Aira Force provides a glimpse of a landscaped Victorian park with waterfalls, arboretum, rocks scenery and red squirrels. From the National Trust car park there are excellent paths to Aira Green and Glencoyne where you can access the lakeshore.Other nice walks from here are to Gowbarrow Park which was once home to a large herd of deer, and evidence of old shooting boxes and stalkers huts can still be seen today. The deer have since been replaced by low numbers of hardy, traditional sheep such as Herdwick. Great walking trails including the summit of Gowbarrow fell.
Whether you plan to sit back and relax, explore or try something energetic, here are a few ideas to make your stay with us memorable.
Ullswater Way
The Ullswater Way is a 20 mile walking route which circumnavigates Ulllswater. It is divided into 4 sections, each served by the Ullswater Steamers. The Dalemain Loop passes through historical pasture to the stately Dalemain mansion and on to the ancient church of Dacre with its four stone bears. We would also highly recommend checking out the The Heritage Trail.
Pennine Way
The North Pennines Area of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB) can be seen from The Barn and we have amazing views of Cross Fell - England’s highest point outside of the Lake District. There are numberous walks starting from the Eden Valley eg. Dufton village and is the perfect place to walk as an alternative to the busier Lake District fells. This area is also an UNESCO Global Geopark. We love it for it's lonely moors, the endless skies and the undisturbed wildlife.
Eamont Way
The Eamont Way walk is a signed walking trail of 5.5 miles connecting Penrith to Pooley Bridge. The path can be accessed from The Barn via the Charles Gough path which commemorates an artist who became famous after a tragic fall on Helvellyn in 1805. His loyal dog was found guarding his body weeks later, and the story inspired poets like Wordsworth and Sir Walter Scott.
Ullswater
As well as hundreds of walks around the area and villages such as Glenridding to explore, Ullswater is a great lake for sailing, canoeing and paddleboarding - all are for hire to explore the islands and bays at your own pace. There's an active sailing club, various activity centres and pony trekking too.
Lowther Castle and Gardens
Built at the turn of the 19th century, Lowther Castle is only a 5 minute drive from The Barn. In 1957 the castle was demolished and was left derelict for over 70 years. Today, an innovative and intriguing renovation has made it into an award-winning visitor attraction. Shop, cafés, restored gardens, miles of walks and cycle hire make this a full day out.
Rheged
The Rheged Centre is only a 5 minute drive from The Barn. This is a fantastic venue, including an award winning gallery (our large Herdwick picture in our entrance hall was bought from this gallery), giant cinema, cafe, indoor and outdoor play and creative classes. There are also excellent individual shops selling children's toys and clothing, outdoor gear and gadgets, local food and drink, homeware, skincare, quality clothing all which champion British craftsmanship and design. Rheged is a building of architectural merit, with one of the largest grass roofs in the country. This is a perfect place to explore on a rainy day!
Haweswater
The quiet charm of Haweswater sets it apart from the more popular Lake District sites where landscape restoration by the RSPB and United Utilities are being undertaken. As well as many walks along the reservoir, you can also join in badger watching, guided red deer walks, red squirrel photography, fell pony treks and forest bathing!
Be inspired
The Lake District has something for everyone, for more inspiration, why not visit the Lake District National Park to help plan your holiday.