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Ullswater The Lake District
Ullswater The Lake District
Ullswater The Lake District

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Ullswater

A strong contender for the most beautiful lake in England is Ullswater, a glittering jewel between Pooley Bridge to the north and Glenridding to the south carved out by a long-extinct glacier and flanked by some of the Lake District’s most eye-catching fells. In the 18th-century, the lake attracted artists and poets looking for creative inspiration – those same views are yours to enjoy, whether descending from the lofty heights of Kirkstone, climbing Hallin Fell on the eastern side or tagging the western edge to reach the stunning Aira Force waterfall.

The lake itself is a focal point of recreational activities, from sailing and boating to canoeing and windsurfing – and then there’s the pleasure of just cruising on the lake aboard an Ullswater steamer. For climbers, there’s the challenge of Helvellyn fell via Striding Edge, St Sunday Crag or the Fairfield Horseshoe.

Culture & Heritage

The high ground around Ullswater is rich in prehistoric remains. Stone circles from the Neolithic period (2500-1500BC) have been found on Barton Fell (the so-called Cockpit), Moor Divock and Swarth Fell – the last of these made up of 65 stones of which only one remains upright. Several routes across the fells converge here, suggesting that this was an ancient trade route and settlement site.

The Romans also left their mark, building a paved route known as High Street to link their forts at Brougham (Brocavum) and Ambleside (Galava). There were ancient British settlements at Bannerdale and Deepdale near Glencoyne Farm and Hartsop Hall, while a fort atop Dunmallard Hill offers pretty stunning views of the lake below. There’s another fort 2 miles (3.2km) west of here at Maiden Castle. Collectively, all of these settlements and forts suggest that this was a pretty busy spot and that there was plenty of food to go around, including fish from the lake and deer and wild boar in the extensive woodlands.

Skip forward a thousand years or so and you might have seen William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy walking in the area: in April 1802 a profusion of daffodils at Gowbarrow Park inspired the poet to write one of the English language’s most famous poems.

This pastoral idyll was interrupted a few decades later by the establishment of the Greenside Lead Mine at Glenridding, which was open for 140 years and was one of the most profitable mines in all of northern England: more than 3 million tons of ore were extracted from this exceptionally rich lead vein before the mine finally closed in 1962. Huge spoil heaps overshadow a complex of mine buildings while, further down the valley, are the gaunt rows of slate terraced houses where the miners once lived. The Ullswater Steamers first began operating in 1859 – originally to bring food and provisions to the miners at Glenridding, but a ride on the lake soon became a popular tourist attraction.

Surrounding Areas

Aira Force - Escape the ordinary at Aira Force. Let your imagination run wild as you weave your way through woodland glades from the waters edge to fell top. You'll find champion trees, cheeky red squirrels, waterfalls, perfect picnic spots, a café, pebble beaches, beautiful views and much more.

Glenridding - Glenridding can be found at the foot of the famous Kirkstone Pass at the southern end of Ullswater Lake and it is the main centre for the Ullswater area. The classic mountain Helvellyn at 3,116ft (950m) is a popular and high terrain walk that starts from the village.

Helvellyn - England's third highest peak at 3,120 ft, it is very popular with walkers all year round. 2 of the 3 approaches, Striding and Swirral edge have become something of a walkers trophy with high and difficult traversing required. Red Tarn is set in the mountain's basin.

Patterdale - This small village is based at the foot of the Kirkstone Pass and the first port of call for those approaching the Eden Valley from the South. Surrounded by dominant fells such as Place Fell and St. Sunday Crag, the little village is dwarfed by the mountains around it.

Pooley Bridge - This pretty little village situated at the Northern end of Ullswater is a great tourist hotspot. It is the Gateway to the magnificant Eden Valley if approaching from Penrith as you are greeted by sweeping views of Ullswater and the Helvellyn range at the southern tip of the lake.

Did you know?

Gough Memorial
The Gough Memorial on the summit of Helvellyn marks the spot where Charles Gough died after a fall in 1805. His dead body was guarded by his faithful dog for three months until they were found.
Parting Stone
The Parting Stone at Grisedale Tarn records the place where William Wordsworth said farewell to his much-loved brother, John, who he was never to see again. John was drowned when his ship was wrecked off Weymouth in 1805.
Sir Donald Campbell
Sir Donald Campbell achieved his first world water speed record on Ullswater on 23 July 1955, when he piloted the jet-propelled Bluebird K7 to a speed of 202.32 mph.
Tristamont
Tristamont, on the lakeshore south of Pooley Bridge, is thought to have been the home of Sir Tristram, one of King Arthur’s knights.
Patterdale Terriers
Wiry black Patterdale terriers first originated in the valley, where they were bred to hunt rabbits and small vermin.
Horse Racing
Horse racing used to take place on the top of High Street in the 19th century. One section above Hayeswater is still called Racecourse Hill.

