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You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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, on the lakeshore south of Pooley Bridge, is thought to have been the home of Sir Tristram, one of King Arthur’s knights.
Wiry black Patterdale terriers first originated in the valley, where they were bred to hunt rabbits and small vermin.
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.
Read LessStepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan…
Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake. Another…
Fell Walkers, especially those wishing to head up into the mountains, Road & Trail runners new to…
The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque…
Master the 'Art of Nordic Walking' with our , Nicky Merrett, AKA Nordic Nic, or Sean Bolland our…
Set in the wild beauty of the Lakes, Hares Garth and Stone Cottage provide the perfect relaxed…
The Living Space is a place for eating, meeting and lounging on sofas. Its food is fresh, bold and…
A range of luxury lodges, many sleeping 4 people, some pet-friendly, suitable for families or with…
Hidden with a seculded spot within the hotel grounds and connected by glazed walkways, a large…
Spacious, comfortable, warm and well-equipped, Broad How is a charming, large Lakeland house,…
A short stroll from the main Aira Force car park is the Aira Force tea-room, a place to relax and…
The scenic combination of lakes surrounded by steep-sided mountains is one of the things that makes…
We offer a great selection of Touring and Tent pitches at Ullswater Holiday Park.
The Byre was formerly used for keeping cattle on the ground floor, with hay stored on the first…
The Quiet Site began welcoming guests in 1963 and many of our original customers have journeyed…
Waterfoot Park is situated in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. We have both pet-free and…
Welcome to The Patterdale Estate, where your holiday adventure awaits amidst the breathtaking…
At the heart of the village of Patterdale at the southern tip of Ullswater, the Patterdale Hotel is…
Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club's biggest event of the year, the Lord…
With the still waters of the Lakes as an inspiring backdrop, sewists of any experience are invited…
A firm favourite, it's the return of our fish & chip evening cruise, featuring musical…
Just a stones throw from Lake Ullswater & Pooley Bridge, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most…
Glenridding Manor House Hotel: Without doubt, the best quality non pretentious accommodation on…
Family park set in magnificent scenery with access to lake Ullswater. Modern facilities for touring…
Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan…
Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake. Another…
Fell Walkers, especially those wishing to head up into the mountains, Road & Trail runners new to…
The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque…
Master the 'Art of Nordic Walking' with our , Nicky Merrett, AKA Nordic Nic, or Sean Bolland our…
Set in the wild beauty of the Lakes, Hares Garth and Stone Cottage provide the perfect relaxed…
The north western side of Ullswater is a mixture of low rolling fells interspersed with picturesque…
Master the 'Art of Nordic Walking' with our , Nicky Merrett, AKA Nordic Nic, or Sean Bolland our…
Set in the wild beauty of the Lakes, Hares Garth and Stone Cottage provide the perfect relaxed…
The Living Space is a place for eating, meeting and lounging on sofas. Its food is fresh, bold and…
A range of luxury lodges, many sleeping 4 people, some pet-friendly, suitable for families or with…
Hidden with a seculded spot within the hotel grounds and connected by glazed walkways, a large…
Spacious, comfortable, warm and well-equipped, Broad How is a charming, large Lakeland house,…
A short stroll from the main Aira Force car park is the Aira Force tea-room, a place to relax and…
The scenic combination of lakes surrounded by steep-sided mountains is one of the things that makes…
We offer a great selection of Touring and Tent pitches at Ullswater Holiday Park.
The Byre was formerly used for keeping cattle on the ground floor, with hay stored on the first…
The Quiet Site began welcoming guests in 1963 and many of our original customers have journeyed…
Waterfoot Park is situated in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. We have both pet-free and…
Welcome to The Patterdale Estate, where your holiday adventure awaits amidst the breathtaking…
At the heart of the village of Patterdale at the southern tip of Ullswater, the Patterdale Hotel is…
Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club's biggest event of the year, the Lord…
With the still waters of the Lakes as an inspiring backdrop, sewists of any experience are invited…
A firm favourite, it's the return of our fish & chip evening cruise, featuring musical…
Just a stones throw from Lake Ullswater & Pooley Bridge, Hillcroft Park boasts one of the most…
Glenridding Manor House Hotel: Without doubt, the best quality non pretentious accommodation on…
Family park set in magnificent scenery with access to lake Ullswater. Modern facilities for touring…
Stepping through the sliding glass doors and into the S-Pod, you’ll be welcomed by the open plan…
Our restaurant is a relaxed, ambient space with an open kitchen and views of the lake. Another…
Fell Walkers, especially those wishing to head up into the mountains, Road & Trail runners new to…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
Number of results: 95
, currently showing 61 to 80.
