Walking Holidays and Stays in Ullswater

Glacial waters, mountain light, and quiet lakeside paths

Where reflections dance on the surface — and trails rise gently into the fells.

Ullswater is one of the Lake District’s most serene and scenic valleys, offering a quieter alternative to the central Lakes. Shaped by glacial action and fringed with ancient woodland and open fells, the lake stretches for just under 9 miles (14.5 km) through a long ribbon of striking mountain landscape. Its tranquil setting and mix of low-level shoreline trails and higher-level fell walks make it ideal for varied, self-guided walking.

The villages of Glenridding, Pooley Bridge, and Howtown make excellent walking bases, while the historic Ullswater ‘Steamers’ ferry passengers between trailheads — allowing for linear and circular routes along the Ullswater Way, a popular 20-mile circuit around the lake. Routes range from short woodland strolls to ambitious fell ascents like Place Fell, Gowbarrow, and Hallin Fell.

This is a place to slow down, stay close to the water, and let the landscape do the talking.

Why Walk Here

• Walk the full Ullswater Way or explore it in scenic sections
• Use the historic steamer boats to create flexible point-to-point walks
• Climb Place Fell, Gowbarrow Fell, or Hallin Fell for iconic lake views
• Stay in peaceful lakeside villages like Glenridding or Pooley Bridge
• Ideal for varied walking: lakeshore paths, fell climbs, and woodland trails