Ullswater Lake.
Wordsworth wrote of Ullswater as “the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur which any of the lakes afford”.
It was here, at Glencoyne Point, that he sat together with his sister Dorothy marvelling at the early Spring display of daffodils. Later, he recalled the scene in his now famous poem, “Daffodils”:
"I wandered lonely as a cloud,
That floats on high oe'r vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake ,beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze."
The shoreline of the 8 mile long, ¾ mile wide and up to 200 feet deep lake is perfect for walkers with its level paths through woodland and past cascades. Here, you may chance upon the rarely seen red squirrels or deer.
The pretty village of Pooley Bridge at the northern end is a popular tourist attraction and home to the Ullswater Yacht Club. The Club has facilities for wind-surfing, canoeing, sailing and fishing.
Steamers sail the lake between here, Howtown, and the larger village of Glenridding at the southern end. These cruises on boats refurbished to a high standard, offer passengers not only fine views of the surrounding mountains, but commentaries in comfort, on-board refreshments, and, if necessary, central heating.
The waterfall of Aira Force, mid-way between Glenridding and Watermillock on the lakeside A592, is a worthwhile excursion.
Glenriddings Beckside car park Information Centre offers a wide range of helpful advice and facilities including wheelchair, push-chair,and electric scooter hire. Fishing licences are also available here.
Ullswater is easily reached by road. However, in winter, the Kirkstone Pass route is often icy and occasionally closed. The Tourist Information Centres have details of bus services and nearest rail links.
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