Highlights

Hause Hall, Cruik Barn & Stables

Traditional, luxury sandstone Farmhouse and cottages accommodates 18 in 9 double bedrooms, 8…

Broad How

Spacious, comfortable, warm and well-equipped, Broad How is a charming, large Lakeland house,…

Park Foot Holiday Park

Shop, bar, restaurant, pony trekking, lake access, play areas. Open mid March to mid November

The Quiet Site Glamping

The Quiet Site is a family-run site situated in a secluded position amongst the stunning fells that…

Arragon's Cycle Hire at Hillcroft Park

From May you can hire a cycle from the award-winning Hillcroft Park is set in the beautiful…

Another Place, The Lake

Another Place, The Lake is a relaxed, convivial hotel on the shores of Ullswater from where you can…

Electric Vehicle Charging Point at Ullswater Steamers, Glenridding

We have an electric car charge point available at Glenridding for use. Enjoy light refreshments…

Boredale & Eastern Flanks of Ullswater

Tucked away behind Place Fell the Boredale bridleway is a well- established classic mountain bike…

Glenridding Sailing Centre

We offer a wide range of land and water based activities in the Lake District including RYA sailing…

The Patterdale Hotel

Gardens with seating, idyllic scenery, spectacular views, real ales, rural setting. Home from home…

Wordsworth Barn

Our stunning one-bed barn conversion has all the modern furnishings and touches, whilst retaining…

Park Foot Holiday Park

Family park set in magnificent scenery with access to lake Ullswater. Modern facilities for touring…

The East Ridge of Nethermost Pike

Tucked away at the head of Grisedale between Ruthwaite Cove and Nethermost Cove is the East Ridge…

The Living Space at Another Place, The Lake

The Living Space is a place for eating, meeting and lounging on sofas. Its food is fresh, bold and…

Crookwath Cottage

Crookwath Cottage is the ultimate hideaway cottage. Aga, wood fires, walks straight from the door…

Ullswater's North Western Fells

The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque…

Macdonald Leeming House

A fine Regency house surrounded by 22 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland in a stunning…

Guided Walk: St Sunday Crag & Fairfield

A guided walk as part of a small group to climb the mountains known as St Sunday Crag and Fairfield.

Rampsbeck Restaurant

Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake.

Treatment & Cardio Rooms at Another Place, The Lake

Flanked by two walls of glass, the pool has views that blur the boundary between you and your…

The Barn

The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor…

Ullswater View Cottage

Location, location, location the three things you need for the perfect holiday cottage and this…

Helvellyn Triathlon

One of the original challenge triathlons in the UK, with 2019 being its 16th year. Triathlete…

Granny Dowbekin's Tearooms

A Beautifully appointed tea room in continuous service since 1904 ,with a garden room and tea…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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Hause Hall, Cruik Barn & Stables

Address

Hause Hall Farm, Martindale, Near Ullswater, CUMBRIA, CA10 2NF

Telephone
07968 258234

info@therowleyestates.com

Near Ullswater

Traditional, luxury sandstone Farmhouse and cottages accommodates 18 in 9 double bedrooms, 8 ensuite and family bathroom. Superb views from Day room. Open plan sitting room, dining room and kitchen. Aga, weber BBQ and teak garden furniture

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Broad How

Address

Patterdale, Near Glenridding, Ullswater, Penrith, CA11 0NP

Telephone
0121 240 0195

broadhow@gmail.com

Ullswater

Spacious, comfortable, warm and well-equipped, Broad How is a charming, large Lakeland house, sleeping 14, ideally sited in an acre of grounds, 0.5 mile from village of Patterdale, pub and shop. Restaurants, steamer and boat hire 1.5 miles.

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Park Foot Holiday Park

Address

Howtown Road, Pooley Bridge, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2NA

Telephone
017684 86309

holidays@parkfootullswater.co.uk

Penrith

Shop, bar, restaurant, pony trekking, lake access, play areas. Open mid March to mid November

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The Quiet Site Glamping

Address

Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0LS

Telephone
07768 727016

info@thequietsite.co.uk

Penrith

The Quiet Site is a family-run site situated in a secluded position amongst the stunning fells that overlook Lake Ullswater.

