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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

Nordic Walking Tuition with Hiking Highs

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

Lakeland 100 Recce Day

Recce run for the 2026 Lakeland 50 & 100 from Pooley Bridge to Ambleside. This run is only open for…

The Ullswater Inn

Tucked at the southern tip of Ullswater, in the charming village of Glenridding, The Ullswater Inn…

The Hidden Place at Ullswater Holiday Park

This beautiful cottage is situated in its own secluded hidden place, in a peaceful and angelic…

Broad How

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

The Royal Hotel, Dockray

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

The Quiet Site Holiday Park

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

Waterfoot Park - S-Pods

Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan…

Camping Cabins at Ullswater Holiday Park

Camping Cabins are the perfect alternative to camping in a tent.

Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy Spectators' Cruise

Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club's biggest event of the year, the Lord…

Helvellyn via Striding Edge and Swirral Edge

Doing the round of Striding Edge and Swirral Edge is one of the Lake District's most famous routes…

Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge

A fabulous traditional inn at the heart of the picturesque village of Pooley Bridge, next to Lake…

Spring Foraging event at Dalemain Mansion

The varied habitats of the Dalemain Estate parklands and gardens area provide a rich, year-round…

Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens

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

Hillcroft Park - Self Catering

A choice of self-catering accommodation, owned and operated by the Heath Family. The award-winning…

Glenridding Manor House

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

Waterfoot Park - Glamping

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

Hares Garth

Set in the wild beauty of the Lakes, Hares Garth and Stone Cottage provide the perfect relaxed…

Hillcroft Park - Touring

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

Ullswater Wild Isle Swim

If you love wild swimming around beautiful islands then you will love our Wild Isle…

Waterfoot Park - Self Catering

Waterfoot Park is located in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, within walking distance of the…

Helvellyn Douple Dipper Swim

The Helvellyn Double Dipper Swim provides the perfect adventure swimming day out. Swimming in the…

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…

Moor Divock and Askham Fell

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

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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The Royal Hotel, Dockray

Address

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

Telephone
017684 82356

hello@royaldockray.co.uk

Ullswater

Nestled in the hamlet of Dockray, The Royal is a traditional family run pub, restaurant and hotel dating back over 500 years and steeped in Lakeland history. Ideally located close to Lake Ullswater and Aira Force waterfall, you can expect a warm…

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Autumn Early Bird Dawn Photography Cruise

Address

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

Telephone
01768482229

enquiries@ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Glenridding

Experience the magic of Ullswater in autumn with our special 2.5 hour photography cruise hosted by Charlotte Graham.
"Charlotte Graham is a professional photographer based in Cumbria in the north of England. Her unique combination of technical and…

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Ullswater Steamers

Address

Ullswater Steamers, The Pier House, Grisedale Bridge, Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0US

Telephone
017684 82229

enquiries@ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Grisedale Bridge, Glenridding

With beautiful, dramatic scenery that lends itself to days spent hiking amongst the Lakeland fells, exploring the quaint villages, or simply relaxing on the water, hop aboard a Ullswater ‘Steamer’ to experience this little slice of Lake District…

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The Treehouse at Another Place, The Lake

Address

Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0LP

Telephone
01768 486442

life@another.place

Ullswater

Hidden with a seculded spot within the hotel grounds and connected by glazed walkways, a large double bedroom and twin bedroom look out onto floor-to-ceiling views across the grounds to the lake and fells beyond.

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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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Stone Cottage

Address

Stone Cottage, 2 Lane Head, Deepdale, Patterdale, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0NR

Telephone
017684 82647

helen@thewildhart.co.uk

Patterdale, Ullswater

A luxuriously renovated, character house in the tiny hamlet of Deepdale. Beautifully presented in contemporary, country style. Roaring log fire, beams and magical views.

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Moor Divock and Askham Fell

Address

Pooley Bridge, Cumbria

website@cumbriatourism.org

Cumbria

Just east of Pooley Bridge at the northern end of Ullswater the moorland and low hills of Moor Divock and Askham Fell is criss-crossed by an extensive network of bridleways. For mountain bikes, the bridleways are a good introduction to real…

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Park Foot Holiday Park - Touring & Camping

Address

Park Foot Holiday Park, Howtown, 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, bike hire, laundry and childrens playground.

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1115 reviews
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The Royal Hotel, Dockray

Address

Dockray, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JY

Telephone
0176 848 2356

hello@royaldockray.co.uk

Penrith

Nestled in the hamlet of Dockray, The Royal is a traditional family run hotel, pub and restaurant. Dating back over 500 years, The Royal is steeped in Lakeland history. Ideally located close to Lake Ullswater and Aira Force waterfall, whether…

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Another Place, The Lake

Address

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

Another Place, The Lake is a relaxed, contemporary 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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Aira Force Coffee Shop

Address

Watermillock, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JS

Telephone
01768482067

ullswater@nationaltrust.org.uk

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.

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Chillswim Ullswater 7.5 Miles End to End

Address

Park Foot Holiday Park, Park Foot Holiday Park, Howtown, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2NA

Telephone
01257 251217

info@chillswim.com

Howtown, Penrith

Chillswim Ullswater 2026 will take place on Saturday 11th July at Parkfoot Holiday Park on the outskirts of Pooley Bridge, this will be the 7th edition of this incredible swimming challenge!
Swimmers will complete the full length of lake swim in…

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Muddy Boots Guided Walk - Ullswater, Gowbarrow and Aira Force

Address

Aira Force National Trust Car Park, near Watermillock, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JS

Telephone
+441524271580

info@muddybootswalkingholidays.com

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,…

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Dunmallard Car Park, Pooley Bridge

Address

Pooley Bridge, PENRITH, Cumbria, CA10 2NP

PENRITH

Pay and display car park with 37 spaces. Open 7 days a week. Charges apply every day from 8am to 8pm.

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Aira Force Car Park

Address

Watermillock, Cumbria, CA11 0JS

Pay & Display car park with 130 spaces, operated by The National Trust.
Public toilets located adjacent to the car park.

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Cow Bridge Car Park, near Brothers Water

Address

Hartsop, PENRITH, Cumbria, CA11 0NZ

PENRITH

Car park with 22 spaces. Located between Hartsop and Patterdale, Cow Bridge car park gives easy access to Brothers Water and Hartsop. Parking is free for National Trust Members but charges apply for non members.

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Glenridding Car Park

Address

Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0PD

Pay & Display car park.
Public toilets adjacent to car park.

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Glencoyne Car Park (National Trust), Ullswater

Address

Glenridding, PENRITH, Cumbria, CA11 0NQ

PENRITH

Pay & Display. (NT members free).with 35 spaces.
For access to beachside picnics, watersports and a longer trail to visit the Aira Force waterfall. Glencoyne has direct lake access (road crossing necessary, please take care) and is also the centre…

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Eusemere Car Park, Pooley Bridge

Address

Heughscaur Close, Pooley Bridge, PENRITH, Cumbria, CA10 2NE

PENRITH

Pay and display car park with 40 spaces.

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High Cascades and Park Brow Car Parks (National Trust), Ullswater

Address

Dockray, PENRITH, Cumbria, CA11 0JY

PENRITH

Pay & Display. (NT members free). High Cascades has 35 spaces, Park Brow has 15 spaces.
Best for accessing the high fells or walking to Aira Force. These smaller pay and display car parks are located just off the A5091.

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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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