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With its glistening waters, craggy fells and cascading waterfalls, you’ll be spoilt for choice on things to do in Ullswater.
Tucked away on the northeastern edge of the National Park, Ullswater is one of the Lake Districts best kept secrets.
Wondering what to do in Ullswater when you visit? We’ve compiled a handy list to help you out! Continue reading to learn more about our favourite things to do in Ullswater…
The second largest body of water in the Lake District, Ullswater stretches a staggering 7.5 miles in length. At its largest point, Ullswater is only ¾ mile wide.
This ribbon lake lies in an unsual stretched Z shape. It’s three stretches meander in and out of the surrounding hills.
Situated amongst some of the finest scenery in the Lake District, simply soaking in these surroundings sits at the top of our list of our favourite things to do in Ullswater.
Ullswater is often referred to as the most beautiful of the Lakeland ‘lakes’. It is thought to have been the inspiration behind workings of the renowned poet, William Wordsworth.
This area of the Lake District is underpopulated and underdeveloped by comparison to other parts of the National Park. Because of this, Ullswater feels particularly tranquil, secluded and relaxing.
Combined with an abundance of things to do in Ullswater, both on and off the water, you’ll undoubtedly keep returning, time and time again.
Whether you’re a first-timer, or a seasoned visitor to Ullswater, you can’t miss a cruise aboard an Ullswater Steamer.
The Ullswater Steamer sails to four piers, including Pooley Bridge, Howtown, Aira Force Waterfall and Glenridding. From here, you can soak up the spectacular scenery of this unique landscape from a different perspective.
Sailing times vary depending on the time of year. Check out the Ullswater Steamer timetable here.
Believed to be the oldest working passenger vessel in the world, the M.Y. Lady of the Lake has operated on Ullswater for over 150 years.
Climb aboard and let the on-board commentary guide you through some incredible tales of myth and legends. Along the journey you’ll get the chance to see wildlife unique to this area as well as celebrated properties!
There’s toilets and licensed bars on board, as well as an open and sheltered deck, ideal for those rainier days in the Lakes! With a varied Ullwater Steamer timetable available, you can be sure to find a departure time to suit your itinerary.
Tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day of departure, subject to availability. Four-legged friends are welcome, with canine companion tickets available for £1.00.
If you’re planning on filling your itinerary with a few things to do in Ullswater then you’ll likely want to take advantage of the ‘First Class Cruise and Steam‘ voucher.
In conjunction with its sister attraction, the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, the ticket combines a return steam-train journey in the first class carriage of the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway with a one-hour private cruise on the Ullswater Steamer.
What’s better, the tours don’t even have to be taken on the same day!
A trip with Ullswater Streamers is an experience itself. But they are particularly well designed for helping you get the most out of your time in the Lake District.
With cruises varying between 20-120 minutes and connecting some of the best walks, cycle routes and scenery, there’s plenty to keep you busy nearby!
If you’re in need of inspiration for where to walk with little ones, we recommend the Tale Trails. These charming childrens stories tell the tale of some fantastic walking trails surrounding the Ullswater region.
Created by Anja Phoenix and based on myths around the Lake District, some of the fabulous family-friendly walks to look out for include Hetti the Carvetii of Pooley Bridge and The Nozomi Bird of Aira Force.
One of our favourites is the story of Eric the Curious of Hallin Fell. This tale is about a lovable herdwick sheep who gets up to all sorts of mischief on his first adventure up this Lakeland fell.
Perfect for little legs, this two hour family walk begins at Howtown Pier, where the story and trail map are sure to keep little ones entertained along the way.
The Ullswater Steamers have four heritage boats available for private charters. All set on the waters of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, what could be better!
Whether it be celebrating a wedding, an engagement, a birthday, or just a special gathering, for a truly unique event, we love the intimancy of a private cruise.
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Hire includes use of the onboard facilities along with inner and outdoor seating. The team at Ullswater Steamers can also recommend local caterers who are welcome to join the boat to provide catering for your event.
The Lady Dorothy is the smallest vessel in operation, with a capacity of just 63. Perfect for a private charter!
Ullswater Steamers host special calender of events throughout the seasons, adding something different to your holiday, whatever time of year!
Amongst our favourites is the Fish & Chip Supper Cruise. This two hour Summer evening cruise does what it says on the tin. Indulge in a hearty fish and chip supper and enjoy an evening of fantastic live music entertainment.
The Summer Gin Tasting Cruise is always a hit with the adults! A two hour cruise departing from Pooley Bridge, here you can sample the botanicals of Solway Spirits, Bedrock Gin and the Shed 1 Distillery to name a few.
There are countless walks leading along the shores of Ullswater, sure to suit a range of different abilities. The seven mile adventure of the Howtown to Glendridding walk is amongst our favourites, and was much-loved by Alfred Wainwright.
