Making the most of your Aira Force walk

Heading to Ullswater in the Lake District National Park? Then it’s well worth making time to complete the Aira Force walk and get closer to one of if not the most renowned waterfalls within the national park. Don’t miss this stunning sight!

Getting Started: The Aira Force Walk

If you are beginning your walk from Ullswater Lake, you can make use of the pay and display National Trust car park. There is a café nearby to fuel yourself for the walk ahead, but don’t worry as the path ahead is not too strenuous!

Simply follow the trail which will lead you on a beautiful route through woodland to the Aira Force waterfall. You will reach a bridge over the Aira Beck and from here you can choose which direction you want to take to approach the waterfall and surrounding area.

This is an easy and popular route and you will likely come across other walkers heading towards the waterfall as well. The walk should take around two hours. For a different approach that doesn’t start from the lake, you can make use of the free parking available on the A5091 travelling towards Dockray.

Preparation: Equipment and Planning

You should have a good pair of grippy shoes as the path to the waterfall may be slippery in places due to lots of rain. Wear suitable clothing such as a waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers. If you're heading further into the surrounding areas, pack food and water in a backpack and bring a map, compass, torch and fully charged mobile phone.

It's a good idea to plan your routes before you start and check the weather forecasts before you head out. The Lake District can be remote and dangerous if you don't know what you're doing.

Exploring Ullswater

Ullswater is the second largest lake in Cumbria’s Lake District National Park. Whether you travel by car or public transport to reach this beautiful location, there is a lot to look forward to once you arrive.

Take a cruise on the lake or hire your own boat. Always wanted to try sailing or windsurfing? Courses are available for you to get some hands-on experience. Fans of the author William Wordsworth may be keen to visit Glencoyne Bay where an abundance of daffodils are believed to have been the inspiration for his famous poem “Daffodils.” Horse riding and bike hire facilities are also available.

In addition to the Aira Force walk, there are many walking routes for exploring the incredibly stunning Ullswater region. For truly spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding landscape, walk up to Gowbarrow Fell. This is a great photo opportunity, so don’t forget your camera! Other scenic routes include the walk to Angle Tarn, Glenamara Park or Hayeswater Ghyll to name just a few.

From natural splendour to man-made magnificence, step inside Dalemain Historic House and Gardens or Hutton in the Forest and explore these historic homes and their beautiful grounds.

Have an animal adventure by visiting the Alpaca Centre or Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre or, if the fresh air is making you hungry, visit Pooley Bridge or Glenridding for a bite to eat or to browse the shops in these pretty villages.

For more laidback leisure, head to Rheged centre, which has a large cinema screen where you can watch outdoor-adventure themed films.

Accommodation

With several family-friendly campsites and caravan parks to choose from in the Ullswater area, you’ll have a good base from which to set off and explore the waterfall and the magnificent surroundings.

Attractions and Activities Galore for a Holiday to Remember

The Aira Force walk is a fantastic opportunity to experience the striking beauty of the Ullswater area. With the numerous activities and attractions available nearby, your holiday in the Lake District National Park is guaranteed to be full of fun!