introduction to Ullswater...

The northern approaches from Stainton and Sockbridge pass through the ancient parishes of Dacre and Barton to converge at Pooley Bridge. From here the main road hugs the western side of the lake to Glenridding, continuing through Patterdale and Hartsop, and ultimately ascending the steep pass to Kirkstone.

The eastern route ventures to Howtown (one of the landing stages for the Ullswater Steamers) and Sandwick. Here, the bulwarks of Hallin Fell and Birk Fell dictate the lake's dog-leg shape and hide the secluded valleys of Martindale, Boredale and Bannerdale.

The conical hills of Great Mell and Little Mell Fell mark the area known as Matterdale with its tiny hamlets of Matterdale End, Dockray and Watermillock, and stretches northwards to include the ancient Celtic settlement of Penruddock.