The Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise from Glenridding Pier offers a truly captivating journey through the heart of the region’s natural splendor. Priced at £24.50 per person, this 2-hour scenic cruise provides visitors with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and the chance to spot local wildlife. With flexible booking options and onboard refreshments, the cruise is an unforgettable way to take in the serene beauty of the Lake District. But what makes this cruise truly unique is the opportunity to explore the Ullswater Way and discover the charming town of Pooley Bridge along the way.

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Key Points

Departs from Glenridding Pier, offering a 2-hour return cruise exploring the scenic Ullswater Lake in the Lake District National Park.
Provides panoramic mountain and countryside views, with opportunities to spot local wildlife like peregrine falcons and red deer.
Offers the option to disembark at Pooley Bridge, a 15-minute walk from the pier with tea rooms, pubs, and shops.
Equipped with well-maintained toilets, licensed bars, and seating options on upper decks and lower deck saloons for comfortable cruising.
Operates with a flexible booking policy, allowing for cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cruise Overview and Pricing

The Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise departs from Glenridding Pier, offering visitors an opportunity to explore one of England’s most picturesque lakes.

The cruise costs from £24.50 per person and lasts a total of two hours, with one hour spent travelling each way.

Set out on a 2-hour Ullswater Lake District cruise, with 1 hour spent traversing each way, at a cost of £24.50 per person.

Booking is flexible, allowing travellers to reserve their spot now and pay later. Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This scenic cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Lake District National Park promises a memorable experience.

Scenic Experience and Wildlife

Cruising along England’s most beautiful lake, Ullswater, offers visitors a scenic experience within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Lake District National Park.

Witness iconic Lakeland scenery with panoramic mountain and countryside views best enjoyed from the comfort of a boat. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including peregrine falcons, red deer, and other rare mammals and birds.

This lake holds significant cultural importance, having inspired renowned poets and writers like William Wordsworth.

The Ullswater Steamer fleet has been operating scenic cruises on the lake since 1859, providing a timeless connection to the region’s natural beauty.

Cruise Itinerary and Stops

Starting at Glenridding Pier, the Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise offers passengers the option to disembark at Pooley Bridge, a 15-minute walk away.

This charming village features tea rooms, pubs, and independent shops, providing an opportunity to explore the local culture.

The cruise also connects to walking routes, including the 20-mile Ullswater Way around the lake.

Ullswater Steamers have been operating since 1859, with the historic Lady of the Lake launching in 1877, offering a unique glimpse into the area’s heritage.

Whether you choose to stay onboard or venture off, the cruise provides a scenic and immersive experience in the Lake District.

Facilities and Amenities

Excellent facilities await passengers at the main pier houses, including well-maintained toilets and licensed bars onboard the vessels.

Seating options cater to various preferences, with upper decks offering outdoor views and lower deck saloons providing indoor comfort.

Refreshment stops are allowed during the leisurely two-hour cruise. The boats are equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all travelers.

With these amenities, passengers can relax and fully enjoy the stunning Ullswater scenery as they navigate through the heart of the Lake District’s natural wonder.

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Important Information and Restrictions

To take the Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise, passengers must meet at the Glenridding Pier House’s main car park.

There are a few important guidelines to keep in mind:

The cruise offers limited wheelchair access, so passengers should check the timetable in advance for sailing times that accommodate their needs.
Certain items are prohibited onboard, including weapons, smoking, drones, intoxication, and littering.
The Ullswater Steamers don’t operate on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
The cruise has an excellent customer rating of 4.9/5 based on 35 reviews, highlighting its transportation and value for money.

Exploring the Ullswater Way

While passengers can enjoy the scenic cruise around Ullswater, the area also offers opportunities to explore the Ullswater Way, a 20-mile walking route circling the lake.

This trail connects the various villages and landmarks along the shoreline, providing hikers with stunning vistas of the fells and water.

Walkers can choose to tackle the entire route or opt for shorter day hikes. The trail is well-marked and suitable for various fitness levels, making it accessible to both avid ramblers and casual strollers.

Combine the cruise with a lakeside walk for a truly immersive Ullswater experience.

Discovering Pooley Bridge

One popular stop along the Ullswater cruise is the charming village of Pooley Bridge.

Located just a 15-minute walk from the Pooley Bridge pier, this quaint destination offers a range of delightful experiences:

A short stroll from the Pooley Bridge pier leads to a quaint destination brimming with delightful experiences.

Cozy tea rooms and pubs serve refreshing beverages and local cuisine.
Independent shops showcase unique artisanal crafts and souvenirs.
Picturesque bridges and a historic church provide scenic photo opportunities.
Hiking trails connect Pooley Bridge to the wider Ullswater Way, allowing further exploration of the stunning Lake District landscape.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews attest to the Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise’s ability to captivate visitors.

With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 35 reviews, the cruise ranks highly for its transportation quality and value for money.

Customers praise the stunning scenery, from the iconic Lakeland vistas to the chance of spotting wildlife like peregrine falcons and red deer.

The heritage boats, including the historic Lady of the Lake, add to the cultural experience.

Reviewers highlight the excellent facilities, flexible booking, and the option to disembark at Pooley Bridge, making the cruise a must-do activity in the Lake District.

The Sum Up

The Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise from Glenridding Pier offers an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views, the chance to spot local wildlife, and convenient amenities. Priced at £24.50 per person, this 2-hour cruise is a must-do for anyone visiting the Lake District, providing a peaceful and immersive way to explore the region’s natural beauty. With flexible booking and free cancellation options, it’s a versatile and enjoyable activity for all.

You can check availability for your dates here: