Description
Ullswater Steamers offers scenic lake cruises on Ullswater in the heart of the Lake District, with over 160 years of cruising history. It provides one of the most iconic ways to experience the dramatic mountain and lakeside scenery of the region. The attraction operates 363 days a year using one of the world’s largest heritage boat fleets.
Visitors can enjoy scenic lake cruises, 75-minute circular cruises, and one-way walker cruises connecting the four Ullswater piers. Activities include combining cruises with famous walking routes such as the Ullswater Way, Wordsworth Way, Eamont Way, woodland and waterfall walks at Aira Force, and circular walks from Glenridding, Howtown, and Pooley Bridge. Onboard facilities include open and covered decks, licensed bars, toilets, and access to special themed cruise events such as photography cruises and evening sailings.
A 75-minute Scenic Cruise costs £17.50 for adults, £12.00 for children (3–17), free for under 3s, £51.50 for a family (2 adults + 2 children), and £1 per dog. A One-Way Walker Cruise costs £12.50 for adults, £8.00 for children (3–17), free for under 3s, with dogs charged at £1. The Steamers also offer private charter and celebration cruises for birthdays and special occasions, with details available on the website.
Overall, Ullswater Steamers provides a relaxed and memorable way to explore the Lake District. It combines sightseeing, walking, and unique on-water experiences in a stunning natural setting. This attraction is ideal for families, walkers, couples, and anyone wanting to see Ullswater from a truly special perspective.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: Yes
Features
Walking
- Ullswater Way Heritage Trail: The Ullswater Way Heritage Trail has been inspired by the heritage trust, Friends of the Ullswater Way, who have worked with local artists and craftspeople to create a series of installations around Ullswater. Each installation celebrates an aspect of the Ullswater Valley’s heritage in harmony with the natural Lake District surroundings. Look out for the Poetry Stones, Dorothy Gate, Wainwright Sitting Stone, Roman Seat and many more.
- Walking around Ullswater between our piers: The waymarked Ullswater Way is a 20-mile round the lake footpath linking all four of Ullswater ‘Steamers’ piers. The route can be walked from any starting point, in either direction, and is often divided up into shorter sections. These sections can be found below and offer the perfect opportunity to combine your walk with a trip on an open-top bus or a ‘Steamer’.
- Circular walks from Glenridding: The short circular walk up to Lanty’s Tarn from Glenridding is incredibly rewarding and offers wonderful views of the Ullswater Valley, as well as a glimpse of Helvellyn (the third highest mountain in the Lake District and England) upon descent. This route offers a sense of peace and serenity and is a great way to experience some of the best that Glenridding and Patterdale have to offer, without taking all day!
- Circular walks from Howtown: Often referred to as the gateway to the Martindale valley, Howtown is a beautifully secluded area that is a walker’s paradise, with access to several stunning walking routes suitable for all levels of walker. The circular walk up Hallin Fell from Howtown provides stunning views toward both ends of the lake and is easily accessible from our pier.
- Circular walks from Pooley Bridge: The beautiful village of Pooley Bridge sits on the northern shore of Ullswater and has a wide selection of walking routes to choose from. Those looking for a quick stroll may opt for the circular walk up Dunmallard Hill, a 30-minute forest trail up the distinctive hill that sits above our pier.
- Walks around Aira Force waterfalls: Whether you choose the circular route around the waterfall or a visit to Glencoyne Bay to see Wordsworth’s daffodils, Aira Force and the surrounding area play host to some of the most beautiful and historic routes in the valley.
- The Eamont Way: A NEW walking route from Penrith Railway Station to Pooley Bridge Ullswater ‘Steamers’ pier. Leave the car behind, forget the bus or taxi, and follow this 5.5-mile scenic path, following the course of the River Eamont. Expect plenty of glorious scenery! Explore the pretty village of Pooley Bridge before hopping aboard a ‘Steamer’ and heading south to Aira Force or Glenridding where you’ll find a famous waterfall and spectacular mountain range.
- The Wordsworth Way: 14 mile signed footpath; illuminating the life of our celebrated romantic poet, William Wordsworth, his family circle and friends; in the lands where they famously lived, strode and strived. Starting out from the shore of Lake Ullswater at Glenridding, the Wordsworth Way climbs the peaceful Grisedale valley, to reach the Parting Stone at the outflow of Grisedale Tarn. Then descending toward Grasmere, Allan Bank, St Oswald’s Church and Cemetery and the famous Dove Cottage – from where some of his finest poetry was crafted and finely honed.
Lake District Cruise Events – Special Ullswater Lake Cruises and Experiences
- Are you looking for unique things to do in the Lake District? Our Lake District cruise events offer unforgettable experiences on the water, combining spectacular Ullswater Valley scenery with themed sailings throughout the year.
- From our Dawn Photography Cruise to relaxed evening cruises with fish and chips, these enjoyable events transform a classic lake cruise into something truly memorable.
- Set against the dramatic landscape of Ullswater, these limited-date sailings are ideal for visitors planning a Lake District break, couples seeking something special, families looking for a standout day out, or anyone wanting to experience the Lakes from a different perspective.
19.99 miles
