We are the Forth Valley Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Wendy C.
This lovely, circular walk follows sections of the Ullswater Way. It starts and finishes 6 miles from Penrith, in the attractive village of Pooley Bridge. This alternative "B" route will include a hike uphill to the summit of Arthur’s Pike (532m) for those who are wishing a leg stretch and slightly longer wander.
Everyone will start together from the same point taking our time ascending out of the village uphill, with plenty chances to pause for a breather and take in the ever-expanding views. After approximately an hour or so, we will enjoy some time on the open moorland, with a coffee stop at a stone circle.
The group will then separate, where we will continue up Barton Fell to the summit, stopping at a very nice view point to take photos of the amazing views over Ullswater and surrounding hills. We will then descend back down, picking up the same route of our lower walkers onto farmland. Following our lunch break we will head on towards the lake and amble along the waterside back to the village. Pooley Bridge has a number of inviting cafes and bars for those wishing to linger a while and enjoy some refreshments, before driving the short distance back to our hotel.
This walk makes use of good tracks and paths with short sections of tarmac at the beginning and later towards the lakeside. There may be muddy sections on the lower farmland sections.
Car parking is available in Pooley Bridge, with the cheapest being £4 for the day. As this is a popular area which can get very busy at the weekends, we will arrange car-sharing beforehand and aim to make an early start, leaving the hotel at 9.15am. We invite those who are car-sharing to also share the cost of car parking which will hopefully make it affordable for all.
There are public toilets available in the village.
As you enter Pooley Bridge on the B5320 from the east, drive over the bridge, through the village, past the Sun Inn on the left, and just past the next set of white buildings on the left you will see the entrance to the car park with a sign showing £4 for parking. If entering the village from the west on the B5320, turn right at the mini-roundabout at the church, and you will very soon see the entrance to the car park on the right.
B5320, Barton, Pooley Bridge, Westmorland and Furness, CA10 2NN
