Glenridding | Where Outdoor Adventure Meets Tranquil Beauty

Updated 20/07/2025

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Table of Contents

Key Takeaways for Glenridding, Cumbria

Glenridding is a scenic village on the southern tip of Ullswater in the Lake District.
Ideal base for adventure, nature, and relaxation.
Hike Helvellyn via Striding Edge (challenging, for experienced walkers).
Cruise Ullswater on historic steamers (family- and solo-friendly).
Rent kayaks, canoes, or sailboats from local providers.
Easier hiking options: Sheffield Pike, Glenridding Dodd.
Try mountain running (with Mountain Run) and e-biking (Ullswater eBikes).
Visit Greenside Mine (historic lead mine), Aira Force waterfall, and Dalemain Historic House & gardens.
Family-friendly picks: Lowther Castle, Rheged Centre, boat hire at St Patrick’s.
Events: Ullswater Country Fair, Dalemain Harvest Festival, winter skills courses on Helvellyn.
Dining: The Travellers Rest, The Ullswater Inn, Fellbites Café, Helvellyn Country Kitchen, many cater to vegetarian/gluten-free diets.
Stays for every budget: campsites, hostels, B&Bs, luxury hotels (book early for peak season).
Reach by car (M6/A592), train (Penrith station + 508 bus), bus, or eco-friendly options (cycling, steamers).
Pack for changing weather; check safety advice for fell walks.
Visit midweek or off-season for fewer crowds.
Support local shops, use sustainable transport, and leave no litter.

Introduction to Glenridding, Cumbria

Nestled at the southern tip of Ullswater, Glenridding, Cumbria, is a postcard-perfect village that captures the heart of the Lake District’s rugged beauty. Imagine waking to the sight of mist gently rising from the shimmering lake, with the dramatic fells of Helvellyn looming in the distance, inviting adventurers and dreamers alike. This charming hamlet, once a bustling lead-mining hub, has transformed into a haven for UK travellers seeking nature, adventure, and tranquillity. Whether you’re scaling England’s third-highest peak, cruising on a historic steamer, or savouring a hearty meal in a cosy pub, Glenridding offers an unforgettable escape. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Glenridding, where to eat, stay, and how to get there, with insider tips to make your Lake District adventure seamless and spectacular.

Things to Do in Glenridding, Cumbria

Collage of activities labeled 'Things To Do' featuring groups of people hiking in mountains, playing beach volleyball, shopping in a busy market, playing beach games, and practicing yoga outdoors in a park.

Glenridding, Cumbria, is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and families. Its proximity to Ullswater and Helvellyn makes it a hub for adventure, while its quaint village charm offers plenty for those seeking a slower pace. Here’s a curated list of activities tailored to different travellers.

Outdoor Adventures

Glenridding’s location in the Lake District National Park makes it a magnet for outdoor lovers. From challenging hikes to serene water activities, there’s something for every level of adventurer.

Hiking Helvellyn via Striding Edge: Helvellyn, standing at 3,116ft (950m), is a must for thrill-seekers. The Striding Edge route is a legendary scramble, offering breathtaking views but requiring experience and caution due to its exposed ridges. Check weather conditions at the Ullswater Information Centre before setting out. Best for adventure seekers.

Ullswater Lake Activities: Ullswater, the second-largest lake in England, is perfect for water-based adventures. Try:

Ullswater Steamers: Take a scenic cruise on historic vessels like the “Lady of the Lake” (1877) or “Raven” (1889). Cruises connect Glenridding to Pooley Bridge, Howtown, and Aira Force, offering stunning lake views. Ideal for families and solo travellers.

Kayaking and Canoeing: North Star Adventure UK offers guided kayak tours, exploring Ullswater’s islands and shores. St Patrick’s Boat Landing provides motorboat, rowing boat, and canoe hire for independent exploration. Great for families and groups.

Sailing: The Glenridding Sailing Centre offers boat hire and tuition for beginners and seasoned sailors. Perfect for couples and solo travellers.

