The best walks and hikes around Ullswater
4.6
(6622)
66,596
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking around Ullswater offers diverse landscapes, from tranquil lakeside paths to challenging mountain ascents. The region is centered around Ullswater, the second-largest lake in the Lake District, framed by dramatic fells to the south and rolling hills to the north. Hikers can explore ancient woodlands, discover waterfalls like Aira Force, and climb prominent fells such as Gowbarrow Fell, which provide panoramic views. The varied terrain includes flat grassy fields, rocky paths, and lush woodlands, catering to a range of hiking…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
(81)
739
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
26.3km
08:04
780m
780m
This difficult 16.4-mile hike from Glenridding explores Ullswater, High Raise, and Angle Tarn, offering diverse terrain and panoramic views.
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4.9
(101)
839
hikers
7.58km
02:29
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(46)
325
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(27)
169
hikers
4.18km
01:35
260m
270m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is the Wainwright Wether Hill, which sits at 671 metres high. It is rather barren apart from the cute small stone cairn, but it does have nice 360-degree views of the surrounding fells. The true summit of Wether Hill, which sits at 674 metres high, is about 400-500 metres away. That Wether Hill is a nuttall and has an unmarked top.
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Loadpot Hill, at 671 metres, and its trig point occupy an expansive, flat-topped fell between Arthur's Pike and Wether Hill. It has commanding but distant 360-degree views of the surrounding fells from its barren, flat top that you know must be a nightmare during high winds in winter. The trig point is not the actual summit; the summit is nearby but unmarked.
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High Raise (Far Eastern Fells, not the Central Fells High Rise) near Rampsgill Head is a high, grassy dome of a summit and is 880 metres high. A fine Wainwright, it has great views towards two other fine Wainwrights, namely The Knott and Kidsty Pike. The walk up from Rampsgill Head is super nice and gentle.
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Rampsgill Head summit, at 792 metres, is an unassuming cairned Wainwright summit sitting in between two other Wainwrights, namely High Raise and The Knott. It is a pleasant, airy plateau with excellent, dramatic, steep drops into the Ramps Gill valley.
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The Knot is yet another fine Wainwright that is in this area of the eastern fells. It sits in between Rest Dodd and Rampsgill Head, both Wainwrights too. This unassuming summit has a small cairn and is 739 metres (2,425 ft) high, but from here you have grand views down Rampsgill Valley to the north and excellent views of nearby Nab and Rest Dodd, as well as Hayeswater Reservoir.
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Take the ferry to Howtown or Pooley Bridge. Either can be taken to do a walk back to Glenridding either taking a high or low route
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Amazing views up and down Ullswater and the larger mountains to the west. Climb this smaller fell before taking in Sheffield Pike
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great water fall but quite rocky and full of steps so not accesible for all
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More Information
Exploring the lake
For those entering the Lake District from the north, Ullswater can feel like a gateway to a magical kingdom. The small, rolling hills of its northern end provide a taste of things to come. Then, as you head south, the mountains of the Eastern Fells make themselves known. Distant ridgelines, often snow-covered in winter, tower over the picturesque lake below. Regardless of the time of year, the area is well-loved for its beautiful scenery.
Many hikes in the Ullswater region begin in either Glenridding or Patterdale on the southern tip of the lake. Both are excellent bases for accommodation and have a range of gear shops, cafes and pubs for post-hike refreshments.
Amongst the best Ullswater hiking trails are those that begin here and follow the shoreline, exploring the very ground that inspired Wordsworth. Another enticing option is taking the steamer boat to the remote village Howtown and exploring the lesser-trodden routes on offer there. On the far northern tip is Pooley Bridge, a charming village boasting pleasant Ullswater walks on less rugged terrain.
