Aira Force

In an 18th Century pleasure ground, Aira Force was the backdrop for Wordsworth’s ‘Somnambulist’, a gothic tale of love and tragedy. Weave your way through a network of woodland trails, through a landscape that contrasts quiet glades with the drama of waterfalls, to where Aira Beck thunders in one 65-foot drop past fern and rock into the pool below. Continuing up to Gowbarrow summit offers panoramic views over Ullswater. Starting your day in Glenridding and arriving at Aira Force by boat is a great chance to take in the Ullswater Valley sights, strolling back along the lakeshore. Look out for red squirrels, explore the natural play area, picnic and paddle at Aira Green, canoe at Glencoyne Bay, follow the tree trail through our 19th Century Pinetum. Arrive early for your best chance of seeing a red squirrel.