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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.

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!

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

Park Foot Holiday Park - Touring & Camping

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

Tents & Touring at Ullswater Holiday Park

We offer a great selection of Touring and Tent pitches at Ullswater Holiday Park.

Hillcroft Park - Touring

Just a stones throw from Lake Ullswater & Pooley Bridge, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most…

Waterfoot Park - Holiday Homes For Sale

Own your very own Lakeland retreat! If you've fallen in love with the Lakes and are looking to stay…

The Swim to Devil's Chimney

The Swim to Devils Chimney is another one of our favourite island-hopping adventures, this time on…

Nordic Walking Tuition with Hiking Highs

Master the 'Art of Nordic Walking' with our , Nicky Merrett, AKA Nordic Nic, or Sean Bolland our…

Stone Cottage

A luxuriously renovated, character house in the tiny hamlet of Deepdale. Beautifully presented in…

The Quiet Site Holiday Park

The Quiet Site began welcoming guests in 1963 and many of our original customers have journeyed…

Park Foot Holiday Park - Self Catering

We offer a selection of beautiful Lakeland self-catering cottages. Located both on Park Foot…

The Royal Hotel, Dockray

Nestled in the hamlet of Dockray, The Royal is a traditional family run hotel, pub and restaurant.…

Hartsop Fold Holiday Lodges

Between Ullswater and Windermere, Scandanavian style lodges sit on a secluded site, in a quiet…

Glenridding Manor House

Glenridding Manor House Hotel: Without doubt, the best quality non pretentious accommodation on…

Another Place, The Lake

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

Broad How

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

Glamping Cabins at Ullswater Holiday Park

The Honeybee and Kingfisher pods are our Glamping Cabins here at Ullswater Holiday Park, each…

Autumn Early Bird Dawn Photography Cruise

Experience the magic of Ullswater in autumn with our special 2.5 hour photography cruise hosted by…

Shepherd Huts at Another Place, The Lake

The six new shepherd huts have been expertly crafted by Blackdown Shepherd Huts using sustainable…

The Barn

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

Moor Divock and Askham Fell

Just east of Pooley Bridge at the northern end of Ullswater the moorland and low hills of Moor…

The Royal Hotel, Dockray

Nestled in the hamlet of Dockray, The Royal is a traditional family run pub, restaurant and hotel…

Ullswater's North Western Fells

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

Hillcroft Park - Glamping

Just a stone's throw away from Lake Ullswater, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning…

Waterfoot Park - Glamping

Waterfoot Park is situated in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. We have both pet-free and…

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens

Home to the Hasell family since 1679, visitors to Dalemain will discover a fascinating combination…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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Towns & Villages

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Dalemain Tearoom

Address

Dalemain, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0HB

Telephone
017684 86450

houseopening@dalemain.com

Penrith

A traditional tearoom set in a historic barn with homemade food and freshly brewed coffee, alongside Dalemain’s marmalade gift shop.

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Fish and Chip Supper Evening Cruises

Address

Ullswater Steamers, Pooley Bridge Pier, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2NN

Telephone
01768482229

enquiries@ullswater-steamers.co.uk

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…

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Helvellyn Douple Dipper Swim

Address

Glenridding, Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0PD

Telephone
015394 33826

swim@swimthelakes.co.uk

Glenridding

The Helvellyn Double Dipper Swim provides the perfect adventure swimming day out. Swimming in the awe-inspiring Red Tarn is not to be missed and the second dip in Ashworth's Dub on the descent route rounds the day off nicely.
This is our own…

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Game, Set and Match

Address

Another Place, The Lake, Another Place, The Lake, Lake District National Park, Another Place The Lake, Ullswater, Watermillock, Cumbria, CA11 0LP

Telephone
01768 486442

life@another.place

Another Place The Lake, Ullswater, Watermillock

Swap the frenzy of Henman Hill for the sweep of Ullswater's fells this July as Another Place, The Lake serves up a tennis experience to remember on The Glasshouse lawn.
Get into the summer spirit with traditional garden games on the grass and…

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Great Mell Fell & Little Mell Fell Cycle Loop

Address

Pooley Bridge, Cumbria

Telephone
01539 822222

website@cumbriatourism.org

Cumbria

Set amongst the gentle rolling fells on the northern side of Ullswater, the modest peaks of Great Mell Fell and Little Mell Fell
display instantly recognisable profiles.

