Ullswater Steamers

The image shows the M.Y Lady of the Lake cruise ship over Ullswater. The boat is packed with guests aboard.
The Ullswater Steamers is the best way to explore Ullswater and take in the surrounding fells of the Lake District.

For over 160 years, the Ullswater Steamers have been proud to provide scenic cruises across Ullswater.

There’s no better way to take in the true beauty of Ullswater, at 7.5miles long, 0.5miles wide, and 205ft deep, surrounded by the Helvellyn valleys, one of Britain’s highest mountain peaks at 3,117ft high.

The Lake District is full of rich history, and the Ullswater Steamers are no exception! The original purpose of the ‘Steamers’, once known as ‘Ullswater Steam Navigation Company’, was not only carrying passengers, but also Royal Mail provisions, slate from nearby mines and lead from the Greenside mine. During WW2, the boats even ferried soldiers down to Glenridding for training at the Ullswater Hotel.

M.Y. Lady of the Lake is believed to be the oldest working passenger vessel in the world and M.Y. Raven was directly inspired by leading tour operator Thomas Cooke.

You can find out more about the history of the Ullswater Steamers here.

Whether you’re connecting to iconic Lake District walking destinations, or simply looking for a different way to take in the stunning views of the Lakes, there’s no trip like a boat trip!

Enjoy an award-winning, environmentally-accredited cruise all-year-round, excluding only Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, on one of the largest heritage boat fleets in the entire world. That’s something to write home about!

AT A GLANCE

Booking: Cruise tickets can be booked via the Ullswater Steamers website, though this may not be necessary off-peak.

Dogs: Dogs are permitted on the ships, for an additional fee of £1 each. Dogs must always be kept on a short lead and under close control. Dogs are not permitted on the seats inside the saloons or outside on the upper decks.

Seating: Open, covered, and indoor seating available on fleets, provisions may vary.