Ullswater Cruise with Hiking and an Abbey

Your first stop of the day is Aira Force, which has a convenient car park owned by the National Trust. Members can park for free. For more information, visit the official website.

Aira Force is the most famous waterfall in the Lake District, thanks to its woodland setting and the iconic stone bridges that traverse the cascades. The forest here is a renowned place to see red squirrels, so keep your eyes peeled. There are two bridges to visit, but the lower one has the best views looking up towards the waterfalls.
From the car park, walk up the well-marked trail through the forest. You'll hear the roar of the falls from some distance away so they're easy to find. The 1.3-mile circular route takes most people up to an hour, including photo stops. Sturdy footwear is a must. Admission to the falls themselves is free.

Head back to the car and drive along the beautiful lakeside road to Glenridding.

Once in the pretty village of Glenridding, pop into the R&R Corner Shop to stock up on sandwiches and snacks for a picnic lunch.
Short-stay free street parking is available just before you reach the shop.

Next, drive down to the Ullswater Steamers car park, and get ready for a boat trip along the lake to Howtown.
Check the timetable and book steamer tickets here. Advance reservations are recommended to avoid missing out on your preferred timeslot. You will be walking back along the lakeshore so hiking boots, outdoor clothing, and waterproofs are essential. Take a swimming costume if you're visiting on a hot summer's day. You will also need a rucksack for your lunch and plenty of water, especially during summer.

This scenic cruise takes in some of the best panoramas in the national park, passing islands and bays along the way. You'll be able to see the trail that you will shortly be walking on, while waving to passing sailing boats that are slicing through the water beside the steamer.
Drinks and snacks are available on board if you're feeling hungry. Get a seat on the bow deck for the best views on this 35-minute trip.

It's now time for the real adventure of the day, which is a beautiful walk back to Glenridding along the southern shore of Ullswater. You'll pass secluded bays and hidden beaches as you make your way along the undulating trail, which is suitable for anyone of reasonable fitness and mostly hugs the waterline so isn't too arduous. Stop at Silver Bay for a picnic lunch with a view, and a wild swim if it's a hot day. On the final part of the hike you'll enjoy impressive vistas of the Helvellyn range behind Glenridding.
The 6.6-mile path is direct between the Howtown steamer pier and Patterdale, from where you will then continue back to Glenridding, so it's really easy to navigate. Just keep the lake on your right! It's advisable to carry an OS Map OL5 for greater journey detail. Most people take around 3 - 4 hours with stops.

Arrive back in Glenridding and return to your car. Reward yourself with an ice cream from one of the village shops if you like.

It's time to get back on the road and leave the Lake District behind, but not without a final stop at one of its hidden gems. Shap Abbey was founded in the 12th century and enjoys a secluded and peaceful setting on the banks of the River Lowther. The photogenic ruins include the imposing west tower and the remains of the cloisters.
The site is owned by English Heritage but is free to enter and is accessible dawn to dusk, all year round. There is a small parking charge for non-members. Visit the official website to find out more.

Stop off for a well-earned dinner at The Smithy Inn in the pretty village of Holme. A true favourite with locals, this traditional pub serves up homecooked meals to weary travellers.
Check out the menu here and book a table on 01524 781302. Note that the inn is closed on Mondays.

Arrive back in Manchester tired but buzzing, after a jam-packed three days exploring the stunning Lake District National Park.