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Discover more at Aira Force and Ullswater
Find out how to get to Aira Force and Ullswater, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Go an outdoor adventure at Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park this summer. Exploring woodland pathways, watching the waterfalls, spotting red squirrels or having a picnic there’s plenty of space for wild play. Find out what's on offer and all the details you need to plan your visit.
We suggest allowing roughly an hour to complete the circular Waterfall Trail. The paths can be a bit steep in places, with uneven sections and rugged steps. The stone bridge and metal walkways around the edge of the gorge offer thrilling views of the Aira Beck dashing through the rocks below. All times are approximate, with smaller legs, stops for playing, looking at interesting things or snack breaks, routes may take longer.
There are different trails to choose from, take a look at the trail map or speak to member of our team when you arrive.
A short wander to the Glade and Arboretum along a gravel path is pushchair friendly (approx. 15mins), as is the path to Aira Green, a grassy field across the road leading to Ullswater lakeshore and the jetty for Ullswater ‘Steamers’. Aira Force to Glencoyne Bay footpath goes through pasture in Glencoyne Park and is mostly rough gravel, accessible for some pushchairs.
The woodland around Aira Force is home to native red squirrels. They tend to be active early in the day and can be quite shy. Keep an eye out for movement on the ground if they are foraging for food or up high in the trees as they scamper along branches.
From splashing in streams and muddy puddles to clambering on rocks or tree trunks there’s plenty of wild play to enjoy. Try balancing and hopping between logs in the little natural play area just beyond the car park and near to the tea-room.
Stop off at the La’al Adventure Box to borrow a lawn game or even some wellies for your little ones (available during school holidays February-October). Pick up a nature trail sheet at the Welcome Building.
Enjoy eating your food outdoors on the benches or bring a blanket to spread on a grassy area with views over Ullswater. If you fancy a hot drink or extra cake pop into the tea-room.
Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park are great places to start ticking of some of your '50 things' list. Here's a few ideas to get you started:
With access to the lake at Aira Green and Glencoyne Bay, shady woodland paths to escape the heat and many walking routes Aira Force is a popular place in the summer months. If visiting with family it's best to arrive early or later in the day as car parks usually fill up by 11am with cars starting to leave from 3pm onwards. Arriving by boat at Aira Force jetty using the heritage Ullswater 'Steamers' service or using the regular bus service can make the journey part of the adventure.
Ullswater lake is generally calm and still at this time of year, making it the best time to launch a canoe, a kayak or go paddle boarding. The best place to park and launch your vessel is from Glencoyne Bay car park as the main car park can get very busy. Make sure you have the right equipment and read these handy water safety tips before setting off.
Find out how to get to Aira Force and Ullswater, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Aira Force is a three pawprint rated place, and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome here. There are water bowls around the car park and tea-room area. Please read the Canine Code to make sure everyone has an enjoyable day.
Pay a visit to the Aira Force tea-room for hot and cold drinks, home bakes, sandwiches, pasties and ice creams. You can eat in, take away or even bring a picnic.
Explore Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park on a circular walk passing through woodland and open glades all accompanied with the roaring sounds from the waterfall in the gorge. Enjoy expansive views over Ullswater from the summit of Gowbarrow.