Patterdale, Ullswater
At the heart of the village of Patterdale at the southern tip of Ullswater, the Patterdale Hotel is the perfect base for a walking holiday, while the tranquil surroundings are also perfect for a more relaxing break. You can be sure of home-from-home…
Pooley Bridge
A fabulous traditional inn at the heart of the picturesque village of Pooley Bridge, next to Lake Ullswater. Home-cooked food and cask ales served in the cosy bar or outdoors on the large sun terrace overlooking the river.
Ullswater
The Victorian-style Glasshouse is the closest building to the lakeshore at Another Place. With panoramic views of Ullswater and the fells beyond, its open Thursday to Monday for wood-fired pizza, coffee and cocktails to hotel guests and non-resident…
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…
Ullswater
1863 is more than a bar, bistro and B&B accommodation with seven elegant bedrooms; we are a family affair who enjoy getting the little things just right, welcoming guests back times and again to share in a slice of Lake District paradise.
Penrith
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.
Grisedale Bridge, Glenridding
The Famous Autumn Red Deer Rut in the Ullswater and Martindale area of the Lake District is a hidden gem as the bellowing of stags echoes around Martindale and Boredale. Join us with your binoculars to experience this truly magical connection to…
Penrith
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…
Hartsop, Patterdale
Between Ullswater and Windermere, Scandanavian style lodges sit on a secluded site, in a quiet corner of the Lakes. Sleep up to six in all Lodges. Week, short-week & weekend breaks available. Equipped with fitted kitchen, colour TV & free Wi-Fi.
Ullswater
Wet bouldering, Canyoning, Ghyll Scrambling, Rock hopping...
Whatever you want to call it, whether it’s a descent or ascent or a splash down the river, it’s a buzz.
Tucked away behind Place Fell the Boredale bridleway is a well- established classic mountain bike descent.
Pooley Bridge
With two dedicated camping fields, camping at Hillcroft Park is a really lovely choice. Camping field Angle Tarn is set amongst our Pods, so if some of you are traditional campers but perhaps other family members prefer something more substantial…
Penrith
At the Ullswater caravan park, we specialise in a friendly welcome, practical family facilities and a range of accommodation to suit all needs. An ideal place for exploring the Lakes.
Penrith
A short stroll from the main Aira Force car park is the Aira Force tea-room, a place to relax and refuel ready for your next adventure. It’s open daily from 10am – 4.30pm, with indoor and outdoor seating, serving some tasty treats and refreshing…
Penrith
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…
Penrith
Our modern 6-berth static caravans are spacious and offer comfortable family accommodation with all the facilities and equipment that you would expect from your holiday home.
PENRITH
The 'Old Church' of St Martin was built in the 1660's on the site of a probable earlier chapel dating from 1220. The church is fully open and much visited, with all entries in the visitor’s book remarking on the special atmosphere and sense of peace…
Penrith
Feed your soul & be guided by the most knowledgeable & friendly Lake District guides, through valleys or up onto the mountain summits.
Ullswater
Spacious, comfortable, warm and well-equipped, Broad How is a charming, large Lakeland house, sleeping 14, ideally sited in an acre of grounds, 0.5 mile from village of Patterdale, pub and shop. Restaurants, steamer and boat hire 1.5 miles.
Glenridding, Penrith
With the still waters of the Lakes as an inspiring backdrop, sewists of any experience are invited to leave behind the cares of the everyday and spend a weekend in a luxurious setting to dedicate time and attention to a sewing project. We'd love to…
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