Aira Force is a waterfall situated near the north shore of Ullswater, where William Wordsworth wrote the famous words, "I wandered lonely as a cloud". It is situated in a beautiful Victorian landscaped park managed by the National Trust.
Admission is free and some of the walks are wheel-chair friendly. Arguably the Lake District’s most famous waterfall, the tiny bridge that spans it is not for the faint hearted!
Aira Force offers a choice of circular walking routes to suit different abilities:
Lower Woodland Walk – Approx. 1 mile (30–45 minutes). Gentle gradients and accessible paths.
Full Circular Route – Approx. 2 miles (1–1.5 hours). Includes steeper woodland trails and the iconic stone bridge.
Gowbarrow Fell Extension – 4–5 miles (2–3 hours). A more challenging hike with panoramic views over Ullswater.
Paths can be uneven or slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
By Car:
Aira Force car park is located off the A592 between Penrith and Glenridding. Pay-and-display parking applies (free for National Trust members).
By Bus:
Regular services run along the A592 route, stopping near the entrance.
By Ullswater Steamer:
During the visitor season, you can arrive via boat from other Ullswater piers, making for one of the most scenic approaches in the Lake District.
