Patterdale: An Ullswater Horseshoe
A low level route that follows part of the Ullswater Way around the base of Place Fell, before returning on a higher path after passing around Silver Crag. It is possible to continue onwards to Howtown and return to Glenridding or Pooley Bridge by using the Ullswater Steamers.
Click the image to open the Outdoor Active Route Card
Key Details:
Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6km.
Elevation gain: 485ft / 150m
Terrain: Rocky paths and grassy tracks.
Start/Finish: Patterdale Hotel.
Public Transport:
service: The 508 bus runs between Penrith and the Patterdale Hotel.
Route notes:
1. Start: From the bus stop at the George Starkey Hut, follow the signs leading down the track towards Side Farm.
2. 0.3 miles: Pass through side farm, and turn left at the track that runs along the back of the farm, following this track until reaching the campsite entrance.
3. 0.6 miles: Keep right, and the track will eventually narrow to a thin footpath. Stay on this footpath, as it winds its way along Ullswater, eventually rising up to the viewpoint of Silver Point.
4. 1.8 miles: After dropping down from Silver Point, there will be a thin sheep track to the right. Use this to cut through the bracken, ascending the small valley that splits Silver Crag from Birk Fell.
5. 2.0 miles: After this brief climb, the path will level off and make its way back to Side Farm, undulating along the way.
6. 3.1 miles: Once back at Side Farm, pass through the farmyard to return back to the A592 using the same path as at the beginning of the walk.