The route begins in the charming hamlet of Howtown, sitting on the southern ‘kink’ of Ullswater. Running along the southern shoreline, this route can only be explored by boat or foot, adding to its mystic tranquillity.
The Ullswater Way walking trail stretches 6.6 miles in length before concluding in Glenridding, where you can board a steamer back to the starting point.
You’ll traverse through towering woodlands and open moorland along the way, with the route rewarding walkers with far-reaching views across the glistening waters to the dramatic peaks of Hellvellyn.
A relatively easy walk, the Howtown to Glendridding trail is ideal for getting the little ones out and about exploring.
If you’re looking for more things to do near Ullswater, you’ll also find plenty of wonderful walking trails nearby.
The journey begins with an Ullswater ‘Steamer’ to Howtown Pier. From here, the trail 6.6 mile trail begins. Check the Ullswater steamer departure timetable here.
If you’re travelling by car, we’d recommend parking close to Glenridding Pier and boarding a Steamer to Howtown Pier. This way, you’ll end the route right where you left the car!
However familiar you are to an area, we always recommend using a map to guide your journey.
The Lake District National Park provide a handy map of Ullswater here, outlining the Howtown to Glenridding walk.
Mobile signal can be tempremental in more rural areas, so don’t rely on your phone GPS. Print off the map and keep it in a safe place.
In any case of emergency, call 999 and ask for Police and Mountain Rescue.
Although the Howtown and Glenridding Walk is relatively easy, it’s important to consider footwear. Flat, sensible and comfortable shoes are important.
Waterproof and weatherproof clothing is equally as important, as we’re not short of rainy days here in the Lakes! Don’t forget to check the weather before setting out!
Make up a little first aid box, just in case anyone takes a tumble, and ensure your mobile phone is fully charged in case of emergencies.
It’s important to pack water and snacks for your walk to ensure that you don’t get caught short in these rural areas. There’s plenty of picnic spots dotted along the trail, so you can enjoy a pit-stop and make the most of your peaceful surroundings.
Nearby, the Howtown Hotel serves a delicious menu of light lunches to non-residents. Only a few minutes from the pier, we’d recommend stopping here to refuel on your return!
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Sitting within The Glenridding Hotel, The Ratchers Bar serves a hearty menu of traditional pub classics, sure to appease any tired walker! There’s also a scenic beer garden, open from 3pm in Winter and midday in Summer, perfect for enjoying a crisp pint. Pets are welcome in the beer garden.
Nearby is the Kilners Coffee Shop, open from 10am daily. Here you can warm up with a hot drink or indulge in a decadent slice of cake. There’s also WiFi available for those looking to reconnect with the outside world!
One spring day in 1802, literary master William Wordsworth strolled along the banks of Ullswater on his return from Pooley Bridge.
It is said that Wordworth was so inspired by the daffodils that decorated the shores that he wrote one of the most famous poems in English literature, “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.”
“Loveliest spot that man has found” – William Wordsworth on Ullswater.
Glencoyne Bay, known locally as Wordsworth Point, is one of the most wonderful things to do around Ullswater. This one is a must for any literary enthusiasts.
Owned by the National Trust, you can walk in the footsteps of Wordsworth himself at this small strip of pebbled and grassy land.
In his words, you’ll be greeted by ” a host, of golden daffodils; beside the lake, beneath the trees, fluttering and dancing in the breeze.”
As well as the daffodils, look for the first wood cranesbill, or purple woodland geranium. From June to September, keep your eye out for pink purslane flowers and bracket fungus growing on the tree trunks.
If you’re visiting between June and August, you might even catch sight of the carnivorous round-leaved sundew!
As described in ‘I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud’, the charm of Ullswater is different throughout the seasons.
On a spring day, the water can be choppy, with waves that dance. The beauty of the surrounding woods may even out-do the lake itself.
When visiting on a Summers morning, the calm waters mirror the picturesque landscape, distorting it slightly and giving Ullswater a somewhat other-worldly feel – just magical!
And in Winter, the falls cascading into Ullswater take on a force of their own, alluding to the glacial powers that first created Ullswater some 12 thousand years ago.
A truly idyllic spot, if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle, be sure to add this one to your itinerary of things to do in Ullswater.
Whilst you’re in the area, we’d recommend the Glencoyne Bay to Aira Force walk. One of our favourite things to do around Ullswater, this walk will suit the avid ramblers amongst you.
This 2-mile walk begins at Glencoyne Bay Car Park, passing through the Glencoyne Deer Park toward Aira Force Waterfall. Here, milky-white waters cascade down the rockface, providing a truly breath-taking backdrop for any photo opp!
If you’re wanting to get your steps in, you can even start the trail off-road from Glenridding, linking up with the path from Glencoyne Car Park along the way.
One of the most photogenic spots of natural beauty in the Lake District, a visit to Aira Force is a must on our list of things to do in Ullswater.
