley, especially in poor weather. Its programme includes cinema screenings, exhibitions, family events, food and independent shopping, but individual activities and opening hours change.
Check the official Rheged programme rather than expecting a permanent hands-on discovery exhibition or discounted multi-activity package. Read our Rheged Centre guide, or see the Forty Fells photography exhibition where relevant to your dates.
How to plan a day around Ullswater
For a relaxed first visit, choose one main activity (a cruise, waterfall walk or Ullswater Way section) and add a village or café stop if time allows. Families with young children may prefer a short walk or return cruise over a long linear route. More experienced walkers can choose a full stage with confirmed transport at both ends.
Book activities only after checking their departure or meeting points, age and mobility restrictions, cancellation terms and current weather. See our Ullswater lake guide, public transport guide, travel and weather alerts and Places to Stay directory.
Frequently asked questions
Can you take a steamer to Aira Force in November 2026?
No. Aira Force Pier sailings are suspended; check the operator for any changes and use road or bus connections instead.
Can you walk around Ullswater in a day?
The full Ullswater Way is approximately 20 miles and is a substantial walk with varied surfaces, not an easy lakeside promenade. Most visitors will find a shorter stage more practical.
What is best for a rainy day near Ullswater?
Rheged near Penrith has indoor activities, a cinema and food options, subject to the day’s programme. Poor weather may also affect cruise services.
Where can I see Wordsworth’s daffodils?
Glencoyne Bay is associated with the springtime daffodils. Expect them seasonally rather than throughout the year and stay on established paths.
Is Helvellyn suitable for a casual outing from Glenridding?
No. Helvellyn is a high mountain requiring weather-appropriate equipment, navigation and experience. The village and lower lakeside paths are separate, easier options.
More inspiration: Browse our family-friendly activities guide and guided tours guide for organised experiences.
A former British Military Officer, Eddie went on to study History and then Journalism at Sheffield Hallam University. A keen outdoorsman, he has co-written several books on Outdoor Survival and Wild Camping. Now living in Penrith, Ed is a keen fellrunner.
