join A gentle stroll with pauses for poetry and conversations
July 1st, 10.00am – 2pm
As part of the Watershed project, Harriet Fraser will be leading a walk in the Ullswater Valley. It’s not a walk about getting to a summit, or racing – quite the opposite. A gentle walk with stops along the way to chat about what’s around us, learn about this remarkable place from each other, and share an occasional poem. We’ll start with a boat ride on the steamer across the lake to Aira Force, and then walk back along the Ullswater Way.
- 10am Meet Glenridding Car Park and walk to Glenridding Pier
- 11am Take the Shuttle boat to Aira Force
- Walk back along the Ullswater Way
PLACES ARE LIMITED TO 8.
To book your place: please follow this link to the Eventbrite booking page.
The Watershed project (more about that here) involves local residents and people who work in the Ullswater Valley in conversations about what matters and what gives a sense of connection to this place, and how to work towards a future that nurtures a thriving local community and a biodiverse and resilient landscape. Five artists are spending time in the valley and will share their work during an exhibition in Glenridding Village Hall (July 18-21).
If you’d like to join the walk to share your perspective (and a poem if you’d like to), or just to listen and enjoy the event, please book your place.
Practical Details
The walk from Aira Force back to Glenridding is mostly level, on a wide footpath. There is a small section along the road. The route is part of the Ullswater Way. It’s around 2.5 miles and can be walked without stops in around one hour – but we expect to take more than two hours.
Travel by public transport If you don’t live locally and are travelling to Glenridding, the 508 bus runs from Penrith. The 9.20am departure should arrive by 10.11am. If you’re catching this, we’ll wait for you! If you’re getting a bus from Windermere (leaves the rail station 0925) you’ll arrive around 1020 and may need to meet the rest of the group at the jetty. Please check up-to-date timetables, fares etc. in advance and let us know your plans (contact us here).
Car parking in the Glenridding National Park car park is Pay and Display.
Toilets: in Glenridding car park (entry payable by contactless card), and at Aira Force car park (which we’ll reach after the boat journey).
Boat journey. The cost of the boat journey is covered by the project.
Dogs: Well behaved dogs are welcome. There will be an additional £1 charge for each dog travelling on the boat.
Food and drink: Bring a packed lunch to eat along the way, and plenty of water (plus a warm drink if you fancy). Depending on the weather and how busy the tea shop is we may stop to pick up an ice cream at Aira Force.
Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs will need to be booked onto the boat in advance. The boat cannot, however, accommodate electric wheelchairs or scooters. The Ullswater Way path is accessible but can be tricky so please discuss your needs with Rob before booking a place. (contact us here)
Clothing: Please check the weather and dress appropriately!
An email with more details will be sent to you with your booking.
