We have just returned from a fabulous weekend exploring Ullswater. The kids have gone to bed with weathered cheeks, sand in their hair and I have just emptied the water and pebbles out of their wellies. Definitely a sign of a successful and fun weekend, don’t you think?
We arrived in Ullswater on Friday night and set up our camp in a nearby campsite over looking the stunning lake. Saturday morning we walked into Pooley Bridge for a stroll and a wander around before heading off to take a ride on an Ullswater Steamer. We have heard so much about this attraction and I have to say I had high expectations. With a 6 year old, 3 year old and a lively 9 month old in tow I was interested to see just how relaxing the ride would be…..
Ullswater ‘Steamers’
Ullswater ‘Steamers’ is an award winning attraction in the Lake District, that is celebrating over 150 years of operating cruises on Ullswater. The ‘Steamers’ operate all year round with varying timetable connections between Glenridding, Howtown and Pooley Bridge piers. With varying cruise times from 20 – 120 minutes, it gives you the perfect opportunity to sit back, relax, and take in the spectacular view.
We took the trip with our friends, and with a double pushchair, single pushchair and a baby carrier I was amazed that the boat was easily accessible via a ramp, and there was ample space for us all. It was a really windy day but we sat on the upper deck to take in the spectacular view!
Top Tip! – Make sure you have warm clothing and jumpers, and a blanket for the little ones as it was a particularly breezy day and did get cool.
The Steamer took us from Pooley Bridge to Howtown, however we didn’t stop off here as we decided to continue onwards to Glenridding. The journey time was approximately 65 minutes one way, which was just enough for the (very excited) little ones.
Glenridding is a small village at the southern end of Ullswater. It is a lovely little place to visit, with a selection of pubs, cafes and a local store. We walked around for a little explore, purchased some snacks and fishing nets for the little ones, and then spent a couple of hours sitting at the water’s edge taking in the spectacular view, with a picnic, a snoozing baby, and soon to be very wet kids!
Facilities
There is a selection of tea, coffee and light refreshments onboard all vessels, and a fully licensed bar. Each vessel also has a toilet, and bikes are permitted except on Lady Dorothy. Dogs are also permitted.
Prices
Please check the website for fares and timetables
Glenridding and Pooley Bridge Round the Lake Pass – Adult – £14.20, Child- £7.10, Family-£36.50
Family Ticket is for 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult with 3 children (children 5-15 years old inclusive).
Children under 5 travel free.
Round the lake pass qualifies for a 50% voucher towards a great day out with our sister attraction – the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway.
Our Verdict.
We had a wonderful day out with Ullswater ‘Steamers’ The vessels are beautiful, the staff keen to assist if needed and the scenery spectacular. The kids thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and even sat still for the majority of the journey, and my littlest man managed to have a snooze during the ride. Our picnic in Glenridding was one of those travel moments that I will remember for quite sometime – I will smile at the memory of heading back to Pooley Bridge with soaked children who just couldn’t keep out of the water…..
Next time I will remember to pack those spare clothes…….!!
For more information head over to www.golakes.co.uk
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**Disclosure – we were given complimentary passes to Ullswater Steamers byCumbria Tourism . All views and opinions are of my own and my family.**
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