Pooley Bridge to the top of Kirkstone Pass

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Description There are many dramatic drives in the Lakes but our favourite must be the one starting from Pooley Bridge and driving along the shore of Ullswater through Glenridding and Patterdale before the ascent of Kirkstone Pass. The road offers many fine views of Ullswater and there is a car park a little way down from Pooley Bridge.On the right hand side is Aira Force waterfall which is well worth a visit particularly after heavy rain (no problem this year!) After Aira Force I headed on through the villages of Glenridding and Patterdale and pulled into Sykeside Campsite where I cheekily sat at one of their picnic tables to take in the view. You can see the last vestiges of what Cumbrians call "sna on't tops" in the february sunshine. Much refreshed it was time to hit the road and the ascent of Kirkstone Pass. Kirkstone Pass is a real pleasure when quiet,its not torturous or dramatic in the way Wrynose Pass is but its the sense of anticipation as you near the summit ready for what you know will be a great view. Luckily at the top is the Kirkstone Pass Inn!