Sheffield Pike and Glenridding Dodd: For less daunting hikes, Sheffield Pike offers a manageable ascent with panoramic views, while Glenridding Dodd is a shorter walk with rewarding lake vistas. Suitable for families and moderate hikers.

Mountain Running with Mountain Run: For adrenaline junkies, join a guided trail-running session with Mountain Run, the UK’s leading school for extreme mountain running. Best for adventure seekers.

Cycling with Ullswater eBikes: Explore Glenridding’s trails sustainably with carbon-neutral e-bikes, ideal for covering more ground with less effort. Great for groups and eco-conscious travellers.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Glenridding’s history as a lead-mining village adds depth to its appeal. Explore these cultural gems:

Greenside Mine History: Visit the site of the former Greenside Mine, once the UK’s most productive lead mine (closed 1962). The Helvellyn Youth Hostel, housed in a former mining bunkhouse, offers a glimpse into this industrial past. Ideal for solo travellers and history buffs.

Aira Force Wate rfall: A short drive or walk from Glenridding, this 70ft waterfall is a National Trust gem, surrounded by woodland trails and picnic spots. It inspired Wordsworth’s poetry, adding a literary touch. Perfect for families and couples.

St. Martin of Tours Church, Martindale: A 17th-century church near Glenridding, offering a peaceful historical retreat. Great for solo travellers seeking quiet reflection.

Dalemain Historic House: A short drive away, this Tudor manor house features splendid gardens and a deer park, ideal for a cultural day trip. Suitable for families and history enthusiasts.

Seasonal Events

Glenridding comes alive with events, particularly in summer and autumn:

Ullswater Country Fair (Summer): A family-friendly event with local crafts, food stalls, and live music, typically held near Pooley Bridge. Check local listings for 2025 dates.

Harvest Festival at Dalemain (Autumn): Celebrate Cumbria’s harvest with talks, tours, and activities, perfect for families and cultural explorers.

Winter Skills Courses: Join Fell Top Assessors for winter hiking workshops, learning safe fell-walking techniques. Best for adventure seekers.

Verify event dates before travelling

Family-Friendly Activities

Glenridding is ideal for families, with activities that balance fun and safety:

Rheged Centre: A short drive away, this family hub offers indoor play areas, a 3D cinema, and a café, perfect for rainy days. Great for young children.

Lowther Castle and Gardens: Explore its adventure playground and gardens, a hit with kids and parents alike. Ideal for family day trips.

Boat Hire at St Patrick’s: Rent a rowing boat for a gentle lake adventure, safe for kids with adult supervision. Fun for all ages.

Places to Eat in Glenridding, Cumbria

Collage of six images showing various dining scenes including a busy indoor food hall, groups of people enjoying meals at indoor restaurant tables, a couple dining together smiling, and outdoor seating under colourful umbrellas in a garden-like setting.

Glenridding’s dining scene is small but vibrant, offering everything from hearty pub fare to light café bites. Many venues cater to dietary needs, reflecting the Lake District’s growing focus on inclusive dining.

The Travellers Rest:

What to Expect: A traditional Lakeland pub with stunning views of Glenridding and Helvellyn. Known for generous portions and classics like sticky toffee pudding with custard.

Highlights: Offers vegetarian and gluten-free options, such as veggie burgers and gluten-free fish and chips. Outdoor seating is perfect for sunny days.

Price Range: Mains £12–£18. Note some reviews mention inconsistent service and high drink prices (e.g., £15 for two mulled wines). Best for groups and couples.

The Ullswater Inn:

What to Expect: A modern inn with a pub serving home-cooked meals all day. Expect dishes like Cumberland sausage with mash and local ales.

Highlights: Vegan and vegetarian options, including plant-based pies. The lake-view dining area enhances the experience.

Price Range: Mains £10–£16. Some guests note pricey drinks (e.g., £2.95 for soda water and lime). Ideal for families and hikers.

