Ullswater

Some say it’s the most beautiful lake in England and I’d have to agree. Recommend the Ullswater Way walk that goes around the lake to see it in all its glory else get out there on the lake - At 20 mile long it’s a bit of a slog but can do in part and get a bus or even boat back.

Such a beautiful lake and area the best in the lake district in my view, we were lucky and had the most beautiful weather we took the steamer to aria water falls just lovely

Ullswater is nature at the best — a mirror of silver and sapphire cradled between rolling green fells and rugged mountain slopes. The water shimmers differently with every shift of the sky, sometimes glassy and still, sometimes dancing with ripples that catch the sun like scattered jewels. kayaks and paddleboards are easy to rent, letting you drift across the lake’s calm expanse with the peaks standing sentinel all around you. Camping nearby is also possible. Ullswater isn’t just scenic — it’s a living postcard of the Lake District, where land, water, and sky weave together into something unforgettable.

Amazing locations near the lake for camping or sightseeing. A start point for loads of great hikes

The most beautiful lake. Spent hours here paddle boarding. Shallow parts perfect for children. I will return here time and time again. This place has my heart ❤️

The water level was so low you could see where the village used to be, we walked on one of the old roads and could see a wall rising out of the water. Amazing

Ullswater is a magnificent glacial lake located in the heart of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. It holds the distinction of being the second largest lake in the region, both by area and volume, after Windermere. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, ranging from the dramatic mountain scenery at its southern end, where England's third-highest mountain, Helvellyn, stands proudly, to the gentler rolling hills in the north around Pooley Bridge. This diverse topography makes it a popular destination for walkers of all abilities. Ullswater has long been a source of inspiration for artists and poets, including William Wordsworth, who famously wrote about the daffodils on its shores. Its picturesque beauty continues to draw visitors seeking tranquility and natural splendor. The lake offers a wide array of recreational activities, making it a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular pursuits include sailing, kayaking, canoeing, wild swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing. The Ullswater 'Steamers' offer scenic boat cruises, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding fells. Important villages on its shores include Glenridding, a popular starting point for hikers tackling Helvellyn, and Pooley Bridge, located at the northern end. The iconic Aira Force waterfall, a series of stunning cascades, is also a must-visit attraction near the lake. Ullswater is not just a natural wonder but also a significant ecological site, classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve. It's home to various fish species, including the endemic Schelly.

Beautiful lake. Never found it to be too busy, even when visiting nearby Aira Force. We pulled up in lay-bys and spent evenings down by the lake as it got dark. Saw lots of bats and heard owls calling to each other from across the lake. A magical place!!