Pooley Bridge sits at the northern end of Ullswater.
This attractive village in the Lake District is an ideal base for walks of varying lengths and difficulties.
The surrounding area features lakeside paths and fell routes that deliver memorable views.
You will discover a good mix of easy outings and more demanding hikes within easy reach.
Here are five recommended walks starting from or near Pooley Bridge.
Related: The Best Pooley Bridge Things To Do
Walks from Pooley Bridge
Pooley Bridge Circular
You start this gentle circular walk right in the centre of Pooley Bridge.
The path soon brings you to the bank of Ullswater, where you follow the lakeside trail for much of the distance.
You enjoy calm water views across to the fells on the far shore.
The route passes through a pleasant mix of open lakeside areas and some woodland sections.
Along the way, you may spot the Millennium Fish Cross monument.
The outbound leg offers a peaceful stroll with plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the scenery.
On the return, you follow a narrow paved road back into the village.
You need to stay alert to occasional vehicles on this final section.
This short route works well as a relaxed morning or evening outing and gives you an excellent first taste of the local lakeside paths.
- Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 265 ft (81 m)
- Estimated time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Route type: Circular
Related: Best Pooley Bridge Pubs
Pooley Bridge and Howtown Circular
This substantial circular walk follows the shoreline of Ullswater south from Pooley Bridge towards Howtown.
For the first half, you stay close to the lake and take in beautiful water views through woodland and open sections.
The path winds beside the water and offers constant interest as the fells rise in the background.
Once you reach Howtown, the route turns inland and climbs onto the fells.
From the higher ground, you gain expansive views along the full length of Ullswater and across the surrounding mountains.
The return journey leads you through farmland and quiet countryside paths with varied terrain.
The changing scenery and mixture of lakeside and fell walking make this a highly rewarding full-day route.
It suits walkers who want a good challenge without extreme difficulty.
- Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 2,020 ft (616 m)
- Estimated time: 5 to 5.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Route type: Circular
Patterdale to Pooley Bridge
You begin this challenging linear walk in Patterdale at the southern end of Ullswater.
The route heads north and initially follows paths close to the lake before rising.
As you progress, the trail takes you over open fells and hillside sections with regular climbs that reward you with dramatic elevated views down the lake and across the surrounding mountains.
You cross several ridges where the mountain scenery opens up fully.
The path then leads you through a mix of upland terrain before the final descent brings you down to Pooley Bridge.
This demanding walk suits experienced hikers and offers some of the most impressive perspectives in the area.
You experience the scale and beauty of the central Lake District on this route.
Plan your return transport from Pooley Bridge at the end.
- Distance: 10.6 miles (17 km)
- Elevation gain: 2,447 ft (746 m)
- Estimated time: 6 to 6.5 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Route type: Point-to-point
Glenridding, Patterdale and Rooking Round
This satisfying circular walk links the villages of Glenridding, Patterdale and the small settlement of Rooking at the southern end of Ullswater.
You start from the car park in Glenridding and descend to the pier, where you see steamers on the lake and the monument to Donald Campbell, who set a world water speed record here.
The route then follows the lakeside path to Side Farm, a working farm and campsite with a seasonal tea room.
From there, you continue to Rooking, where you pass Wordsworth Studio, a cottage once owned by the poet but never lived in by him.
You cross the main road and walk through Glenamara Park with stepping stones over Hag Beck.
The path climbs gently to Thornhow before you reach the area near Lanty’s Tarn and its historic ice house.
A short climb to Keldas rewards you with panoramic views back over Ullswater.
The route returns on a good path to Glenridding, where refreshments are available.
This moderate walk provides an enjoyable half-day out with a good balance of scenery and manageable effort.
- Distance: 5.1 miles (8.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 990 ft (302 m)
- Estimated time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Route type: Circular
Pooley Bridge and Roehead Circular
From Pooley Bridge, this moderate circular walk takes you uphill towards Roehead.
As you gain elevation, the views over Ullswater grow increasingly impressive with each step.
The path crosses open moorland and bridleways where you experience a strong sense of space and openness in the landscape.
You may pass near historic features on the higher ground, such as stone circles.
Sections of the route can feel damp underfoot after rain, so good boots help.
The varied terrain and wide-ranging views make this an engaging walk with real character.
The descent brings you back through quieter countryside to complete the loop at Pooley Bridge.
This route offers a fine combination of climb and views without being overly strenuous.
- Distance: 6 miles (9.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 1,079 ft (329 m)
- Estimated time: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Route type: Circular
Advice for Walking In The Lake District
Weather conditions in the Lake District change rapidly. Always check a reliable forecast before setting off and be ready for rain or wind.
Wear sturdy walking boots with ankle support. Bring a waterproof jacket and over trousers along with extra insulating layers.
Carry a map and compass. Phone signal can be unreliable in the hills, so do not rely on your phone alone for navigation.
Tell a friend or family member your planned route and expected return time. Take sufficient water, food, and a small first-aid kit.
Know your own limits and turn back if conditions worsen or you become tired.
Walking Dogs in the Area
The walks around Pooley Bridge and Ullswater are popular with dog owners. Many paths welcome well-behaved dogs.
Always keep your dog on a lead when near livestock, particularly during lambing season in the spring.
Stick to the designated paths to protect wildlife and ground-nesting birds.
Remember to clean up after your dog.
On warmer days, some dogs enjoy a paddle or swim in Ullswater, but supervise them closely near the water.
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Where to Stay in The Cumbrian Lake District
Our Cumbrian holiday cottages provide the perfect base for exploring the walks from Pooley Bridge.
After a day spent on the trails, you can return to comfortable and well-equipped accommodation.
The cottages give you space to unwind, private gardens in many cases, and full kitchens where you can prepare hearty meals or pack lunches for the next day.
They allow you to stay in the Lake District and make the most of every walking opportunity.
See Our Luxury Cumbrian Cottages Here…
Some Final Notes On Walks From Pooley Bridge
Pooley Bridge offers access to an impressive selection of walks.
From short, gentle circuits to longer and more demanding routes, there is something suitable for most visitors.
Match your walk choice to the weather and your fitness level on the day.
The combination of lake and fell scenery makes these routes particularly special.
Take time to absorb the views and enjoy the experience at your own pace.
These walks showcase some of the finest walking country the Lake District has to offer.
