Aira Force Waterfall
About
Aira Force is a 20-metre waterfall on Aira Beck near Ullswater that Wordsworth immortalised in his poem 'The Somnambulist'. The waterfall drops through a narrow gorge spanned by a stone footbridge, and the combination of falling water, ancient oaks, and moss-covered rocks is genuinely magical — especially after heavy rain when the beck is in full spate. The walk from the car park to the falls takes about 15-20 minutes through beautiful National Trust woodland. The path continues above the falls to the smaller High Force waterfall, and you can make a longer circular walk (about 1.5 hours) through the arboretum and back via the lakeshore. The autumn colours in the surrounding woodland are spectacular. Aira Force is one of the Lake District's most accessible beauty spots — the main path to the falls is well-maintained (though steep in places). It's a popular spot, especially in summer and during autumn leaf season, so arriving early or late is wise. The adjacent café (in the old farmyard) is good. Combined with a walk along the shore of Ullswater or a boat trip on the Ullswater Steamers, it makes for a perfect day.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/aira-force-and-ullswater
Tickets & Pricing
Free. Parking: NT members free, non-members from £5.
Opening Times
Open 24 hours. Car park: daily 7:00-21:00 (seasonal). Café: daily 10:00-17:00.
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