Ullswater: A Lake District Escape for the Soul

Ullswater is many people’s favourite lake. The name Ullswater is possibly because the lake is situated among mountains. In ancient Saxon, ‘hul’ signified a mountain.

However, it is more likely that the name came from the Celtic ‘Ulle’, meaning the bend or elbow.

Nonetheless, Ullswater is the Lake District’s second-largest lake and has a beauty all of its own. It is a very popular area for outdoor activities.

In fact, Ullswater is often cited as being the most beautiful of all the lakes in the Lake District.

Ullswater is a fine example of a ribbon lake – i.e, one created by the movement of a glacier.

It is 9 miles long by 0.75 miles wide and less than 200 feet deep at its deepest point.

The lower reaches of the lake (around Howtown) are a very popular venue for water sports enthusiasts.

Ullswater Steamers

Ullswater Steamers celebrate over 160 years of continuous service and operate one of the largest heritage boat fleets in the world.

Gliding across the shimmering waters of Ullswater, these iconic vessels offer a truly unmissable experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re stepping aboard for a leisurely cruise or using the service to hop between the lake’s picturesque piers, travelling on the Ullswater Steamers is one of the most enjoyable ways to take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding fells.

From the water, you’ll be treated to spectacular views that simply can’t be matched from the shoreline.

The steamers call at three piers — Glenridding, Howtown, and Pooley Bridge — making them a practical as well as a pleasurable way to explore this stunning corner of the Lake District.

A popular choice is to sail from Glenridding to Howtown and then walk back along the renowned Ullswater Way, combining the best of the lake and the fells in a single unforgettable day out.

Kents Bank Holiday Cottage makes the perfect base for your Ullswater adventure. With easy access to the southern Lake District and beyond, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of this magical region.

Fishing in Ullswater is free; a rod licence is all you’ll need.

There are perch, pike, and schelley, which are endangered and protected whitefish relics from the last ice age.

However, the only serious fishing is for brown trout.

Donald Campbell

In 1955, Donald Campbell used the lake to set the world speed record in his jet-powered boat, Bluebird.

Ullswater was again used in WW2 to test mini-submarines and flying boats.

The unrivalled beauty of Ullswater has provided a scenic backdrop for centuries.

William Wordsworth found inspiration for his poem ‘I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud’ on April 15^th 1802, whilst walking with his sister Dorothy along the lake shore from Aira Beck to Glencoyne.

Glencoyne Bay is a peaceful place and a popular beach where canoes can be launched into Ullswater. The relatively shallow and calm water makes it an ideal place for those less confident in the water.

As a visitor destination, Ullswater offers two different options – Patterdale and Glenridding. If you want to explore the mountains and have access to water sports, then Glenridding and Patterdale are perfect.

In 2000, a new pier house was built at Glenridding, followed by renovation at the Pooley Bridge Pier offices the following year.

If you fancy trying canoeing, you can rent them from Glenridding Sailing Centre.

If you like hiking, there is a 20-mile circular walk around this magnificent body of Lakeland water, the Ullswater Way circumnavigates the lake.

You can use boat trips to shorten the walk, too.

Patterdale

Patterdale can be found at the southern end, and Pooley Bridge can be found to the north.

Penrith is the nearest market town, 10 miles away.

If you are looking for panoramic views of Ullswater, take a walk up Hallin Fell.

From Howtown, follow the signs for Martindale Church. The walk will take around 45 minutes, and once at the top, you will find incredible views all along Ullswater and beyond.

If you are looking for a Lake District Holiday Cottage within easy reach of Ullswater, look no further. Ring 07785944194 or Enquire here.

How to Book Kents Bank Holiday cottage in Grange-over-Sands

Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage is quick and simple. Just visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or give us a call at 07785944194. We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect dates for your stay. Our friendly team makes the whole process easy, so you can focus on your relaxing holiday near Cartmel, and Grange-over-Sands.

Key Takeaways

1) Ullswater is one of the Lake District’s most beautiful lakes

2) Often considered the most scenic lake in the area, Ullswater combines dramatic mountain views with peaceful shoreline spots, making it a favourite for visitors seeking natural beauty.

3) A perfect destination for outdoor activities

4) From water sports and canoeing to the 20-mile Ullswater Way walk, the lake offers something for everyone—whether you prefer adventure or a gentle lakeside stroll.

5) Ullswater Steamers offer a unique way to explore. A trip on the historic Ullswater Steamers is one of the best ways to experience the lake, with stunning views and easy access between Glenridding, Howtown, and Pooley Bridge.

6) Rich history and literary inspiration

Ullswater has a fascinating past—from Donald Campbell’s world speed record attempts to its role in WWII testing—and even inspired William Wordsworth’s famous poem I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.

7) Ideal base locations for exploring the area

Glenridding and Patterdale are perfect for walking and water activities, while nearby viewpoints like Hallin Fell offer breathtaking panoramic views across the lake.