Pooley Bridge to Glenridding is a classic lakeshore journey along Ullswater’s western shore, from open meadows to rocky balcony paths and mountain views

⭐ Summary of the Walk

A varied 10–11 mile walk from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding, following the west side of Ullswater via Watermillock, Aira Force, and Glencoyne. Expect gentle lakeside paths, woodland trails, short roadside links, and classic viewpoints across the water. This is the accessible, well‑waymarked west‑shore route — perfect for walkers who want a long, scenic journey without the steep balcony paths of the eastern side.

⭐ Notable Stops

A) Pooley Bridge Village

B) Park Foot & Waterside House Lakeshore

C) Bennethead & Watermillock

D) Gowbarrow Terrace (off‑road section)

E) Aira Force Waterfall

F) Aira High Force

G) Glencoyne Park Woodland

H) Glencoyne Bay

I) Glenridding Pier

J) Glenridding Village

Places to Stay Nearby

⭐ Route Breakdown

1) Pooley Bridge → Park Foot → Waterside House

Start in Pooley Bridge, cross the modern bridge, and follow the lakeside path south. This early section is gentle and open, with wide views across the northern end of Ullswater. Walk through fields and shoreline paths near Park Foot and Waterside House.

2) Waterside House → Bennethead → Watermillock

Continue on clear paths and quiet lanes towards Bennethead. The lake sits close on your left, with rolling farmland rising to the right. Pass through Watermillock, where short roadside sections link the off‑road paths.

3) Watermillock → Gowbarrow Terrace (off‑road)

Leave the roadside and climb gently onto the Gowbarrow terrace path — one of the best sections of the west shore. This elevated trail gives sweeping views across Ullswater towards Hallin Fell and the eastern fells.

Expect:

• woodland
• open terrace walking
• classic Ullswater viewpoints

4) Gowbarrow → Aira Force Waterfall

Continue south to reach the National Trust site at Aira Force. Here you can explore the famous waterfall, stone bridges, and deep woodland gorge. This is a perfect mid‑walk break.

5) Aira Force → Aira High Force → Glencoyne Park

Follow the signed path south through woodland and open fellside. You’ll pass the upper waterfall, Aira High Force, before the route drops towards Glencoyne Park.

This section mixes:

• forest trails
• open views
• short road crossings
• peaceful, sheltered walking

6) Glencoyne Park → Glencoyne Bay

Walk through the historic parkland of Glencoyne, with ancient trees and glimpses of the lake. Continue to Glencoyne Bay, a quiet, beautiful curve of shoreline with views straight down the length of Ullswater.

7) Glencoyne Bay → Glenridding Pier

Follow the lakeside path and short roadside links into Glenridding. The mountains close in here, with Birkhouse Moor and Helvellyn rising dramatically above the village.

Pass the Ullswater Steamers pier, a classic end‑of‑walk landmark.

8) Glenridding Pier → Glenridding Village

A final short stretch brings you into Glenridding, with cafés, pubs, and the perfect place to rest after a long lakeside journey.

Pick a place to Rest Up

⭐ End‑of‑Walk Summary

A long but rewarding west‑shore walk linking open lakeside paths, woodland trails, waterfalls, and classic Ullswater viewpoints. This route offers constant variety without the steep, rocky balcony paths of the eastern side — making it a brilliant full‑day adventure for walkers who want scenery, comfort, and a clear, continuous line from start to finish.

⭐ Distance & Duration

Distance: 10–11 miles (16–18 km)

Recommended Duration: 4–5 hours at a moderate pace Terrain: Lakeshore paths, woodland, short roadside sections Waymarked: Yes — sections follow the Ullswater Way

Start: Pooley Bridge Finish: Glenridding

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