Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise from Pooley Bridge offers a captivating journey through the region’s stunning natural landscapes. Operated by the renowned Ullswater Steamers, this two-hour excursion promises breathtaking vistas of the iconic Helvellyn mountain range and the opportunity to spot rare wildlife. With flexible booking options, a hassle-free cancellation policy, and on-board amenities, this cruise provides a relaxing and immersive experience for visitors seeking to enjoy the serene beauty of the Lakeland region. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this cruise may just be the perfect addition to your Lake District itinerary.
Good To Know
- The Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise from Pooley Bridge is a scenic 2-hour journey on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed lake, featuring heritage boats.
- The cruise offers captivating Lakeland scenery, including views of the Helvellyn mountain range and sightings of rare UK wildlife.
- Prices for the cruise start from £26 per person, with flexible booking options and a hassle-free experience.
- Passengers can depart and return to the Pooley Bridge pier house, which has amenities like toilets and licensed bars.
- The cruise has limited wheelchair accessibility, and restrictions apply for items like weapons, sharp objects, and intoxication.
Cruise Details
On the Ullswater Lake District Cruise, passengers embark on a scenic journey along England’s most beautiful lake, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Lake District National Park.
The cruise duration is 1 day, with a total cruise time of 2 hours, 1 hour each way. Operated by Ullswater Steamers since 1859, the cruise features heritage boats, including the iconic Lady of the Lake launched in 1877.
Passengers can enjoy the Lakeland scenery that inspired poets and writers, such as William Wordsworth, while keeping an eye out for rare UK mammals and birds.
The cruise departs from Pooley Bridge pier house, with facilities including toilets, licensed bars, and outdoor seating.
Scenic Highlights
Cruising along Ullswater, passengers are treated to a mesmerizing display of Lakeland scenery that has captivated poets and writers for centuries.
The lake’s serene waters reflect the majestic fells that rise sharply from the shore, providing a dramatic backdrop. Sailing past historic villages and ancient woodlands, guests can spot rare UK mammals and birds, including red deer and nesting ospreys.
The cruise also offers unparalleled views of the iconic Helvellyn mountain range, whose rugged peaks were immortalized in the poetry of William Wordsworth.
Throughout the journey, passengers are immersed in the UNESCO World Heritage-designated landscape that has inspired generations of artists and nature enthusiasts.
Booking and Flexibility
Flexibility and convenience are hallmarks of the Ullswater Lake District Cruise booking process.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The open-ticket system allows for flexible return times, so visitors can disembark at Glenridding for refreshments and exploration.
Key booking details include:
- Prices starting from £26 per person
- Reserve now, pay later
- Cancel up to 24 hours for full refund
- Flexible return times
- Option to disembark at Glenridding
This hassle-free booking experience ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey along the iconic Ullswater Lake.
Arrival and Departure
The departure point for the Ullswater Lake District Cruise is the Pooley Bridge pier house, located a 15-minute walk from the Pooley Bridge village.
This historic departure point provides easy access to the cruise, with ample parking available in the village for visitors. Guests are advised to arrive at the pier house a few minutes before their scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Upon return, travelers can disembark at the same pier house, with the option to explore the nearby village and its amenities.
The cruise’s flexible return times allow for a leisurely experience, with the ability to stop at Glenridding for refreshments and further exploration along the way.
Onboard Amenities
The Ullswater Lake District Cruise offers a range of onboard amenities to enhance the passenger experience.
The boats feature licensed bars where passengers can enjoy refreshments during the journey. On top of that, the upper decks provide ample outdoor seating, allowing travelers to take in the breathtaking scenery.
Indoor saloons offer a more sheltered environment, perfect for those seeking a cozy setting. Conveniently, the vessels are equipped with toilet facilities, ensuring passenger comfort throughout the cruise.
Plus, the cruise company welcomes passengers with dogs, bikes, and paddleboards, subject to applicable charges, making it an inclusive experience for all.
Accessibility and Restrictions
Ullswater Steamers’ cruise operations have limited wheelchair accessibility, as noted in the timetable. While the boats are equipped with facilities such as toilets, passengers with mobility challenges may face restrictions.
Travellers are advised to check the schedule carefully and plan accordingly. Plus, certain items are prohibited on board, including weapons, sharp objects, smoking, drones, and intoxication. Unaccompanied minors are also not permitted.
Passengers are encouraged to bring essential items such as a camera, water, and comfortable clothing to ensure a enjoyable and safe experience on the lake. These policies are in place to maintain the safety and comfort of all guests aboard the historic Ullswater Steamers.
Customer Reviews
While the boat operations and accessibility details are important considerations, a review of customer feedback provides valuable insights into the overall guest experience on the Ullswater Steamers cruise.
Based on 19 reviews, the cruise has earned an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
However, some areas of concern have been noted by travelers:
- Transportation rating of 3.9/5, indicating potential issues with logistics or timeliness
- Value for money rating of 3.4/5, suggesting the cruise may not fully align with guest expectations
- Mixed reviews, with some travelers noting problems with itinerary fulfillment and timing
Sum Up
The Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise from Pooley Bridge offers a unique opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site‘s breathtaking landscapes. The 2-hour journey showcases the iconic Helvellyn mountain range and rare wildlife sightings, providing a relaxing and flexible experience. Onboard amenities, hassle-free booking, and convenient departure location make this cruise an attractive option for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Lake District.