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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 MemorialThe 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 StoneThe 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 CampbellSir 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.
- TristamontTristamont, on the lakeshore south of Pooley Bridge, is thought to have been the home of Sir Tristram, one of King Arthur’s knights.
- Patterdale TerriersWiry black Patterdale terriers first originated in the valley, where they were bred to hunt rabbits and small vermin.
- Horse RacingHorse 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
The Quiet Site began welcoming guests in 1963 and many of our original customers have journeyed…
Fancy feeling the freedom of abseiling down a cliff or off a railway viaduct? If you enjoy high…
Family park set in magnificent scenery with access to lake Ullswater. Modern facilities for touring…
The Byre was formerly used for keeping cattle on the ground floor, with hay stored on the first…
Waterfoot Park is located in the beautiful Ullswater Valley, within walking distance of the…
Set amongst the gentle rolling fells on the northern side of Ullswater, the modest peaks of Great…
Waterfoot Park is situated in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. We have both pet-free and…
The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque…
A fine Regency house surrounded by 22 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland in a stunning…
The 'Old Church' of St Martin was built in the 1660's on the site of a probable earlier chapel…
1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family…
The Victorian-style Glasshouse is the closest building to the lakeshore at Another Place. With…
The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor…
Just east of Pooley Bridge at the northern end of Ullswater the moorland and low hills of Moor…
The Living Space is a place for eating, meeting and lounging on sofas. Its food is fresh, bold and…
Feed your soul & be guided by the most knowledgeable & friendly Lake District guides, through…
The stone-built Lakeland farmhouse and traditional barns on the Park have been converted into seven…
The Honeybee and Kingfisher pods are our Glamping Cabins here at Ullswater Holiday Park, each…
Every single one of our holiday cottages have been personally inspected by dedicated property…
Chestnut House is a specialist food and drink store which carries 400 + gins and a wide range of…
Between Ullswater and Windermere, Scandanavian style lodges sit on a secluded site, in a quiet…
Just a stone's throw away from Lake Ullswater, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most stunning…
Offering beautiful mountain views from a welcoming pub and a spectacular beer garden, this pub with…
Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake. Another…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Towns & Villages
Number of results: 84
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Address
Waterfoot Caravan Park, A592, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JFTelephone
017684 86302Ullswater, 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…
Address
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, Dalemain, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0HBTelephone
0300 222 5808Penrith
Trek 26 or 13 Miles in aid of Alzheimer's Society
Trek for loved ones and bring help and hope to everyone living with dementia. Experience the beauty of Ullswater lake surrounded by towering fells and the powerful Aira Force waterfall.
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…
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.Address
Lake District - Coniston or Ullswater, Glenridding, Coniston, Cumbria, CA11 0NPTelephone
07976 949488Coniston
Fell Walkers, especially those wishing to head up into the mountains, Road & Trail runners new to navigation who wish to explore new routes.
This is an intermediate-level course for navigation for personal development & will give you a NNAS…
Address
Stone Cottage, 2 Lane Head, Deepdale, Patterdale, Ullswater, Cumbria, CA11 0NRTelephone
017684 82647Patterdale, 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.
Tourism For All
Address
Waterfoot Caravan Park, A592, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JFTelephone
017684 86302Ullswater, 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.
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
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
Park Foot Holiday Park, Howtown, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2NATelephone
017684 86309Penrith
We offer a selection of beautiful Lakeland self-catering cottages. Located both on Park Foot holiday park on the shores of Lake Ullswater and around the village of Pooley Bridge, they are suitable for families or couples looking for the convenience…
Tourism For All
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
Ullswater Steamers, The Pier House, Grisedale Bridge, Glenridding, Cumbria, CA11 0USTelephone
017684 82229Grisedale 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…
Tourism For All
Address
Ullswater Holiday Park, Watermillock, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0LRTelephone
017684 86666Penrith
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…
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…
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.
Tourism For All
Address
Waterfoot Caravan Park, A592, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JFTelephone
017684 86302Ullswater, Penrith
Waterfoot Park is situated in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. We have both pet-free and pet-friendly glamping pods available.
-
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. Address
Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0QRPenrith
Feed your soul & be guided by the most knowledgeable & friendly Lake District guides, through valleys or up onto the mountain summits.
Pooley Bridge
The Barn carries a wide range of locally sourced gifts; a great selection of quality outdoor clothing and a "canine corner" so you can spoil your best friend! We also produce our own hand made fudge in store and its is free to sample!
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.
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