“There are no more delightful starting-points than Howtown or Martindale”
A Wainwright
The fells above the northern end of Ullswater make an enjoyable days walking, grassy hills with stunning views over Ullswater throughout.
This route combines a trip on the Ullswater Steamers from Pooley Bridge to Howtown with the walk back across the fells to Pooley Bridge.
“Loadpot Hill is a natural sanctuary for all wildlife”
A Wainwright
From Pooley Bridge we will catch the 9.45 steamer to Howtown, walking up through the Martindale Valley to climb Steel Knotts, the fine rocky ridge with a spectacular summit.
The ridge continues west until it meets the mass of Wether Hill, from where we will follow the High Street Roman Road south, climbing past the remains of the old hunting lodge to the summit of Loadpot Hill.
A short descent from Loadpot Hill will bring us down onto the grassy slopes leading to Bonscale Pike with it's distinctive stone pillars overlooking Ullswater far below.
The path will then lead south from Bonscale Pike, crossing Swarth Beck to rise again to the final summit of the day, Arthurs Pike, another fine summit overlooking the northern end of Ullswater.
From Arthur's Pike the path gently descends north to The Cockpit, a stone circle in an impressive setting above Pooley Bridge, and then down into Pooley Bridge.
Please note that Steamer fares are not included in the price of the walk, each client is required to pay for their boat fare. Fares during 2015 are £6.40 for an adult and £3.20 per child.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Pooley Bridge
Postcode: CA10 2NH
Grid Reference: NY 467 242
Directions
Pooley Bridge can easily be found to the south of the A66, between Keswick and Penrith, Follow the A592 south from the Rheghed roundabout and continue until the B5320 is reached, turning left here along the lake shore.
Just before Pooley Bridge is reached the Ullswater Steamer Pier will be seen on the right hand side of the road, continue to the car park in Pooley Bridge and walk back to the pier, we will meet here at 9.30 (catching the 9.45 boat)
Bus Services
The nearest bus stop is Pooley Bridge village, it is around 20 minutes walk up the hill to this meet point.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
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