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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
Glenridding Manor House Hotel: Without doubt, the best quality non pretentious accommodation on…
We offer a great selection of Touring and Tent pitches at Ullswater Holiday Park.
At Dalemain, we have focused on independent growers and specialist nurseries to protect the…
Discover the secret places of the Lake District only accessible by kayak, just waiting for you to…
A fine Regency house surrounded by 22 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland in a stunning…
A traditional tearoom set in a historic barn with homemade food and freshly brewed coffee,…
The Ullswater Inn has officially reopened following an extensive refurbishment. It is in a…
Just a stone's throw away from Lake Ullswater, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning…
A range of luxury lodges, many sleeping 4 people, some pet-friendly, suitable for families or with…
Family park set in magnificent scenery with access to lake Ullswater. Modern facilities for touring…
Start your navigation journey with Hiking Highs, from the very beginning, the first time you have…
Hidden with a seculded spot within the hotel grounds and connected by glazed walkways, a large…
As an old tradition in the Ullswater Valley, join locals and regulars to the valley to 'Beat The…
Own your very own Lakeland retreat! If you've fallen in love with the Lakes and are looking to stay…
We all have our own personal Mount Everest, climbing is one way to conquer yours. Rock Climbing…
Join us at Dalemain for our informative and fun gardening days. This will give you the unique…
Whether you're planning a car free stay, would like to explore the areas stunning scenery &…
The Byre was formerly used for keeping cattle on the ground floor, with hay stored on the first…
Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake. Another…
Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club's biggest event of the year, the Lord…
The Quiet Site is a family-run site situated in a secluded position amongst the stunning fells that…
Offering beautiful mountain views from a welcoming pub and a spectacular beer garden, this pub with…
Home to the Hasell family since 1679, visitors to Dalemain will discover a fascinating combination…
Master the 'Art of Nordic Walking' with our , Nicky Merrett, AKA Nordic Nic, or Sean Bolland our…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 95
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Ullswater
Glenridding Manor House Hotel: Without doubt, the best quality non pretentious accommodation on Lake Ullswater. Perfect for walking the coast to coast, climbing Helvellyn, Sailing, canoeing or paddle boarding on Ullswater, Taking a steamer to…
Address
Ullswater Holiday Park, Watermillock, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0LRTelephone
017684 86666Penrith
We offer a great selection of Touring and Tent pitches at Ullswater Holiday Park.
Tourism For All
Address
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, Dalemain, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0HBTelephone
01768486450Penrith
At Dalemain, we have focused on independent growers and specialist nurseries to protect the reputation of the fair. Over the years, we have built up a high standard of vendors and also continue to push to attract the best in the industry.
Dalemain…
Discover the secret places of the Lake District only accessible by kayak, just waiting for you to discover. Take a sunset paddle with a picnic dinner or journey to a sheltered hidden bay for a lunch, kayaking is as relaxing or demanding as you like.…
Address
Macdonald Leeming House, Watermillock, Ullswater, Nr Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JJTelephone
0870 400 8131Ullswater, Nr Penrith
A fine Regency house surrounded by 22 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland in a stunning location on the shores of Ullswater.
Tourism For All
Penrith
A traditional tearoom set in a historic barn with homemade food and freshly brewed coffee, alongside Dalemain’s marmalade gift shop.
Address
The Ullswater Inn, A592, Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0PBTelephone
01768 612473Glenridding
The Ullswater Inn has officially reopened following an extensive refurbishment. It is in a fantastic location on the southern shore of Ullswater, offering spectacular views of Helvellyn. In the heart of the Lake District, pull up a seat and drink in…
Tourism For All
Address
Hillcroft Park, Roe Head Lane, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2LTTelephone
017684 86363Pooley Bridge
Just a stone's throw away from Lake Ullswater, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning locations of any UK holiday park, offering glamping with a choice 19 eco-pods of two types.
Tourism For All
Address
Hillcroft Park, Roe Head Lane, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2LTTelephone
017684 86363Pooley 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…
Tourism For All
Address
Park Foot Holiday Park, Howtown, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2NATelephone
017684 86309Penrith
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.
Tourism For All
Address
Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0QRPenrith
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
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.
Tourism For All
Address
Patterdale Church of England Primary School, Patterdale, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0NLTelephone
07976 949488Penrith
As an old tradition in the Ullswater Valley, join locals and regulars to the valley to 'Beat The Bounds' of the Patterdale Parish Boundary, following the Parish Bounds as much as possible.
The Full Parish Boundary Event is 28 miles long with…
Address
Waterfoot Caravan Park, A592, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JFTelephone
017684 86302Ullswater, Penrith
Own your very own Lakeland retreat! If you've fallen in love with the Lakes and are looking to stay a little while longer, why not consider purchasing your own private holiday home? At Waterfoot Park, we have a range of lodges available, all of…
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…
Address
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, Dalemain, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0HBTelephone
01768486450Penrith
Join us at Dalemain for our informative and fun gardening days.
This will give you the unique opportunity to follow our garden through the seasons at close hand, while learning alongside a small group of people. Whether you're green-fingered or…Address
Arragon's Cycle Centre, 2 Brunswick Rd, Penrith, County (optional), CA11 7LUTelephone
07525243159Penrith
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.…
Address
Deepdale Hall, Patterdale, Nr Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0NRTelephone
017684 82369Penrith
The Byre was formerly used for keeping cattle on the ground floor, with hay stored on the first floor i.e. in the hay loft. The Byre has been converted to a very high standard with oak wood used throughout, retaining the original beams.
Tourism For All
Ullswater
Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake. 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…
Tourism For All
Address
Ullswater Steamers, The Pier House, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria, CA10 2NNTelephone
017684 82229Pooley Bridge
Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club's biggest event of the year, the Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy race. You're welcome to bring a picnic, and our onboard licensed bar will be open, so you can toast the celebrations in style. The…
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