Ullswater
The second-largest lake in the Lake District, often hailed as one of England’s most beautiful lakes. A historic steamer cruise combined with a lakeside path is a classic outing.
Ullswater is zigzag-shaped and about 14.5 km long. Its hillsides rise and fall on both sides, and it is quieter and more unspoiled than Windermere. The century-old boats of Ullswater Steamers run between Glenridding at the southern end, Howtown and Pooley Bridge at the northern end. The most popular outing is to take the boat to Howtown and then walk back to Glenridding along the lakeshore path. The walk is about 11 km and takes 3 to 4 hours, and it has been rated one of Britain’s best walking routes. On the western shore, Aira Force is a waterfall about 20 m high, reached by a woodland trail, and it takes about an hour to explore. Wordsworth’s famous poem “Daffodils” was written after he and his sister came across a large field of wild daffodils by the lake. From Penrith station, it takes about 40 minutes by bus.
Opening hours
Open all day; boats approx. 09:45–17:00 (fewer in winter)
Nearby sights
- Aira Force
- Lowther Castle & Gardens
- Helvellyn
- Rydal Mount
- Ambleside
- Grasmere & Dove Cottage
- Wray Castle
- The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction