Holiday rentals in Pooley Bridge

Located in Cumbria, a region in the northwest of Great Britain, Pooley Bridge is known for its namesake structure, which crosses the River Eamont as it flows through the town and into Ullswater, the second largest lake in England’s Lake District National Park. A small, picturesque community, Pooley Bridge sits among rolling green hills, with Ullswater being the main draw to the area. Water sports like rowing and stand-up paddleboarding are available within the village, while across the bridge is the landing pier for boats that can take you on trips around Ullswater Lake during peak season.

A handful of grey stone buildings line the main street alongside St Paul’s church, which dates back to the 1860s and has a striking bell turret and spire. At the heart of the village stands the quirky Millennium Fish Cross, a sandstone monument complete with a fish-shaped weathervane on top.

Pooley Bridge is a hive of activity during the peak season in July and August when boats set off on tours around Ullswater lake several times a day. During these months, temperatures are normally at their hottest, with long days and lower rainfall levels. September is an excellent month to book your Pooley Bridge accommodation, when temperatures remain warm but there are fewer visitors to the area.

Bear in mind that some of the activities in the area are seasonal — for example, the boat tours and boats for hire in Pooley Bridge typically operate from Easter until the end of October. Despite this, the village is a year-round destination due to its position in the Lake District National Park and its proximity to Penrith on the West Coast Line. Hikers and cyclists head here for all seasons, including in winter, when the area occasionally sees snow.

Aira Force Waterfall

Aira Force Waterfall is to the west of Ullswater, just under 10 kilometres from Pooley Bridge. Here you can choose between waterfall trails ranging from one to three kilometres, walking through ancient woodland that’s home to red squirrels, red deer, and Peregrine falcons. There are excellent views from both the bottom of the falls and on the stone bridge across the top, with water cascading 20 metres down the rocks.

Hallin Fell Trail

Park at St Peter’s Church in Martindale to the east of Ullswater, around a 15-minute drive from Pooley Bridge, and set off on a 1.5-kilometre loop trail that takes you to the top of Hallin Fell. A grassy path leads you to the Hallin Fell Cairn, a stone structure marking the summit at more than 365 metres, where you are rewarded with panoramic views across the lake and the neighbouring fells.

Brougham Castle

Following the route of the River Eamont heading northwards takes you to the town of Penrith, where you’ll find the red-brick ruins of Brougham Castle, dating back to the 13th century, and the site of an old Roman fort. You can climb the narrow spiral staircases of the keep for captivating views of the surrounding countryside and discover the richness of the castle’s history in this strategic location.