Glenridding Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Glenridding, a beautiful village in Lake District National Park, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Glenridding

Nestled within the Lake District National Park, Glenridding is a beautiful village that offers visitors a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. The village is located on the southern shore of Ullswater, the second-largest lake in the Lake District National Park, and is surrounded by the majestic peaks of Helvellyn and St. Sunday Crag.

Visitors to Glenridding can expect to be treated to breath-taking views, a range of outdoor activities, rich cultural history, and cozy accommodations, all nestled within the picturesque landscape of the Lake District.

List of Places to Visit in Glenridding

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Penrith and Eden Museum is a great place to start for visitors looking to learn about the history and culture of the area. The museum, located in Penrith, houses exhibits showcasing the area’s geology, Roman and Viking history, and local industries.

Another cultural attraction worth visiting is St. Patrick’s Church, which was built in 1858 and is a great example of Gothic architecture.

Natural Attractions of Glenridding: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Glenridding is known for its abundance of natural beauty, which includes several scenic views and outdoor activities.

One of the most popular activities for visitors is hiking to the mountain peaks of Helvellyn and St. Sunday Crag, both offering stunning views of the surrounding area. For those who prefer something a bit less strenuous, boat tours of Ullswater and walks around the lake are also available.

In the winter, visitors can also enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of nearby resorts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glenridding

Glenridding is a popular destination for hikers and bikers alike. With over 200 square miles of National Park to explore, there are plenty of routes to choose from. One of the most popular is the Helvellyn Ridge Walk, a challenging route that leads to the summit of Helvellyn, the third-highest mountain in England.

For less experienced hikers and bikers, shorter routes are available, such as the walk to Aira Force, a stunning waterfall located just a few miles from Glenridding.

Best Things to Do in Glenridding: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Glenridding offers a range of activities and tours for visitors.

Water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, are popular options on Ullswater, while fishing and horseback riding are also available.

Tours are another great way to explore the area. The Ullswater Steamers offer daily boat tours around the lake, with excellent views of the surrounding scenery, and the Rookin House Activity Centre offers quad biking and clay pigeon shooting experiences.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glenridding

A week-long itinerary for Glenridding might look something like this:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Glenridding and take a boat tour of Ullswater.
  • Day 2: Hike to the summit of Helvellyn, one of the most popular hikes in the area.
  • Day 3: Explore the village and surrounding areas, visiting cultural attractions such as St. Patrick’s Church and the Penrith and Eden Museum.
  • Day 4: Go horseback riding or try your hand at fishing on Ullswater.
  • Day 5: Take a tour of the local area, stopping at Rookin House Activity Centre for some quad biking or clay pigeon shooting.
  • Day 6: Go for a bike ride on one of the many trails surrounding the village.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the breathtaking views before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Glenridding

Must-Try Dishes

The Copper Pot Café is a local favorite, offering hearty breakfasts and traditional British dishes, including fish and chips and Shepherd’s Pie. For something a bit more upscale, try Fellbites Café and Restaurant, which offers delicious local and international cuisine, including a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Local Beverages

For something to drink, try a pint of local ale at the Travellers Rest Inn or The Inn on the Lake, both of which offer a range of local and international beers and wines.

Where to Stay in Glenridding: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in and around Glenridding, ranging from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. For a luxurious stay, try the Inn on the Lake, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For something more budget-friendly, try the YHA Helvellyn hostel, which is located just a few miles from Glenridding and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Glenridding: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of souvenir shops in and around Glenridding, offering a range of local products, including handmade jewelry, local artwork, and traditional British foods and sweets.

Local Culture and Customs of Glenridding

The area around Glenridding has a rich cultural history, with influences from the Roman, Viking, and medieval periods.

The village also celebrates a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Ullswater Outdoor Festival, which features a range of outdoor activities and events, and the Patterdale Dog Day, a popular event celebrating the local sheepdogs and their owners.

Best Time to Visit Glenridding

The best time to visit Glenridding is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are available.

However, the area is also beautiful in the spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom, and in the winter, when the mountains are covered in snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glenridding

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife by following the Leave No Trace principles.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities and stunning views.
  • Visit the local cultural attractions to learn about the area’s rich history.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife or damage natural resources.
  • Leave litter and garbage in the natural landscape.
  • Ignore safety warnings and guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Glenridding

The area around Glenridding is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the potential risks when participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking or water sports. Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out, and be sure to bring appropriate gear and supplies.

Health in Glenridding

The Lake District National Park is a rural area, and medical services can be limited. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage and bring any necessary medications or medical supplies with them.

Getting to Glenridding: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Glenridding

The closest airports to Glenridding are Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport, both located about two hours away by car or public transportation.

Bus Stations Near Glenridding

There are several bus stations near Glenridding, including Penrith Bus Station and Windermere Bus Station, both of which offer regular services to the area.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Glenridding by train, with regular services available to Penrith and Windermere.

How to Get Around in Glenridding

The best way to get around Glenridding is by car or bike, although there are also several local bus services available.

Where to Go Next from Glenridding: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations worth visiting include Keswick, a charming market town known for its traditional markets and stunning countryside views, and Grasmere, a quaint village known for its literary and cultural significance, as well as its delicious local cuisine.

Conclusion

Glenridding is a beautiful village that offers visitors a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. With stunning views, a range of outdoor activities, rich cultural history, and cozy accommodations, there’s something for everyone in Glenridding.