Aira Force in Ullswater has rebuilt a historic waterfall viewpoint with ‘dramatic’ new steel walkways.
The walkways, the result of a two-year National Trust project, replace a previous observation platform and footpath that was unstable and unfit for long-term usage.
Steel platforms have been cantilevered out over the river valley, providing breathtaking views of the river and waterfall.
The new paths are designed to allow tourists to see the falls at their finest all year.
Steel was chosen to improve safety and accessibility, particularly during the winter months when the famed falls may be at their most stunning, with the low profile of steel reducing visual effect.
The original Aira Force walkways were spindly timber structures, and stone bridges were constructed to simplify access in the early twentieth century, after the National Trust purchased the property.
While the new pathways follow the current routes, they provide greater room for lingering, admiring the view, and taking selfies, as well as exhilarating peeks downhill into the canyon.
The project arose as a long-term solution to an unstable portion of pathway on the east side of Aira Beck, as well as winter concerns with standing water, crumbling brickwork, and frost on the lower observation platform at the base of Aira Force falls.
Charlotte Fuke, Project Manager at the National Trust, stated, “Over the last few years, we have made several attempts to stabilise this section of footpath without much success.”
“We are very pleased with the outcome of this project; it is an innovative solution to a long-standing problem.”
“It recreates the drama that Victorian thrill-seekers sought out here many years ago and ensures year-round safe access for visitors into the future.”
According to the National Trust, Aira Force today attracts over 350,000 visitors each year, and with such high traffic in the historic built landscape, it requires a large continuous maintenance project to make the network of trails safe and accessible.
The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development contributed to the project’s funding. The remainder, around 45%, has been paid by monies bequeathed to the National Trust through legacy contributions and fundraisers.
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.