Fellbites Café and Bistro:

What to Expect: A cosy spot open daily (except Mondays) from 09:00 to 21:00 on weekends. Known for superb breakfasts and light lunches.

Highlights: Offers vegan breakfasts and gluten-free cakes. Try their homemade scones with Cumbrian cream tea.

Price Range: £6–£12 for mains. Great for solo travellers and couples.

Helvellyn Country Kitchen:

What to Expect: A quaint café perfect for grab-and-go sandwiches, soups, and pastries, ideal for hikers.

Highlights: Locally sourced ingredients and vegetarian-friendly soups. Limited seating, so takeaway is popular.

Price Range: £4–£8. Best for quick bites.

Local Tip: For a unique experience, pack a picnic from Glenridding’s small shops (e.g., Glenridding Mini Market) and enjoy it by Aira Force or Ullswater’s shores. Many eateries source local produce, so look for Cumbrian specialities like Herdwick lamb or sticky toffee pudding.

Accommodation in Glenridding, Cumbria

Glenridding offers a range of accommodation to suit all budgets, from campsites to luxury inns, all within easy reach of Ullswater and Helvellyn. Booking early is essential, especially in summer.

Budget-Friendly Options:

Gillside Caravan and Camping Site: A family-friendly site with pitches for tents and caravans, close to Ullswater. Facilities include showers and a shop. Perfect for families and budget travellers. Rates: £10–£20 per night.

Helvellyn Youth Hostel: Housed in a former mining bunkhouse, this hostel offers dorms and private rooms with stunning fell views. Ideal for solo travellers and hikers. Rates: £15–£50 per night.

Mid-Range Options:

Glenridding House: A luxury B&B with period charm, offering lake-view rooms and hearty breakfasts. Great for couples. Rates: £80–£150 per night.

Ullswater Caravan Park: Offers glamping pods and static caravans with family-friendly amenities like playgrounds. Ideal for families. Rates: £50–£100 per night.

Luxury Options:

The Ullswater Inn – The Inn Collection Group: A modern inn with lake-view rooms, a lively pub, and pet-friendly options. Perfect for couples and small groups. Rates: £100–£200 per night. Note mixed reviews on noise and service.

Inn on the Lake: A 4-star hotel with elegant rooms, a spa, and direct lake access. Best for luxury seekers and romantic getaways. Rates: £150–£250 per night.

Booking Tips:

Book 3–6 months in advance for peak season (July–August).

Check for pet-friendly options if travelling with dogs, as many accommodations, like The Ullswater Inn, welcome pets.

Look for deals on midweek stays or off-season visits (March–May) for lower rates.

How to Get to Glenridding, Cumbria

Glenridding is accessible by car, public transport, or eco-friendly options, making it easy for UK travellers to reach this Lake District gem.

By Car:

From the South (e.g., London): Take the M6 to Junction 40 (Penrith), then the A66 towards Keswick. At the second roundabout, take the A592 to Ullswater, a scenic route along the lake to Glenridding. Journey time: ~5 hours from London.

From the North (e.g., Carlisle): Follow the A6 to Penrith, then the A592. Journey time: ~45 minutes.

Parking: The main Glenridding Car Park (Pay & Display) is centrally located near shops and the Ullswater Steamers pier. Public toilets are adjacent. Arrive early in summer to secure a spot.

By Public Transport:

Train: The nearest station is Penrith (North Lakes), served by Avanti West Coast from London Euston (~3 hours) or Glasgow (~1.5 hours). From Penrith, take the 508 bus to Glenridding (~20 minutes, hourly service). Check Stagecoach for timetables.

Bus: Stagecoach’s 508 route connects Penrith, Pooley Bridge, and Glenridding. National Express coaches serve Penrith from major cities.

Eco-Friendly Travel:

Cycling: The A592 has cycle-friendly sections, and Ullswater eBikes offer rentals for sustainable exploration.

Walking: Combine a bus to Patterdale with a scenic walk to Glenridding (~1 mile) along Ullswater’s shore.

