Classic Walks In The English Lake District & Yorkshire Dales

ULLSWATER, GLENCOYNE BRIDGE, AIRA FORCE & GOWBORROW PARK
7 miles · 450m accumulated ascent
Step into the very landscape that inspired some of the greatest writing of the Romantic age. Our walk takes us through the former pleasure grounds of the Greystoke Castle Howard family (Catherine of “head-chopped-off” notoriety & the legendary Tarzan connection) before leading us to the shores of Ullswater—where Dorothy and William Wordsworth first came upon their “host of golden daffodils.”
As we pause along the route, there will be a short discussion of the Wordsworths’ poems and Dorothy’s journal entries, brought to life by Salma Bhuta (English teacher & lecturer). These moments will give us the chance to see how the words grew directly out of the landscape beneath our feet.
Expect magnificent views over Ullswater and the surrounding fells, tumbling waterfalls, and perhaps even the flash of a red squirrel in the trees 🐿️.
Practicalities:
• Dress for the weather.
• No jeans; sturdy walking boots are recommended (no flat-soled trainers).
• Avoid cotton layers (cotton kills in winter).
• Bring waterproofs, hat & gloves, a spare warm layer, packed lunch, water, and a warm drink.
SORRY NO DOGS
This outing also serves as a recce walk for future literary walks in the area. Guests are welcome, though we kindly ask they either eventually join the group or make a small donation.
If you sign up, please commit to attending.

ULLSWATER, GLENCOYNE BRIDGE, AIRA FORCE & GOWBARROW PARK
Dorothy’s “Host of Golden Daffodils” Walk

7 miles · 450m accumulated ascent

Step into the very landscape that inspired some of the greatest writing of the Romantic age. This walk takes us from the shores of Ullswater, through the cascading waterfalls of Aira Force, and across Gowbarrow Fell with its sweeping views, before returning to the very place where Dorothy Wordsworth first recorded in her Grasmere Journal the sight of a “long belt of daffodils.”

It was Dorothy’s vivid description of that moment—“dancing and laughing in the wind”—that later gave William the inspiration for one of the most famous poems in the English language, “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.”

Along the way, we’ll pause for short readings from Dorothy’s journal and William’s poems, brought to life by Salma Bhuta (English teacher & lecturer). These reflections will reveal how Dorothy’s eye for detail, her companionship, and her writing were central to William’s creative process.

Expect:
• Glorious views across Ullswater and the surrounding fells
• Tumbling waterfalls and ancient woodland
• A carpet of spring daffodils and maybe even the flash of a red squirrel 🐿️

Practicalities:

Dress appropriately for the weather

Sturdy walking boots are essential (no flat-soled trainers)

Bring waterproofs, hat, a spare warm layer, packed lunch, water, and a hot drink

Sorry, no dogs

Donations:
There is no set fee for this walk, but donations are gratefully received to support future events. Guests are welcome, though we kindly ask they also contribute a small donation.

Age guidance:

Not suitable for children under 15

Young people aged 15–18 must be accompanied by an adult, who remains responsible for them throughout the walk.
If you sign up, please commit to attending.