You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > 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.
Getting there: A short section of the A592 at High Kingate is currently closed, but Glenridding and Patterdale remain fully accessible from the north - and you can still access Kirkstone Pass from the northern end. If you’re approaching Ullswater from the south, official diversion routes are signposted and you can plan ahead with Westmorland & Furness Council updates here.
A wide variety of local shops, cafés, pubs and accommodation are looking forward to welcoming you!
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.
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.
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.
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 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, on the lakeshore south of Pooley Bridge, is thought to have been the home of Sir Tristram, one of King Arthur’s knights.
Wiry black Patterdale terriers first originated in the valley, where they were bred to hunt rabbits and small vermin.
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.
The Pooley Bridge Inn offers hearty home-cooked food, vegan and gluten-free options, local seasonal…
Camping Cabins are the perfect alternative to camping in a tent.
We have 12 comfy en-suite rooms, some with private balconies. Enjoy a full English or continental…
Welcome to The Patterdale Estate, where your holiday adventure awaits amidst the breathtaking…
Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club's biggest event of the year, the Lord…
The Victorian-style Glasshouse is the closest building to the lakeshore at Another Place. With…
Just a stones throw from Lake Ullswater & Pooley Bridge, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most…
A luxuriously renovated, character house in the tiny hamlet of Deepdale. Beautifully presented in…
The Montane Ullswater Way Trail Ultra, 20 & 10 starts and finishes at Jenkins Field in Glenridding.…
Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake. Another…
Local food and drink, contemporary en-suite rooms, roaring fires and lively conversation await for…
1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family…
Whether you're planning a car free stay, would like to explore the areas stunning scenery &…
The varied habitats of the Dalemain Estate parklands and gardens area provide a rich, year-round…
We all have our own personal Mount Everest, climbing is one way to conquer yours. Rock Climbing…
A curated selection of independent growers and specialist nurseries gather at Dalemain along with…
At the Ullswater caravan park, we specialise in a friendly welcome, practical family facilities and…
The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor…
Just a stone's throw away from Lake Ullswater, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning…
The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque…
Every single one of our holiday cottages have been personally inspected by dedicated property…
Nestled in the hamlet of Dockray, The Royal is a traditional family run hotel, pub and restaurant.…
A short stroll from the main Aira Force car park is the Aira Force Coffee Shop, a place to relax…
5* Holiday Park offering touring, glamping pods and self-catering overlooking Ullswater. Perfect…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
.jpg)
Number of results: 96
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Penrith
A short stroll from the main Aira Force car park is the Aira Force Coffee Shop, a place to relax and refuel ready for your next adventure. It’s open daily from 10am – 4.30pm, with outdoor seating, serving some tasty treats and refreshing cold drinks.
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.
Ullswater, Penrith
Waterfoot Park is situated in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. We have both pet-free and pet-friendly glamping pods available.
Ullswater
Dinner at 1863 will no doubt generate conversation around the table on the night, but (we hope!) will also give you something to talk about long after you’ve left for the evening.
Penrith
The varied habitats of the Dalemain Estate parklands and gardens area provide a rich, year-round array of plants, trees and fungi for us to explore.
Our Foraging Courses begin with a short introduction to Wild Food UK, what to expect from your day…
Penrith
Celebrating the magic of Marmalade, the festival has become a highlight of the Cumbrian Spring calendar.
Thousands of jars of marmalade entered into the competition by Artisans and Home Makers will be judged and on display throughout the Mansion.…
Pooley Bridge
A firm favourite, it's the return of our fish and chip supper evening cruise, featuring musical entertainment. The ticket price includes a two-hour evening cruise departing from Pooley Bridge pier and a fish and chip supper (veggie/gluten-free…
Penrith
This beautiful cottage is situated in its own secluded hidden place, in a peaceful and angelic rural setting in the village of Watermillock. It is completely surrounded by green fields, with immense views of Lake Ullswater and her spectacular array…
Penrith
Camping Cabins are the perfect alternative to camping in a tent.
Penrith
Whether you're planning a car free stay, would like to explore the areas stunning scenery & landmarks by cycle, or would like an exclusive guided day out, simply select what you require & we will deliver everything directly to your accommodation.…
Penrith
Start your navigation journey with Hiking Highs, from the very beginning, the first time you have opened your paper map, to the technical contour only courses, our team are experienced navigation coaches... have fun, see the map with 3 dimensional…
Ullswater, Pooley Bridge
The Pooley Bridge Inn offers hearty home-cooked food, vegan and gluten-free options, local seasonal specials, fine cask ales, world wines, spirits, and cosy teas, coffees, or festive mulled wine.
Ullswater
The Living Space is a place for eating, meeting and lounging on sofas. Its food is fresh, bold and distinctive. Expect lamb tagine, burgers and fries, meze plates, salads, sourdough pizza and doorstep sandwiches.
Pooley Bridge
Ullswater Epicman Triathlon is based at Park Foot Holiday Park. You can choose either the Sprint, Standard or Epicman Middle distance triathlon races. The event starts with a 1900m, 1500m or 750m swim in Ullswater, followed by an undulating 90k,…
Penrith
The Honeybee and Kingfisher pods are our Glamping Cabins here at Ullswater Holiday Park, each complete with an equipped kitchenette, dining area, and private bathroom with shower, sink, and toilet.
Penrith
The Quiet Site is a family-run site situated in a secluded position amongst the stunning fells that overlook Lake Ullswater. This is a superbly maintained and very picturesque site, and there are many beautiful walks that you can start from right…
Pooley Bridge
A fabulous traditional inn at the heart of the picturesque village of Pooley Bridge, next to Lake Ullswater. Home-cooked food and cask ales served in the cosy bar or outdoors on the large sun terrace overlooking the river.
Pooley Bridge
A range of luxury lodges, many sleeping 4 people, some pet-friendly, suitable for families or with private hot tubs, the choice is yours. Just a stone's throw away from Lake Ullswater, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning locations of any…
Glenridding
The Swim to Devils Chimney is another one of our favourite island-hopping adventures, this time on Ullswater. With it's 'Big Lake' exposure and dramatic views this exciting swim requires a good level of fitness… anything can happen on the way to…
Penrith
Start the day strolling through the pretty woodland surrounding Aira Beck as we admire the impressive Aira Force and gradually gain height to emerge on the open fellside.
A steep section takes us up to 'Airy Crag', the summit of Gowbarrow Fell,…
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL