North Lakeland Holidays Ullswater is justifiably considered by many to be the finest in the Lake District. The foot of the lake stretches down almost into the Eden Valley. By contrast, steep slopes surround the upper reaches while beyond, the Patterdale valley cuts deep into the heart of some of the highest mountains of the Lake District. There is a special magic that captures the imagination and draws the visitor back with a delightful blend of small hills, lakeside walks and high, rugged peaks. A fine introductory walk takes us up the Glenridding valley overlooked by craggy slopes colourful with bracken and heather. Crossing into the charming valley of Glencoyne we pass the cottages of 'Seldom Seen' to reach the lakeshore path. "Can I say how much we both enjoyed the walks under your capable guidance. I’d heard so much about the Lake District but to be there I could fully appreciate its spectacular beauty." M. Hicks & J. Hodge, Herts, UK. Call us on 01524 734022 or info@curlewguidedwalking.co.uk to book this holiday

Taking the lake steamer to Howtown lets us explore the hidden valleys of Martindale where red deer are often seen - the stags may be heard roaring on autumn days. We combine the beautiful lake shore path with a short climb to Hallin Fell or, for more energetic guests, Place Fell, both outstanding viewpoints. Gowbarrow Fell is another modest hill that nonetheless provides a memorable walk along its balcony path overlooking the fiord-like middle reaches of Ullswater. There are spectacular waterfalls at nearby Aira Force and the same daffodils that inspired William Wordsworth still bloom along the shore. A short climb from the secluded village of Hartsop takes us to Angle Tarn with its magnificent panorama of the Helvellyn range. Keen 'peak-baggers' will enjoy taking in the little tops of Angletarn Pikes. Further north the village of Mungrisedale marks the start for a walk on quiet and remote hills. A gentle climb takes us to a great rim of crags to overlook Bowscale Tarn once thought to hide immortal fish.

"We had a really good time and it was excellent to get out and walk in the Lakes again." J. Skidmore, Warwickshire, UK. The high peaks around Patterdale hold many classic mountain walks. Red Tarn sits in a wild glacial hollow from where the airy ridge of Swirral Edge leads us onto the summit of Helvellyn. An old packhorse route over Sticks Pass takes us onto the high bare hills of the Dodds with the option of taking in Sheffield Pike before returning to Glenridding. The climb onto Caudale Moor is steep but the views back over Brothers Water are a good excuse to pause on the way to High Street where we may see a golden eagle, their only nest site in England. Northward lies Blencathra, one of the great mountains of Lakeland and a memorable walk with its rock ridges and far-reaching views over the Solway Firth to Scotland.

Accommodation: Glenridding village sits at the head of Ullswater in the heart of some of the finest scenery in England. A warm welcome awaits at Mosscrag (VB 3 Stars). The pier for the lake steamers is here and rowing boats are also available for hire. There are lovely short walks by the stream or to viewpoints such as Lanty's Tarn with its delightful Scots Pines. Down the lake is Dalemain house and garden dating back to mediaeval times. Close by in Patterdale village is the lovely Grisedale Lodge. Rooms are en-suite or have private facilities. Evening meals are available at Mosscrag or in nearby hotels and pubs in both villages. Cost (week): from £510 per person based on sharing a twin or double room 2 days/nights: from £180 3 days/nights: from £265 Station: Penrith then a short bus or taxi journey. Links to travel sites can be found on our Links Page. Dates: May 13th, June 24th, July 22nd, September 9th, October 14th