A stone’s throw from the village of Watermillock, off the western side of Ullswater, the cascading waterfall of Aira Force hides deep within the trees.
Tumbling an impressive 65ft from a stone footbridge, Aira Force is surrounded by many off-road footpaths, providing the perfect day out for all.
The falls find themselves a short half mile from the car park, so you don’t need to be a seasoned walker to add this one to your list of things to do in Ullswater. The steps and footpaths are well surfaced, however there are several steep climbs in places.
Perhaps better kept for a rainy day, the wetter the better for a visit to Aira Force. When the heavens open, you’re more likely to catch the cascading falls in their full force! If you’re lucky enough, you might catch sight of the iconic Aira Rainbow during your visit!
The waterfall is part of a designed ‘pleasure garden’ which surrounds the Lyulph’s Tower hunting lodge. Sitting on the shoreline, the estate is owned and landscaped by the Howard family of Greystock Castle.
A bridge was built at the top and bottom of the dramatic waterfall, allowing onlookers to fully enjoy the spectacle. Along with this, the Victorian landscaped ‘pleasure garden’ includes an arboretum as well as a trail of paths, walks and footbridges.
For a unique touch, look out for the ‘wish tree’ hidden along the trail at Aira Force. Here, you can hammer coins into a fallen tree trunk as you make a wish in this truly magical part of the Lake District!
Wondering what to do in Ullswater when the weather isn’t on your side? A visit to the Rheged Centre is one of the most popular things to do in Ullswater! With a gallery, cafe, countless shops and a cinema all under one roof, you wont be short of things to do here.
Take a break from the endless outdoor pursuits available in the Lake District and enjoy a spot of retail therapy at Europes largest grass-covered building. Here you can shop boutique and designer brands including The White Stuff, Tutti, Seasalt and Camper, along with a range of quality outdoor clothing brands.
Brimming with local and ethical clothing, homewear and lifestyle produce, you’re sure to find something to take home! There’s even an exciting toy shop where you can keep the little ones entertained with Lego, books and puzzles.
After working up an appetitie, you can indulge in a bite to eat at the on-site cafe. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the cafe serves the very best of fresh and seasonal produce sourced from local producers.
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The sample menus include bacon and egg butties, sourdough pizzas, soups and salads. Children can choose from pizza, burgers and hot dogs to name a few.
If you’re keen to get back out onto the fells, there’s also a mouth-watering deli where you can pick up sandwiches, cakes and bakes to-go. Warm up ahead of your adventure with a speciality coffee by Carvetii, or enjoy an English Lakes ice cream.
Breakfast Sample Menu 🡭
Lunch Sample Menu 🡭
Evening Sample Menu 🡭
Childrens Sample Menu 🡭
If the weather isn’t on your side, the two screen 3D box office cinema is the perfect place to while away a few hours. Showing the lastest Blockbuster hits along with live-streams of opera, ballet and musical performances, this is a cinema with a twist!
There’s lots for kids to do at the Rheged Centre, with a fabulous indoor play area and crafty ‘Making Space’.
Let the kids burn off some steam in a maze of tunnels, tents and slides at the indoor play area. There’s also a dedicated zone for children under 5 to ensure safety and enjoyment for all!
For the older kids, you can your own papier mache décopatch model to take home at the ‘Making Space’ craft centre!
Yes, wild swimming is allowed in Ullswater, and stretching over seven miles, Ullswater is an extremely popular spot with swimmers. Despite its excellent water quality, please keep in mind that swimming in open bodies of water can be dangerous. Take precautions when swimming in Ullswater to ensure your safety.
There are many villages scattered along the shores of Ullswater. Pooley Bridge sits at the northern tip of the lake and Glenridding sits at the southern end. Other villages include Howtown, Patterdale and Watermillock.
Silver Bay, on the southern edge of the lake, is considered Ullswaters “secret beach”. Hidden at the foot of Silver Crag, this pebble beach provides direct access to the lake. Paired with a backdrop of mountainous greenery, you wont find a better spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the lakeside.
You’ll find parking scattered around the perimiter of Ullswater. Off-road parking is available in the villages of Pooley Bridge and Glenridding, at either end of the lake. There’s also parking available at Aira Force Car Park and Glencoyne Bay Car Park, along with some roadside parking along the A592.
Fancy trying some of these things to do in Ullswater for yourself? Browse our fantastic range of Ullswater cottages and find your perfect holiday home today! With many more rural delights to be explored, we’ve got a Lake Distrtict cottage to suit everyone.
For more inspiration on how to spend your time, give our guide on the best walks in the Lake District a read!
Images courtesy of: David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0)
This blog has been updated based on original content written by Lakelovers
Hello, I'm Lizi, and I joined the team in May 2021. My favourite staycation destinations include Cornwall, Northumberland, and as ...
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