Discover Cumbria

A great base from which to enjoy some of the best scenic drives in The Lake District would be Ambleside. Most of the valleys and roads in central Lakeland radiate from the village and it has an array of excellent accommodation.

Ambleside Back Kirkstone Pass to Pooley Bridge

Directly from Ambleside the steeper of the two south approaches to Kirkstone pass summit rises steeply out of the valley. This popular road heads over to Ullswater and reward you with superb views. Be sure to take the obvious opportunity to stop one third the way up, there is a small area to park on the right with views back south towards Windermere and Grizedale Forest.

Towards the summit of Kirkstone Pass the last stretch, named The Struggle, is a zig zag and very steep section. The whole of the pass is lined by Lakeland dry stone Walls and narrow in places. It is challenging but not as severe as Honister or Hardknott Passes.

Take a break at the summit from which you can experience some splendid mountain scenery surveying Wansfell to the south and Red Screes above.

Kirkstone Summit to Patterdale

Kirkstone Pass continues down into Patterdale and Ullswater (lake) with a windy but far more gentle incline and is much wider there in. It is worth continuing since scenically the most impressive section is the down hill section from the summit to Brotherswater.

Drive to Glenridding at which you may wish to stop and enjoy one of the cafes and a short walk to the edge of Ullswater.

Glenridding to Pooley Bridge

The drive between Glenridding and Pooley bridge takes you as close to a lake as you can get anywhere in the lakes in a car. The route is outstanding and rewards you with a wonderful vista. The best views are really upon your return journey. I thoroughly recommend returning by the same route because the aspect is totally different.

At Pooley Bridge a great vantage point is from the jettee for the boat trips on Ullswater. From here you can see right down the top end of Ullswater.

I drive this route regularly and never cease to be amazed nor ever tire of the views. Allow at least half a day to properly enjoy this journey.

Add a stop at Aira Force waterfall if you have the time, it is one of the best and easily accessed waterfalls in Cumbria.