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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

Pooley Bridge Inn

We have 12 comfy en-suite rooms, some with private balconies. Enjoy a full English or continental…

TJ's Bar and Restaurant at Park Foot Holiday Park

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

The Treehouse at Another Place, The Lake

Hidden with a seculded spot within the hotel grounds and connected by glazed walkways, a large…

Dalemain Plant Fair

A curated selection of independent growers and specialist nurseries gather at Dalemain along with…

Moor Divock and Askham Fell

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

Macdonald Leeming House

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

Muddy Boots Guided Walk - Ullswater, Gowbarrow and Aira Force

Start the day strolling through the pretty woodland surrounding Aira Beck as we admire the…

Stargazing & Full Moon Night Swims at Another Place

Choose to either swim at night under the light of the full moon or during the new moon when you can…

Pooley Bridge Inn - Food & Drink

The Pooley Bridge Inn offers hearty home-cooked food, vegan and gluten-free options, local seasonal…

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…

Autumn Early Bird Dawn Photography Cruise

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

The Ullswater Inn

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

Fish and Chip Supper Evening Cruises

A firm favourite, it's the return of our fish and chip supper evening cruise, featuring musical…

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…

Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy Spectators' Cruise

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

1863 Restaurant with Rooms

1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family…

Moor Divock

This area is rich in prehistoric remains including a standing stone, stone circle and cairns. Moor…

Waterfoot Park - Glamping

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

Glenridding Manor House

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

Rampsbeck Restaurant at Another Place, The Lake

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

Ullswater Steamers

With beautiful, dramatic scenery that lends itself to days spent hiking amongst the Lakeland fells,…

Ullswater Epicman Triathlon & Multisport

Ullswater Epicman Triathlon is based at Park Foot Holiday Park. You can choose either the Sprint,…

Ullswater Holiday Park

At the Ullswater caravan park, we specialise in a friendly welcome, practical family facilities and…

Waterfoot Park - S-Pods

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

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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Arragon's Cycle Hire - Delivery

Address

Arragon's Cycle Centre, 2 Brunswick Rd, Penrith, County (optional), CA11 7LU

Telephone
07525243159

arragonscycles@mac.com

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.…

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Beyonk Online Booking
- Bookable Product
Spring Dawn Photography Cruise

Address

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

Telephone
01768482229

enquiries@ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Glenridding

Experience the magic of Ullswater in spring or autumn with our special 2–3 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…

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Waterfoot Park - S-Pods

Address

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

Telephone
017684 86302

bookings@waterfootpark.co.uk

Ullswater, Penrith

Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan arrangement which incorporates a lounge area with an L-shaped sofa for cosy nights in, a well-equipped kitchen including an oven and dishwasher, and a…

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601 reviews
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Glamping Cabins at Ullswater Holiday Park

Address

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

Telephone
017684 86666

info@ullswaterholidaypark.co.uk

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.

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Waterfoot Park - Glamping

Address

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

Telephone
017684 86302

bookings@waterfootpark.co.uk

Ullswater, Penrith

Waterfoot Park is situated in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. We have both pet-free and pet-friendly glamping pods available.

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601 reviews
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Treatment & Cardio Rooms at Another Place, The Lake

Address

Watermillock, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0LP

Telephone
01768 486442

Ullswater

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

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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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1619 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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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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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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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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Glenridding Car Park

Address

Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0PD

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

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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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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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Deepdale Horseshoe

Address

Patterdale, Ullswater Valley

Ullswater Valley

The walk around Deepdale's skyline crest, taking in all its summits, is a rather surprising walk. In terms of distance it's not particularly long and in terms of height its summits are by no means highest in the Lake District, but for out and out…

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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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GOUGH MEMORIAL

PARTING STONE

SIR DONALD CAMPBELL

TRISTAMONT

PATTERDALE TERRIERS

HORSE RACING

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