Tip: Use the Ullswater Steamers for low-carbon lake travel between Glenridding and other stops like Howtown.

Accessibility Notes: The Ullswater Information Centre provides route maps and accessibility advice for those with mobility needs.

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Local Tips for Visiting Glenridding, Cumbria

To make the most of your trip, consider these practical tips based on current travel insights:

Weather Preparedness:

Glenridding’s weather can change rapidly, especially on Helvellyn. Pack waterproofs, layers, and sturdy boots year-round. Check the Fell Top Assessors’ Weatherline for daily updates in winter.

Summer (July–August) is warm but crowded; spring (March–May) offers quieter trails and lower accommodation costs.

Avoiding Crowds:

Visit Aira Force early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds.

Opt for lesser-known walks like Brotherswater or Martindale’s red deer trails for a peaceful experience.

Hidden Gems:

Explore Glencoyne Bay, a mile north of Glenridding, for Wordsworth’s daffodil-inspired views in spring.

Visit Low Hartsop, a cluster of 17th-century stone cottages, for a glimpse of traditional Cumbrian life.

Sustainable Travel:

Support local businesses by shopping at Glenridding Mini Market or dining at venues using Cumbrian produce.

Use public transport or e-bikes to reduce your carbon footprint.

Safety on Helvellyn:

Striding Edge is not for beginners. Take a guided walk with Skyline or check safety advice at the Ullswater Information Centre.

Carry a map, compass, and emergency supplies, as mobile signal can be patchy.

Local Events: Check the Visit Lake District website for 2025 event listings, as festivals like the Ullswater Country Fair may require advance planning.

Conclusion: Why Glenridding, Cumbria, Should Be Your Next Adventure

Glenridding, Cumbria, is the Lake District at its finest — a blend of rugged adventure, serene beauty, and rich history. Whether you’re conquering Helvellyn’s Striding Edge, cruising Ullswater on a historic steamer, or unwinding in a cosy pub with lake views, this village delivers unforgettable moments. Its compact size belies its offerings, from family-friendly activities to adrenaline-pumping hikes, all framed by the stunning fells and waters of the Lake District. With practical planning and our insider tips, your trip to Glenridding will be as seamless as it is spectacular. Below, find a printable checklist to ensure you’re ready for your Glenridding adventure.

FAQs – Glenridding, Cumbria

Where is Glenridding located?

Glenridding is a village located on the southern shores of Ullswater in the Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England. It is about 8 miles south of Penrith and 4 miles from the village of Patterdale.

What is Glenridding known for?

Glenridding is best known as a popular starting point for climbing Helvellyn, one of the highest peaks in England. The village is also famous for its stunning lakeside scenery and as a gateway to various outdoor activities on and around Ullswater.

How can I get to Glenridding?

Glenridding is accessible by car via the A592 road, which runs along the eastern shore of Ullswater. The nearest train station is in Penrith, from which you can take a bus or taxi to Glenridding. Bus services also connect the village with other parts of the Lake District.

What are the main attractions in Glenridding?

The main attractions in Glenridding include Ullswater, where you can enjoy boating, kayaking, and scenic cruises on the Ullswater Steamers. The village is also a base for hiking Helvellyn and other nearby fells. The nearby Aira Force waterfall is another popular attraction.

What outdoor activities can I do in Glenridding?

Glenridding offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain climbing, and water sports. The hike to Helvellyn is particularly popular, as are walks along the Ullswater Way and up to the Aira Force waterfall. You can also enjoy sailing, fishing, and swimming in Ullswater.

What dining options are available in Glenridding?

Glenridding has a selection of dining options, including traditional pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Many establishments offer Cumbrian specialities and provide beautiful views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells.

What is the history of Glenridding?

Glenridding has a rich history tied to its past as a lead mining village in the 19th century. The remains of the Greenside Mine can still be seen near the village. Today, Glenridding is better known for tourism, with its natural beauty and outdoor activities attracting visitors year-round.