Dockray’s history begins with an inn: the settlement grew around an establishment that served as a horse-changing station for stagecoaches. The historic route to Ullswater is also part of this picture of early travel. It began at Park Gate and ran through the Greystoke estate. Anyone interested in paths and their history will find this a different way to explore the village than through walks and nature.

Walking Trails and Nature

At Aira Force, a marked trail from the main car park takes about 20 to 30 minutes at a steady pace to reach the waterfall. Marked trails lead to two stone bridges over the gorge and waterfall. The walking trails there range from 0.5 to 2 miles long. These details provide a clear basis for comparing trail lengths without treating all routes as the same distance. Native red squirrels continue to thrive at Aira Force—another aspect of nature to enjoy alongside the waterfall and trails.

Another walking option starts at a gate near the Green Shed. From there, you can access Watermillock Common, where the first ridge walk also begins. This is a specific option for anyone who would like to swap waterfall trails for a ridge walk.

Local History and Heritage

East of Dockray lies the former Dockray Cornmill, with its mill leat between Aira Beck and Riddings Beck. The mill is also known as “New Mill.” A reference dating from 1675 calls the earlier mill “Old Mills,” showing that it had been built before that year. A wooden leat was constructed on stone retaining walls to channel the water and power an overshot waterwheel. The water system harnessed the power of Aira Beck and also served to protect against flooding. The mill therefore reveals not only its former function but also the role of its water system.

Matterdale Church lies halfway between Dockray, Matterdale End and Ulcat Row. The church dates from the 16th century and has served the local community since 1573. Hollins Farmhouse and Barn is another listed building: the farmhouse and barn in Dockray are Grade II listed. The church, mill and farmhouse represent different aspects of local and architectural history.

Accommodation and Art in Dockray

The Royal at Dockray is a family-run, traditional country hotel. The Aira Force Waterfall Walk from the Royal Hotel starts at the hotel. The route from The Royal to the summit of Gowbarrow and back is 3.5 km long. These details answer different planning questions: the starting point is given for the Waterfall Walk, while the Gowbarrow route also includes the total out-and-back distance.

You can also plan a studio visit: Gina Farncombe welcomes visitors to her studio by appointment. It is just behind the bridge, as seen from The Royal Hotel Dockray. The hotel also displays works by artists based in Dockray; exhibition arrangements may change. If you are visiting specifically to see the studio or a particular exhibition, arrange your studio visit in advance and check what is currently on display at the hotel.

Discover more destinations: Askam-In-Furness, Ivegill, Ireby, Dent, Glenridding, Tebay, Carlisle, Levens

For the main travel overview: Cumbria.