Mossdale Bay/Glenridding Dodd | A Lake District Photography Guide

A couple of Ullswater classic Lake District photography locations…

Mossdale Bay and Glenridding Dodd are two brilliant photography locations in the Ullswater area. Mossdale Bay is especially stunning in autumn, with some of the best colours in the Lake District. The accessibility here is a big bonus, with a path that’s easy to follow and a short walk from Glenridding village. The bay has plenty of interest, from lovely trees and small islands in Ullswater to the incredible atmosphere you’ll get on a misty morning. It’s the kind of spot where you can capture both wide, sweeping views and more intimate scenes.

Some beautiful autumn light on the way up to Glenridding Dodd | Nikon Z7 | 24-200mm

Almost opposite Mossdale Bay, there’s a path leading up to Glenridding Dodd (at the bus stop). The walk itself is full of opportunities to stop and take photos, with a cascading beck and beautiful woodland along the way. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort, with Ullswater stretching out below and the surrounding fells framing the scene. A mid-range zoom lens is a good choice here, letting you capture both the details on the way up and the sweeping views from the summit.

The beck en route to Glenridding Dodd offers plenty of photographic opportunity | Nikon Z7 | Nikon 14-30mm | Nisi 6-stop ND

Moody views atop Glenridding Dodd | Nikon Z7 | Nikon 24-200mm

Some incredible colour beside Ullswater | Nikon Z7 | Nikon 24-200mm | Nisi 6-stop ND

Both Mossdale Bay and Glenridding Dodd offer something special, and they’re close enough to combine into one trip. If you’re exploring the lake’s edge or climbing higher for a different perspective, this area has so much variety to work with. It’s a location I keep coming back to, and it never disappoints. Nearby Glencoyne Bay is also a fantastic spot for sunrise - in fact, it’s a true Lake District photography classic!

A gorgeous view of Ullswater from Glenridding Dodd | Nikon Z7 | Nikon 24-200mm

How to Get to Mossdale Bay/Glenridding Dodd

Mossdale Bay/Glenridding Dodd is located beside Ullswater in the Lake District, and it’s easy to reach by car. Click HERE for a link to Google Maps. This ‘pin’ will show you where to park. If you prefer, you can also park in Glenridding village and walk north, or, park at Glencoyne Bay and walk south.