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The Swim to Devil's Chimney

Address

Glenridding Car Park, Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0JS

Telephone
01539433826

swim@swimthelakes.co.uk

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…

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Nordic Walking Tuition with Hiking Highs

Address

Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0QR

enquiries@hikinghighs.co.uk

Penrith

Master the 'Art of Nordic Walking' with our , Nicky Merrett, AKA Nordic Nic, or Sean Bolland our new expert instructor. Both Nicky & Sean are qualified instructors with British Nordic Walking. They will take you through the ‘10 Steps to Nordic…

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Tents & Touring at Ullswater Holiday Park

Address

Ullswater Holiday Park, Watermillock, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0LR

Telephone
017684 86666

info@ullswaterholidaypark.co.uk

Penrith

We offer a great selection of Touring and Tent pitches at Ullswater Holiday Park.

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Navigation Tuition with Hiking Highs

Address

Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0QR

enquiries@hikinghighs.co.uk

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…

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Waterfoot Park - Self Catering

Address

Waterfoot Caravan Park, A592, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JF

Telephone
017684 86302

bookings@waterfootpark.co.uk

Ullswater, Penrith

Waterfoot Park is located in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, within walking distance of the charming village of Pooley Bridge, the Ullswater ‘Steamers’ pier, and Ullswater itself.

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617 reviews
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holidaycottages.co.uk

Address

Throughout Cumbria

Telephone
01237 459888

customerservices@holidaycottages.co.uk

Every single one of our holiday cottages have been personally inspected by dedicated property managers to ensure a high standard of holiday accommodation. Our growing collection of well-kept properties in Cumbria and the Lake District make a perfect…

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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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TJ's Bar and Restaurant at Park Foot Holiday Park

Address

TJ’s Bar & Restaurant, Howtown, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2NA

Telephone
017684 86309

holidays@parkfootullswater.co.uk

Penrith

TJ's Bar and Restaurant at Park Foot Holiday Park, also featuring an outdoor takeaway and seating area.

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1126 reviews
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Epic Lakes Swim Ullswater

Address

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

Telephone
01257 251217

info@epicevents.co.uk

Pooley Bridge

Epic Lakes Swim Ullswater takes place from Park Foot Holiday Park, near Pooley Bridge, which provides a stunning backdrop for the event. You can choose either the 750m, 1500m, 3k or 5k distances, depending upon your age and ability.

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Climbing in Ullswater Valley with Adventure Vertical

Address

Ullswater, Cumbria

Telephone
07849 398 288

info@adventurevertical.co.uk

Ullswater

We all have our own personal Mount Everest, climbing is one way to conquer yours. Rock Climbing whether indoors or outdoors is a great group or family activity. With the opportunity for learning the basic skills and looking after each others safety…

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Trek26 Lake District

Address

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, Dalemain, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0HB

Telephone
+447774812400

tom@gladiatorevents.co.uk

Penrith

Fundraisers of Alzheimer's Society will take on on an incredible 13 or 26 mile trek.
The 26 mile route will start and finish at our event hub at Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, CA11 0HB.
The 13 mile route starts at Patterdale Cricket Club,…

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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. Expect lamb tagine, burgers and fries, meze plates, salads, sourdough pizza and doorstep sandwiches.

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Beer Festival with Live Music

Address

The Royal Hotel, Dockray, Dockray, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JY

Telephone
017684 82356

hello@royaldockray.co.uk

Penrith

Experience the best of the Lake District's community spirit, scenery and local flavour at the Royal Dockray Hotel's charity weekend on 19–20 June.
Set in the picturesque village of Dockray near Ullswater, this two-day event combines outdoor…

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Abseiling in Ullswater Valley with Adventure Vertical

Address

Ullswater, Cumbria

Telephone
07849 398 288

info@adventurevertical.co.uk

Ullswater

Fancy feeling the freedom of abseiling down a cliff or off a railway viaduct?
If you enjoy high level excitements then why not step boldly over the edge of a near-vertical rock face or abseil down the side of a railway viaduct?

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Shepherd Huts at Another Place, The Lake

Address

Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0LP

Telephone
01768 486442

life@another.place

Ullswater

The six new shepherd huts have been expertly crafted by Blackdown Shepherd Huts using sustainable French oak cladding. The double-braced huts have stargazing roofs, free-standing baths, and a lounge area with a log burner.

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Ullswater

Culture & Heritage

Surrounding Areas

Did you know?

GOUGH MEMORIAL

PARTING STONE

SIR DONALD CAMPBELL

TRISTAMONT

PATTERDALE TERRIERS

HORSE RACING

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