High fells, island-dotted waters, and the heart of the Lake District’s east
Ullswater is a place where mountain ridges fall steeply into shimmering water, creating one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Lake District. Stretching for nearly eight miles, the lake is framed by villages like Glenridding, Pooley Bridge, and Howtown, each offering easy access to both high fell hikes and gentle shoreline rambles.
The Ullswater Way, a 20-mile circuit around the lake, is a perfect multi-day walking holiday or a series of shorter day walks linked by the Ullswater ‘Steamers’ boats. From Glenridding, you can tackle the climb to Helvellyn via Striding Edge, one of England’s most famous ridge routes. From Howtown, quieter paths lead into Martindale’s hidden valleys, while Pooley Bridge offers gentle riverside and low-level walks toward Askham and the Eden Valley.
With its combination of dramatic scenery, varied trails, and lake-to-mountain adventures, Ullswater is a destination for walkers who want both challenge and beauty in one trip.
Why Walk Here
- The Ullswater Way – a full circuit linking villages, shore paths, and fellside tracks.
- Access to iconic summits such as Helvellyn and St Sunday Crag.
- Choice of gentle shoreline strolls or big mountain days.
- Historic villages with welcoming pubs and cafés.
- Water transport via Ullswater ‘Steamers’ to connect walks without retracing steps.
Nearby Trails
- Ullswater Way – 20-mile loop around the lake with multiple access points.
- Helvellyn via Striding Edge – Challenging ridge route with outstanding views.
- Aira Force & Gowbarrow Fell – Waterfall walk with an optional fell extension.
- Martindale Valleys Circuit – Quiet, scenic loop through remote eastern valleys.
- Pooley Bridge to Howtown – Gentle lakeside section of the Ullswater Way.
Outdoor Adventures and Activities
- Sailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking on Ullswater (with hire available locally).
- Scenic boat trips on the Ullswater ‘Steamers’.
- Fell running routes including the full Ullswater Way.
- Photography of ridges, islands, and reflections at sunrise or sunset.
