Aira Force Waterfall

Aira Force

Aira Force is the most popular waterfall in the Lake District, located mid way between Glenridding and Watermillock on the A592. There is a National Trust parking lot immediately north of the junction of the A592 with the A5091 towards Troutbeck. Parking is free for National Trust members but otherwise there is a charge.

The parking lot can get full on fine days, so plan on getting there early (or late). At the top of the parking area a path leads through lovely woodland. Of note along the way is a fallen log into which visitors have begun a custom of hammering penny and tuppence pieces. Naturally enough this tree has become known as the Money Tree.

The circular path leads to a pair of footbridges across Aira Beck, one above Aira Force and one below the falls. The best view is to be had from the lower viewpoint, where you can best see the falls as the water plunges down through a cleft in the rock. This view offers the 'picture postcard' vantage point, taking in the lovely upper bridge as it arches across the Aira.

Most visitors cross the Aira at this point and return via the circular path to the car park, but there are other options. Paths lead beyond the falls to Yew Crag, which offers excellent views east over Ullswater. Or, continue uphill from Aira Force and within a quarter mile or so you come to High Force. This waterfall is less spectacular than Aira Force but easier to get close to, and less crowded than its downhill neighbour!