Ullswater is a truly wonderful place to visit and our Ullswater cottages are the perfect base from which to explore the area. Although the lake itself is the main attraction, a place to while away the days sailing, canoeing or taking a relaxing trip on the steamers, the surrounding fells and woodlands provide plenty of challenges for those serious about walking.
Walking
Elm How and Cruck Barn lie adjacent to one of the footpaths onto Helvellyn and Fairfield. Eagle Cottage lies on another. So pull on your walking boots and head for the fells. This is amazing walking territory.
If you are planning on heading into the Lake District Fells surrounding Ullswater, we do recommend that you use an Ordnance Survey Landranger Map, and always take suitable clothing and waterproofs, even if it is fine. The weather can quickly change.
Here are just a few sites to visit if you need some inspiration:
https://www.davidhalllakedistrictwalks.co.uk/
https://www.lakedistrictwalks.com/
https://www.10adventures.com/hikes/lake-district-national-park/
We also offer private guided walks from Cruck Barn and Elm How, as well as from Eagle Cottage. For more information, keep an eye on our blog pages where we often include information about our favourite walks.
Boating
Considered by many to be one of England's most beautiful lakes, Ullswater offers a host of options when it comes to enjoying the water. A great way to experience the lake and the surrounding landscape is to take a trip on one of the Ullswater Steamers, one of the largest heritage boat fleets in the world.
Or try exploring the lake under your own steam. You can sail, kayak, canoe or even stand-up paddleboard. Self-drive options are also available. St Patrick's Boat Landing is located between Patterdale and Glenridding and offers motor boat and rowing boat hire.
We also offer a range of Lake Adventures which can be arranged to suit all ages and abilities. From half day canoe trips to full expeditions, or just a day of fun games in a kayak, we will be able to tailor the day to suit you.
For more information, please get in touch. Call 015394 45756 or visit our Customise Your Stay pages.
Adventure
For those looking for something a little more adrenalin-fuelled, our adventure partners offer a number of options, including ghyll scrambling, climbing and mountain biking.
We've also included some links below to some local providers.
Mountain Biking in the Whinlatter Forest
Eating and Drinking
There are plenty of fantastic places to eat in the villages and towns surrounding Ullswater. Visit the villages of Glenridding, Patterdale and Pooley Bridge, or venture further afield to Penrith or Keswick and you'll find something to suit every palate, from traditional Lakeland inns to boutique sandwich shops, tasty fish and chips to Michelin Star dining.
If you need some inspiration, check our blog pages where we regularly post about our favourite places to eat and drink near Ullswater.
Local Attractions
It's easy to see why Ullswater and the surrounding area draws such a crowd. It is absolutely stunning. But nowadays the area offers far more than the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. You can take a walk up to Aira Force, arguably the best known waterfall in the Lake District; go on a journey of graphite and pencil discovery at the Derwent Pencil Museum; or enjoy a fun-packed day of activities at the Rheged Centre in Penrith.
We've included a few links below to some of our favourite local attractions.
If you have something particular in mind and it's not on this list, please do get in touch. We are more than happy to help.
