Ullswater Circuit
Statistics
- Distance: 35km (22mi)
- Ascent: 875m (2,871ft)
- Effort: 3/5
- Technical: 4/5
- Scenery: 4/5
- Off-road: 39%
Summary
This route makes for a great morning or afternoon ride, or if you fancy something technical without too much effort because it involves hardly any climbing and yet it still manages to take in what is probably the best technical bridleway in the country – the Ullswater lakeside path from Howtown to Glenridding.
Not only is the technical riding superb, it also affords breathtaking views across Ullswater.
The only downside of this ride is the long road section it starts with. The first 11 miles are on-road but this just serves as access to the ride itself, and it’s over in no time anyway and the scenery is fantastic.
The Route
Download the GPX file of this route - compatible with most GPS units / memory map etc.
The recommended start is at Patterdale in the all-day car park opposite the Patterdale Hotel’s beer garden. You could start from Pooley Bridge but this would put the road section at the end of the ride, and personally I’d rather get the road out of the way at the beginning.
Head north east out of Patterdale on the A592, heading towards Pooley Bridge. This 11 mile road section gets you to the real start of the ride and itself can be draining to the not so fit. Just follow the road all the way to Pooley Bridge, you can break it up by nipping on and off the road by the lakeside, but expect to end up carrying it up some steps at the last lay-by.
From Pooley Bridge continue following the road, first over a mini-roundabout and then straight over the crossroads heading uphill and eventually turning into a bridleway just after Roehead.
Follow the bridleway uphill for another kilometre or so until you reach a crossroads marked by a Cairn, turn right here and follow the track up to the ancient stone circle known as ‘The Cockpit’. The track bears right here, keep on following the obvious track over and down Lock Bank, once again heading towards the lake.
At the bottom of the descent the track follows a dry stone wall on the right with views across Ullswater beyond, and the mountain on your left. This section is fairly flat and you can make good progress if you push it, or you can take it easy whilst you still have chance and enjoy the views.
You will come out at Howtown. Cross the footbridge or ford the stream and head up the grassy bank at the opposite side and when you see the small church down to your right, follow the track down to it and the road. Take a left onto the road and enjoy the fast descent towards Sandwick, being sure to keep Hallin Fell on your right and Sleet Fell on your right and keep heading for the lake.
Just before you reach Sandwick and the end of the road, take the bridleway on the left. This path will lead you on to the most exciting part of the ride, the lakeside bridleway. Keep to the lower level, hugging the lake side. This rocky bridleway is probably one of the best pieces of technical bridleway in the country so lower your saddle and enjoy the ride!
After the long and fun lakeside section, take a turn down the unnamed road at Rooking, take a right onto the main road and you will arrive back at the car park.
If it’s sunny enjoy a pint in the Patterdale Hotel beer garden, and if it’s not then try the steak and chips at the White Lion.
Alternatives
Start Point
Pooley Bridge would be an alternative start point if you’re looking for something a little different. This would put the long road section at the end of the ride rather than the beginning. Personally I’d rather get the boring bit out of the way first. Both start points have a good selection of pubs for refreshments and post-ride food.
Route
Some people prefer the climb and descent of Boredale Hause to the lakeside Bridleway. It takes more effort and is less scenic, but it is easily as technical and if it’s a weekend you will stand a chance against the hoards of walkers that litter the lakeside route.
