Visiting Ullswater
Head to Ullswater and you’ll find the second largest lake in England. Surrounded by striking mountain scenery, it really is picture perfect. The small village of Glenridding is located at the southern end of Ullswater and is especially popular with those climbing Helvellyn as it makes a great starting point. At the opposite end of Ullswater is Pooley Bridge – a tiny village with plenty of charm.
Exploring Ullswater
Ullswater is extremely popular amongst those who love to explore the outdoors. Here you can hike Helvellyn, arguably the nation’s favourite mountain, or explore the smaller hills which surround Ullswater directly. You also have over seven miles of lake to discover either by kayak or canoe whilst enjoying the tranquility and peace of the water. If you are interested in fishing, you can fish Ullswater from the shores of Another Place on the lake’s quarter of a mile lake frontage.
The incredible scenery and relative underdevelopment compared to the other areas of the Lake District gives Ullswater a wonderful tranquil and secluded feel, making it the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of day to day life.
Things to do in Ullswater
The lake has many attractions including the Ullswater Steamers, offering scenic tours across the lake. You can also enjoy the Aira Force waterfall, an impressive 65 foot waterfall with a network of trails weaving away from Ullswater Lake Shore just waiting to be explored by you.
You and the family can also take part in a number of watersport and lakeside activities. From paddleboarding to axe throwing, there is an activity fit for everyone! Explore these thrilling activities here for an experience you will never forget.
Ullswater’s Culture and Heritage
The high ground around Ullswater is rich in prehistoric remains! Stone circles have been found on Barton Fell, which are dated back to the Neolithic period (2500-1500BC)! Several routes across the fells also converge here, suggesting that this was an ancient trade route and settlement site.
A paved route was also left behind by The Romans to link their forts at Brougham and Ambleside. A fort can also be found on top of Dunmallard Hill which boasts incredible views of the lake below, with another fort 2 miles west of here at Maiden Castle. These settlements and forts suggest that Ullswater was a busy spot, with plenty of food to go around, including fish from the lake.
Ullswater has also been an inspiration for many writers and artists, including William Wordsworth who wrote a poem about the lake titled “To the River Duddon” and painted a picture of Ullswater, which is now on display at the Wordsworth Museum in Grasmere.