The Ullswater valley is surrounded by mountains and lakes. Everywhere you look there are glimpses of the Lakeland fells and lakes ~ inspiring at any time of year.

Ullswater is the second largest lake in the Lake District ~ and we think it is the most beautiful. There are ample opportunities for paddling in the lake, getting your fishing net out or hiring a rowing boat or motor boat from Glenridding Boating Centre. Ullswater Steamers sail to Howtown and Pooley Bridge every day or you can have a go at sailing, canoeing or kayaking from Glenridding Sailing Centre where expert tuition is available.

The backdrop to Ullswater is the majestic fells that have always inspired poets, artists, walkers and climbers. From our holiday cottages you have easy access to Helvellyn, St Sunday Crag and the Fairfield and High Street ranges. There are also numerous valley and woodland walks. The lakeshore walk from Howtown was described by Wainwright as one of the finest in the Lake District; the views are breathtaking. If you prefer two wheels, there is also a good choice of bridleways. You might have to carry your bike up the fell, but it's exhilerating on the way back down!

The villages of Glenridding and Patterdale have most things you'll need on holiday::

*     4 village pubs within a 5 to 10 minute walk.
*     2 village shops, a post office and an outdoor shop       
      (Catstycam) - in case you've forgotten anything.
*     a garage with a repair centre - and a National Lottery terminal!
*     a medical centre which you hopefully won't need.
*     a National Park Information Centre for all the info you need about
       what to do and where to go.
*     Ullswater steamers and Glenridding sailing centre - for getting out
      and about on the lake.

Some useful links:

Patterdale Village Store and Post Office ...
For most things you'll need. Make sure you try their freshly baked bread and Tom's cookies!

Patterdale Community Development Centre ...
For info on what's happening locally.

Ullswater Steamers ...
A very enjoyable way to enjoy Ullswater and view the mountains from the lake.

Glenridding Sailing School ...
For everything you need for messing about on Ullswater! Sailing dinghies and traditional boats, canoes and kayaks and windsurfers for hire, as well as expert tuition by RYH qualified staff. The Centre also provides launching facilities.

Ullswater Association ...
For info about the Ullswater area, lake activities, where to walk, etc.

John Campbell, Mountain Painter ...
For many years, John Campbell worked from a small gallery in Patterdale. He is now based in Keswick, but his paintings still include magical views of the Ullswater valley. His website will certainly inspire you.

LakeDistrictDeskTops ...
For up to date images of the Lake District. New images are added every day so you enjoy your favourite bits of the Lakes from home.

The Lakeland Fells ...
Andrew Leaney's superb site - full of photos, walking routes, photos, walks. All the info you could need to plan some exciting days in the hills.

Love to Escape ...
A real chance to get away from it all ... with ideas on holiday accommodation, things to do, places to visit. And it's all on one site! Includes our self-catering cottages in Glenridding, as well as lots of information on things to do in Glenridding.

There's lot for you to explore and enjoy .....