How to spend a weekend in Ullswater & Troutbeck

Written by: Alex

Date posted: 09 March 2026

Location: Ullswater and Troutbeck

The Ullswater valley and its surrounds make for a beautiful weekend break, with plenty to see and do. Join us as we look at how to spend two days in this scenic part of the Lake District, Cumbria.

Discover the charming Lakeland villages of Patterdale and Glenridding, set among the Eastern Fells of the Lake District and on the southern shores of beautiful Ullswater. Visit for breathtaking mountain scenery, outdoor adventures and rewarding walks, alongside a great selection of independent shops, cosy cafés, traditional pubs and welcoming places to stay.

Start exploring by heading to Aira Force, one of the area’s most famous natural attractions. Originally created as an 18th century pleasure ground and later inspiring William Wordsworth’s poem Somnambulist, the site is now cared for by the National Trust. Follow a network of woodland paths that lead to the dramatic Aira Force Waterfall, where water plunges around 20 metres into the pool below. If you continue up to Gowbarrow Fell, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across Ullswater. Afterwards, pause at the Aira Force tea room for homemade cakes, light bites and hot drinks.

Top tip: in spring, don’t miss the sight of daffodils dancing in the wind on Glencoyne Bay - they inspired Wordsworth to write I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.

Accessible walking is available at nearby Brothers Water, where a Miles Without Stiles route follows the quiet, wooded shoreline of this peaceful lake in the Hartsop Valley, just south of Patterdale and Glenridding. The gently undulating linear path offers wonderful views of the surrounding fells, including Dove Crag, known for one of the steepest cliff faces in the Lake District.

For a relaxing way to experience the lake, hop aboard a cruise with Ullswater ‘Steamers’ and enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a fantastic family-friendly activity, and you can combine a cruise with a lakeside walk between Glenridding and Howtown. This route forms part of the 20 mile Ullswater Way, a long-distance trail that circles the entire lake.

At the north of Ullswater, and also an Ullswater ‘Steamers’ pier, spend some time exploring the pretty village of Pooley Bridge. Visit Chestnut House to shop local food and drink - including over 400 gins! Grab a bite to eat at places like The Pooley Bridge Inn, the Crown Inn, or 1863 Restaurant with Rooms.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, local activity specialists Adventure Vertical offer ghyll scrambling, climbing and abseiling experiences. Meanwhile, expert guides at Hiking Highs run Nordic walking sessions, navigation courses and guided mountain walks across the surrounding fells. There are even moonlit swims and watersports at Another Place, The Lake.

After a day outdoors, enjoy hearty pub food or stay overnight at The Ullswater Inn in Glenridding. You’ll also find welcoming accommodation at Glenridding Manor House Hotel, while The Patterdale Estate offers self-catering chalets and lodges ideal for longer breaks.

A little further south, Troutbeck is another picturesque Lakeland village surrounded by spectacular countryside. Visit the historic Townend, a beautifully preserved 400 year old farmhouse now cared for by the National Trust, or tackle nearby Wansfell, one of Alfred Wainwright’s much loved fell walks. In the village itself, the cosy and dog friendly Queens Head serves seasonal pub food and offers stylishly designed rooms. Other nearby accommodation options include Troutbeck Camping Pods, Broadoaks Country House Hotel and Limefitt Holiday Park.

Top tip: in the spring/summer months, a seasonal bus service - The Ullswater Hopper - transports visitors to a variety of locations around Ullswater, including accommodation as well as attractions like Dalemain and Lowther Castle. It’s a great way to get around the valley car free.

Be Adventure Smart in the great outdoors and make sure you have the right gear, skills and experience for your planned day out. Find out more: www.adventuresmart.uk

Getting there: A short section of the A592 at High Kingate is currently closed, but Glenridding and Patterdale remain fully accessible from the north - and you can still access Kirkstone Pass from the northern end. If you’re approaching Ullswater from the south, official diversion routes are signposted. Troutbeck village can still be accessed from the south. Check ahead for updates and info.