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Arragon's Cycle Hire at Hillcroft Park

Address

Roe Head Lane, Pooley Bridge, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA10 2LT

Telephone
07745 190 227

info@arragons.com

Ullswater

From May you can hire a cycle from the award-winning Hillcroft Park is set in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. The park offers year-round holiday accommodation to suit every taste and pocket. Sitting above the pretty lakeside village of Pooley…

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Another Place, The Lake

Address

Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0LP

Telephone
01768 486442

life@another.place

Ullswater

Another Place, The Lake is a relaxed, convivial hotel on the shores of Ullswater from where you can explore the great outdoors. At the heart are good food, fresh air and relaxation.

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Wordsworth Poetry in Motion

Address

Ullswater Steamers, The Pier House, Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0US

Telephone
01768482229

enquiries@ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Glenridding, Penrith

To celebrate William Wordsworth's 250th birthday, join us for this special event.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1297 reviews
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Electric Vehicle Charging Point at Ullswater Steamers, Glenridding

Address

The Pier House, Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0US

Telephone
017684 82229

enquiries@ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Penrith

We have an electric car charge point available at Glenridding for use.
Enjoy light refreshments from the Pier Houses with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Free Wi-Fi and commentary app, electric bike charging and car hire…

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1297 reviews
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Boredale & Eastern Flanks of Ullswater

Address

Cumbria

Telephone
01539 822222

website@cumbriatourism.org

Tucked away behind Place Fell the Boredale bridleway is a well- established classic mountain bike descent.

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Glenridding Sailing Centre

Address

Glenridding Sailing Centre, The Spit, Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0PE

Telephone
017684 82541

info@glenriddingsailingcentre.co.uk

Glenridding

We offer a wide range of land and water based activities in the Lake District including RYA sailing courses, corporate events, team building activities, youth group events, and family adventure days.

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Dawn Photography Cruise

Address

Ullswater Steamers, The Pier House, Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0US

Telephone
01768482229

enquiries@ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Glenridding, Penrith

A unique opportunity to join our local award-winning photographer on-board a private charter.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1297 reviews
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The Patterdale Hotel

Address

Patterdale, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0NN

Telephone
0844 811 5585

reservations@choicehotels.co.uk

Ullswater

Gardens with seating, idyllic scenery, spectacular views, real ales, rural setting. Home from home comforts.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1176 reviews
More Details
Wordsworth Barn

Address

Patterdale, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0NP

Telephone
07761144427

enquiries.wordsworthbarn@gmail.com

Penrith

Our stunning one-bed barn conversion has all the modern furnishings and touches, whilst retaining its original character for the perfect relaxing retreat, This former barn is idyllically positioned in the picturesque village of Patterdale

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Park Foot Holiday Park

Address

Park Foot, Pooley Bridge, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2NA

Telephone
017684 86309

holidays@parkfootullswater.co.uk

Penrith

Family park set in magnificent scenery with access to lake Ullswater. Modern facilities for touring caravans and camping include bar, restaurant, takeaway, shop, pony trekking, tennis, bike hire, laundry and childrens playground.

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The East Ridge of Nethermost Pike

Address

Cumbria

website@cumbriatourism.org

Tucked away at the head of Grisedale between Ruthwaite Cove and Nethermost Cove is the East Ridge of Nethermost Pike. It lacks the pure quality of Striding Edge, but this is more than made up for by its truly wild setting. Positioned above big drops…

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The Living Space at Another Place, The Lake

Address

Another Place, The Lake, Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0LP

Telephone
01768 486442

life@another.place

Ullswater

The Living Space is a place for eating, meeting and lounging on sofas. Its food is fresh, bold and distinctive.

More Details
Crookwath Cottage

Address

Crookwath Cottage, Dockray, Keswick, Cumbria, CA11 0LG

Telephone
07787-140-618

richardfarncombe@gmail.com

Keswick

Crookwath Cottage is the ultimate hideaway cottage. Aga, wood fires, walks straight from the door onto the Dodds. Sleeps 2-6 people. Cost range between £595-£1295per week. Private 25 acre woodland along the Aira Beck.

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Ullswater's North Western Fells

Address

Pooley Bridge, Cumbria

Telephone
01539 822222

website@cumbriatourism.org

Cumbria

The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque hamlets. Criss-crossing this
quiet corner of the Lake District is a network of lanes and fell roads.

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Macdonald Leeming House

Address

Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0JJ

Telephone
0870 400 8131

leeminghouse@macdonald-hotels.co.uk

Ullswater

A fine Regency house surrounded by 22 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland in a stunning location on the shores of Ullswater.

More Details
Guided Walk: St Sunday Crag & Fairfield

Address

Glenridding, Cumbria

Telephone
+44 7870 778585

cath.lee@peakwalking.com

A guided walk as part of a small group to climb the mountains known as St Sunday Crag and Fairfield.

More Details

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