Ullswater Lakeshore: Howtown to Patterdale

Ride the Ullswater Steamer from Glenridding or Pooley Bridge to the tiny pier at Howtown, then walk back along the eastern shore of the lake to Patterdale. The path rises over Hallin Hag and drops down through the pretty farm of Sandwick before hugging the water under the flanks of Place Fell with unfolding views of the lake and the Helvellyn range beyond. It is one of the most dog friendly big walks in the Lakes, with varied terrain, plenty of water and a boat ride that dogs are welcome on for a small extra fare.

Park at Patterdale or Glenridding and take the Ullswater Steamer one way to Howtown; the boat takes dogs on lead for a nominal charge. The route is almost entirely on open access land, crossing working sheep farms where dogs must be on a short lead, especially in spring lambing and around the oak woodlands where red squirrels and ground-nesting birds are present. The terrain is rolling path with a few rocky sections and short steep rises, nothing technical. Patterdale and Glenridding both offer dog friendly pubs, cafes and public toilets, and the steamer piers have refreshments.