Aira Force Waterfall Walk (from the Royal Hotel door)

Description:A gentle woodland walk to Ullswater’s most famous waterfall, following the course of Aira Beck from the hotel door. Beginning at the hotel door, this short and rewarding walk follows Aira Beck through beautiful woodland to the dramatic waterfall at Aira Force, one of Ullswater’s most popular natural landmarks. With a series of cascades, well-maintained paths and several viewpoints along the way, it’s an ideal low-level outing and a perfect introduction to the area.  
Route Info2.5 miles (4km) | Easy | 140m ascent / descent | allow 1½hrs
Start: Royal Hotel, Dockray
Highlights

• Aira Force waterfall and its surrounding cascades
• Peaceful woodland paths alongside Aira Beck
• Well-maintained trails throughout
• Optional café stop halfway round
• A chance to spot red squirrels

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Route description

• Bear right from the hotel door, then diagonally left to carefully cross the lane, following signs to Aira Force and Millses Farm.
• After accompanying Aira Beck for a short distance and passing between cottages, continue straight on (ignoring the path left signed to Gowbarrow summit).
• Pass through a gate in a drystone wall marking the boundary of Gowbarrow Park, and continue descending on the clear path into woodland.
• Follow the path down towards High Cascades. Do not cross the wooden bridge here; instead, remain on the left bank, following signs toward Aira Force.
• Stay on the higher path, then take a short path down on your right to reach a viewpoint overlooking the cascades.
• Rejoin the main path and continue downstream with the beck on your right, soon reaching the upper stone bridge above Aira Force, where the waterfall plunges dramatically below you.
• Rejoin the main path once again as it climbs gently away from the river, keeping an eye out for red squirrels in the surrounding woodland.
• At a gate, bear right to remain within the wooded parkland, then follow the path as it descends toward the visitor centre and tea room.
• From the visitor centre, retrace your steps briefly, then keep left to take the path through woodland that leads up to Park Brow, a fine viewpoint over Ullswater.
• Continue along the main path, which includes a few short, steeper sections, then take a brief detour down steps on your right to view Aira Force from the lower stone bridge and viewing platform.
• Rejoin the main path via the steps and return towards the upper bridge, but just before reaching it, turn left to follow the path upstream along the beck.
• Continue for around 600m, passing High Force and smaller cascades, until you return to High Cascades.
• Cross the wooden bridge this time, with the beck now on your left, and follow the path out of the woodland.
• After around 600m, rejoin the outward route. Bear left through the gate and retrace your steps back to the hotel.

Safety & practical information
Terrain: Well-surfaced and well-maintained paths throughout, though some sections in the woodland are uneven, rocky or stepped. There are steep drops beside the gorge in places.
What to take: Sturdy footwear is recommended, particularly in wet conditions. A waterproof jacket is advisable, as spray from the falls and changeable weather can make conditions damp.
Other info: This is a popular area and can be busy, particularly around the main waterfall. Take care on steps and near exposed edges, especially after rain when paths may be slippery.