Part way round this route, by the side of a bridleway, is a carved stone which bears the legend: 'that loveliest of lakes, curving gracefully into the far distance.' The words are Alfred Wainwright's and the lake in question is Ullswater.
This walk feasts upon those graceful curves for there are superb views down the lake throughout: from its shoreline early on and from the gentle slopes of Heughscar Hill towards the end. The jumble of mountains at Ullswater's head, with Helvellyn rising above all others, is one of the classic Lake District views. The walk also visits the wide open expanses of Askham Fell including The Cockpit, a Bronze Age stone circle.
Park in the car park close to the Sun Inn (cost £4 for the day).
Public toilets near start (50p)
When recce'd in February, parts of the walk towards Howtown were muddy. Hopefully the paths will be better in May.