Ullswater Steamers
Glide across the Lake District's second-largest lake on historic steamers, connecting charming villages and accessing stunning hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Ullswater Steamers
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Glide across the Lake District's second-largest lake on historic steamers, connecting charming villages and accessing stunning hikes.
"A wonderful way to see Ullswater, with fabulous cruises and reasonable pricing."
🚢 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and preferred sailing time by booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring villages and any hikes you plan after your cruise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Cruise on Ullswater
Lake Ullswater
Glide across the Lake District's second-largest lake on historic steamers, soaking in breathtaking mountain and valley views.
Glenridding Village Charm
Glenridding Pier
Explore this picturesque village at the foot of Helvellyn, with pubs, cafes, and access to stunning hikes.
Aira Force Waterfall
Aira Force Pier
Disembark for a short walk to the impressive Aira Force waterfall, a beautiful natural spectacle.
Pooley Bridge Lakeside
Pooley Bridge Pier
Enjoy flat lakeside walks and the charming village atmosphere of Pooley Bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Dress for Lake District Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and preferred sailing time by booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring villages and any hikes you plan after your cruise.
🧥 Layer Up!
Lake District weather is unpredictable; bring layers for comfort on the water.
🗺️ Check Timetables
Plan your journey carefully, noting connection times if you're hopping between piers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and preferred sailing time by booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring villages and any hikes you plan after your cruise.
🧥 Layer Up!
Lake District weather is unpredictable; bring layers for comfort on the water.
🗺️ Check Timetables
Plan your journey carefully, noting connection times if you're hopping between piers.
☕ Enjoy Onboard Amenities
Many steamers offer drinks and have toilets, making for a comfortable journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning scenery and the enjoyable experience of cruising on Ullswater. The historic steamers, friendly crew, and reasonable pricing are frequently highlighted as positives. Some minor issues with signage or ticket confusion were noted, but overall, the trip is highly recommended as a wonderful way to see the Lake District.
"Visited with my wife whilst on holiday.
We boarded at Pooley Bridge with return tickets to Glenridding. There is no car park at the pier, but Pooley Bridge had 2 public car parks we saw whilst there. A short walk from car to pier should take no more than 5/10 minutes max.
The lady who sold our tickets helpfully included a timetable and highlighted the relevant times for connections & final sailings.
The water crossing itself was seamless. The view across Ullswater are stunning with great hills rising up on each side. Boarding & alighting were simple affairs.
There was a decent amount of spacd on both ships we rode on and led to an enjoyable day out."
Daniel Wheeler
"A lovely experience. We had a little mishap with the tickets and the crew was very helpful in sorting things out. The cruise itself is fabulous and the pricing was reasonable. The scenery is as great as you would expected from Ullswater. The boat was in great condition and the captain has great humour which I’ll be honest, brighten up the mood even with the slightly gloomy weather. The crews were also very friendly and helpful as well."
Meizhu Chuang
"A wonderful way to see Ullswater. We did a return from Glenridding to Pooley Bridge and got lucky with sunny weather in one direction at least. Also got to see some great low altitude fighter jet fly-bys over the lake. The boats are very pretty and well equipped, including toilets, a bar, and good amount of seating inside and outside.
They have their own car park right by the boats (£6 for 3 hours) and electric car owners there are two 22kw chargers which were easy to use and reliable."
Max Lawson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ullswater Steamers operate from multiple piers, including Glenridding, Pooley Bridge, Aira Force, and Howtown. Glenridding is a popular starting point and is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options like buses also serve the area.
Parking availability varies by pier. Pooley Bridge has public car parks a short walk away. Glenridding has its own car park (£6 for 3 hours) with electric car chargers.
Yes, bus services operate to villages like Glenridding and Pooley Bridge, connecting them to other parts of the Lake District. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules.
Glenridding is a well-connected village. You can drive there, and it's also served by local bus routes, making it an accessible starting point for your steamer trip. +1
Pooley Bridge is accessible by car, with several public car parks. It's also reachable by bus, offering a scenic approach to the lake.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the route and type of ticket (e.g., single, return). Prices start from around £8 for shorter trips. It's best to check the official Ullswater Steamers website for current pricing and booking options.
Yes, you can usually purchase tickets on the day at the pier. However, booking online in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to guarantee your preferred sailing.
Information on specific discounts like NHS discounts is not widely publicized. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire directly for any available offers or family packages.
The steamers operate on a timetable that varies seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Ullswater Steamers website for the most up-to-date sailing times and routes before your visit.
Discount voucher availability can change. Keep an eye on the official website or local tourism sites for any promotions that might be running.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The 'best' route depends on your interests. A popular choice is the return trip between Glenridding and Pooley Bridge for stunning lake views. You can also hop off at Aira Force for the waterfall or Howtown for quieter exploration. 
A full return trip between Pooley Bridge and Glenridding takes just over an hour. Shorter trips to specific piers, like Aira Force, are also available.
At Glenridding, you can explore the village, enjoy cafes and pubs, and it's a great starting point for hiking, including the popular route up Helvellyn. +1
Yes, Aira Force pier is the gateway to the beautiful Aira Force waterfall, accessible via a short, scenic walk.
Generally, well-behaved dogs are welcome on the Ullswater Steamers, but it's always best to confirm their specific policy when booking or before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cruise offers fantastic photo opportunities! Capture the majestic fells rising from the water, the charming piers, and the historic steamers themselves. Early morning or late afternoon light can be particularly magical.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic light and fewer crowds. Midday can be bright, but the reflections on the water are still stunning. Consider the direction of the sun for your chosen route. +1
Drone usage is subject to regulations and permissions. Always check local bylaws and the national park guidelines before flying a drone in the Lake District.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the lake and surrounding mountains, close-ups of the steamer's historic features, and candid shots of fellow passengers enjoying the scenery.
The journey itself is the viewpoint! However, disembarking at piers like Glenridding or Pooley Bridge allows for ground-level shots of the lake and village.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the villages offer playgrounds or open spaces for kids to run around. The gentle nature of the lake cruises means it's a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. Remember to dress in layers, as the weather can be changeable, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for any short walks.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Consider purchasing a circular ticket that incorporates a boat trip and a walk, or simply use the steamers as a convenient shuttle service. The ability to hop on and off at various piers opens up a world of walking possibilities around the lake and into the surrounding fells.
📸 Photographers
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light, and consider the direction of the sun when planning your route. Disembarking at piers like Glenridding or Pooley Bridge allows for ground-level shots of the lake and villages, while the cruise itself provides panoramic views. Don't forget to capture the details of the steamers – their classic design is very photogenic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Piers and Villages
Each pier serves as a gateway to the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for challenging hikes or gentle strolls, the steamer routes provide convenient access. Remember to check the timetable to plan your hopping on and off effectively, ensuring you don't miss your connection.
Many visitors combine a steamer trip with a walk. For instance, a popular option is to take the steamer to Aira Force, walk to the waterfall, and then catch a later steamer back, or even hike part of the way.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
For a less strenuous but equally beautiful experience, consider the walk to Aira Force waterfall. This is easily accessible from the Aira Force pier and is a popular choice for families and those seeking a shorter excursion.
Many TikTok creators showcase the stunning hiking opportunities around Ullswater, often starting or ending their adventures with a scenic boat trip.
The Historic Ullswater Steamers
Cruising on these boats offers a unique perspective on the Lake District's landscape, a journey that has been enjoyed for generations. Each steamer is well-maintained and equipped with amenities like toilets and a bar, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers.
+1Visitors often praise the condition of the boats and the overall experience, highlighting the blend of historical charm and modern comfort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit