Aira Force Waterfall Walk near Ullswater

The walk itself is almost as impressive as the waterfall. Trails wind through Aira Force’s ancient woodland, alongside Aira Beck and beneath towering trees before reaching a series of viewpoints around the falls. Personally, I think the best view of Aira Force is from the lower viewing platform, where you can look directly towards the waterfall as it crashes into the rocky pool below. It’s a fantastic photography spot, particularly after heavy rain when the waterfall is at its most powerful.

It’s also worth following the path to the stone bridge above Aira Force, which crosses directly over the top of the waterfall. Standing here gives you a completely different perspective as Aira Beck disappears beneath you before plunging into the gorge below.

Whether you’re searching for the best waterfalls in the Lake District, an easy walk near Ullswater, a family-friendly Lake District walk, or simply somewhere beautiful to visit around Glenridding and Ullswater, Aira Force is well worth adding to your itinerary. You can make your visit a short walk to the waterfall and back, or extend it through the surrounding woodland and along the shores of Ullswater for a much longer day out.

In this guide I’ll show you how to get to Aira Force, where to park, the best Aira Force walking routes, how long the walk takes, and the best viewpoints for seeing and photographing the waterfall.

Aira Force Waterfall is near Ullswater on its north-western edge. It’s about a 5 minute drive from Glenridding and a 15 minute drive from Pooley Bridge. The Ullswater steamer boat also stops near Aira Force so you could get off the steamer here for a walk. There is a National Trust Car Park at Aira Force which will cost you a few quid for a few hours

 

Aira Force Waterfall – FAQ:

 

Aira Force is a really impressive Lake District waterfall with a 65ft drop and you can get great views from the bottom on the viewing platform, as well as walk right across the old stone bridge

 

Aira Force Waterfall Walk Map:

Here is the Aira Force Waterfall map of all the walking paths in the area. The left map shows the wider area around Aira Force, including the path to High Force and beyond if you want to extend your walk. The map on the right shows in more detail the more popular paths to Aira Force Waterfall itself. Save off this map image to help when you get there!

My favourite  Aira Force Waterfall walking route:

I’ve highted in yellow the shorter walking route I prefer when visiting Aira Force for a leisurely walk, which can be done in about an hour. This is the route I’d take the kids on too. I like to do it in a clockwise direction, initially keeping close to Aira Force Beck on my right and then eventually heading down the 104 steps to the viewing platform to look up at Aira Force and get that amazing view and fresh air blast from the waterfall. I’ll then cross Aira Force Beck and head up the 76 steps and walk onto the stone bridge for a different perspective of Aira Force Waterfall.  I’ll then retrace my steps slightly and then walk the higher path which leads to the 170 year-old Sitka Spruce, after that it’s onto Glade Bridge and then back to the car park.

Aira Force Waterfall is impressive in all seasons and when visiting Aira Force you’ve got to view it from the bottom viewing platform and also the the stone bridge that goes over the top. On my preferred route above, you come down the 104 steps to the left on this photo and then cross the bridge bottom right and head  up the 76 steps to the bridge over Aira Force.

 

Extending your Aira Force walk – A LONGER ROUTE 

You’ll get some stunning views of Ullswater on the longer Gowbarrow fell walk

HISTORY OF AIRA FORCE WATERFALL

Aira Force waterfall, located in the Lake District of England, is a stunning natural feature that has captivated visitors for centuries. The waterfall is situated in the Ullswater valley, one of the most picturesque regions in the Lake District National Park. Aira Force, with its dramatic drop of around 20 meters, has long been a point of interest due to its striking beauty and the surrounding lush woodland. The history of Aira Force dates back to the 18th century, with the area becoming a popular destination for tourists drawn to the area’s natural splendor. Over time, the waterfall has become an iconic landmark, often featured in writings and paintings, and remains a must-see for nature lovers.

The development of the Aira Force waterfall area into a popular tourist attraction began in the late 1700s when the land was part of the estates owned by the powerful and wealthy 1st Earl of Lonsdale. The Earl, who was known for his enthusiasm for improving his estates and creating aesthetically pleasing landscapes, commissioned the construction of a series of paths and viewing platforms that allowed visitors to safely admire the beauty of the waterfall. These developments helped establish Aira Force waterfall as a destination for those seeking the tranquil beauty of nature, and they also reflected the growing interest in the picturesque landscape movement that dominated England during the Romantic period.

In the 20th century, Aira Force waterfall became part of the National Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, the waterfall remains one of the most visited natural attractions in the Lake District, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Its serene yet powerful presence continues to inspire poets, artists, and photographers, making it a symbol of the region’s natural beauty. The area around Aira Force also offers numerous walking trails, making it a central spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, ensuring that the waterfall remains as much a part of the Lake District’s identity today as it was when it first captured the imagination of visitors centuries ago.

I hope this blog post has made you want to visit Aira Force and helped you in planning your visit!