Helvellyn and Fairfield Ranges
Glenridding and Patterdale also offer spectacular days out amongst the higher fells. The Helvellyn and Fairfield ranges tower above the region, offering monumental vistas of the rest of the Lake District. The approach via their craggy east-facing aspects – carved out by the monumental forces of ancient glaciers – provides some of the most stunning scenery in England. For the adventurous, you can tackle Helvellyn’s edges – sublime, narrow ridge walks that rank amongst the best hikes in the Lake District. They are classic adventures but should only be attempted in favourable weather.
Peak-bagging heaven
There’s more to this region than the higher fells. Ullswater is surrounded by superb hills, cascading waterfalls and hidden treasures. Long, undulating, grassy ridgelines lead to high majestic tarns, perfect for a dip on a summer’s day. The elevation gained provides sumptuous views back across Ullswater to the Helvellyn family, which scowl back across the void. Chances are, the only company you will have as you happily stride from summit to summit, are the herdwick sheep that are just as synonymous with the Lakes as the mountains themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ullswater?
Ullswater offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 30 routes available on komoot. These range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring options for all skill levels.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Ullswater?
The best seasons for hiking in Ullswater are generally spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) due to milder weather. However, the area is beautiful year-round, with wildflowers in spring, clear skies in summer, golden foliage in autumn, and a crisp, peaceful atmosphere with snow-capped mountains in winter.
Are there any hikes around Ullswater that feature waterfalls?
Yes, a prominent natural feature is Aira Force, a spectacular 65-foot cascade. You can explore this area on the Aira Force – Gowbarrow Fell summit loop from Ullswater, which leads through ancient woodland and past the waterfall.
Can I find circular hiking routes around Ullswater?
Yes, Ullswater is well-known for its circular routes. The popular 20-mile (32.5 km) Ullswater Way encompasses the entire lake and can be done in sections, often utilizing the Ullswater 'Steamers'. Shorter loops are also available, such as the View of Ullswater and the pier – Pooley Bridge (2020) loop from Pooley Bridge.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Ullswater?
Absolutely. Ullswater has 8 easy routes suitable for families. Many trails offer gentle lakeside strolls and well-maintained paths, such as those around Aira Force, which are perfect for a leisurely walk with children. The villages of Glenridding and Pooley Bridge also serve as excellent starting points for shorter, accessible walks.
What are some challenging hikes for experienced walkers in Ullswater?
For experienced hikers, the Helvellyn range offers some of England's most rewarding ascents, including dramatic edges like Striding Edge and Swirral Edge. A challenging route that explores the fells is the Howtown, High Raise & Angle Tarn loop from Glenridding, which features significant elevation gain.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Ullswater?
The hiking routes in Ullswater are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,600 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lakeside paths to prominent mountain fells, and the stunning panoramic views.
Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
Yes, Ullswater offers many scenic points. You can find stunning views from Silver Point Viewpoint or explore the tranquil Hallinhag Wood. The Ullswater Lakeside Trail (Sandwick to Patterdale) also provides continuous beautiful vistas.
Can I combine hiking with a boat trip on Ullswater?
Yes, the Ullswater 'Steamers' offer a fantastic way to combine hiking with a scenic boat trip. You can walk sections of the Ullswater Way and use the steamers to return to your starting point or connect different villages like Pooley Bridge, Glenridding, and Howtown. The Ullswater Steamer, Howtown & the eastern shore loop from Glenridding is a great example of this.
Are there any easy hikes with great views of Ullswater?
For an easy hike with rewarding views, consider the View over Ullswater – Glenridding Dodd summit loop from Glenridding. This shorter route offers excellent panoramic vistas of the lake without requiring a strenuous climb. Hallin Fell also provides panoramic views over both sides of Ullswater for a relatively modest ascent.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Ullswater?
Most trails in the Ullswater area are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature conservation areas. Always follow the Countryside Code and ensure your dog is under control.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Ullswater's hiking trails?
Ullswater's terrain is incredibly diverse. You can expect a mix of flat grassy fields, undulating rocky paths, lush woodlands, and pleasant lakeside meadows. This variety ensures that routes transition between quiet roads, shoreline paths, and woodland trails, offering a constantly shifting backdrop.
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