A Guide to Ullswater and its Campsites by Campervan
Read Time: About 15 minutes
Ullswater, Penrith, UK. Ronan Laker
Stop number two on the itinerary of our Campervan Road Trip of the Lakes takes us into Ullswater, tucked within the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. Find below the full itinerary, which we will build up over the coming weeks.
So, let’s jump into part 2 of our campervan trip. The gorgeous glacial lake, nestled within Pooley Bridge and Glenriddig, is a focal point for water sports and is encircled by fells like Helvellyn, which is ideal for seasoned climbers. As the wheels roll along snaking roads, the verdant hills and shimmering waters of Ullswater paint a picture-postcard scenery of tranquil beauty.
- Ullswater Campervan Road Trip Itinerary
- Why Is Ullswater Famous?
- Is it Safe to Swim in Ullswater?
- Campervan Hire Towns in Ullswater
- Can You Camp at Ullswater?
- Ullswater Camping Cabins
- Campsites at Ullswater for Motorhomes
- Camping in and around Ullswater
- Best Campsites at Ullswater
- The Best Campervan Road Trip of Ullswater
Ullswater Campervan Road Trip Itinerary
Glencoyne Bay. My_trailsandtails
We have created a detailed itinerary for exploring the Lake District and Ullswater in a campervan. We start our road trip at Hadrian's Wall and rumble over to Ullswater before continuing to England's largest National Park. Next on the list are the tempting sandy shores of St. Bees Head Heritage Coast and several other must-see locations in the Lakes. Take a peek at our Lake District itinerary below for a detailed look at our adventure. Check Camperbug for campervan hire if you need a camper
With gorgeous attractions like Helvellyn, the third-highest peak in the Lake District, and Glencoyne Bay, a tranquil shoreline offering opportunities for picnics, walks, and serene natural beauty, Ullswater is a beautiful spot for adventure and relaxation. An attractive combination of outdoor activities, cultural richness and natural beauty make Ullswater a highly appealing destination for travellers looking for a memorable holiday in the Lake District.
Knotts Hill Caravan Park rests in the beautiful, nature-filled Lake District National Park, providing campers with a delightful base for rest, adventures and more. Campers can wander from the National Park's deepest lake to its highest mountain.
Why Is Ullswater Famous?
Howtown Pier, Ullswater Lake. Alicegmp88
Ullswater, the second largest lake in England, often called the most beautiful lake in the Lake District, is one of Cumbria’s best-kept secrets. Glistening waters, jagged fells, and cascading waterfalls spoil visitors and outdoor adventurers, who have far too many options for walks, hikes, wild swimming, sailing and more. Set up camp near the ribbon lake, and you’ll be in the heart of some of the finest scenery in England.
The lake twists and turns around the surrounding hills, with plenty to explore around its shores. This area of the Lake District is underdeveloped and underpopulated, providing a tranquil, remote and extensive area for campervan adventures, open-air pursuits and relaxation. Charming villages line its shore, and quaint shops entice with quirky offerings, while local restaurants and pubs beckon with meals and tipple courtesy of the local larder and there’s plenty to keep all ages entertained, so head on down to Ullswater for a magical experience.
Cross Dormont Camping and Caravans is a peaceful site nestled within Cumbria’s world-famous Lake District National Park. The friendly family-run site rests on a working hill farm with sprawling pastures extending to the shores of the shimmering Ullswater.
Is it Safe to Swim in Ullswater?
Portland Boathouse, Ullswater, Martin_Creative66
With glittering water around and summer's sweltering caress, it's no surprise the glacial lake looks enticing. Visitors can splash around and enjoy a refreshing dip in many spots, and a range of private coaching sessions provide first-hand helpful introductions to cold water swimming. First-time wild swimmers new to large expanses of water are encouraged to swim close to the shore with the freedom to put their feet down when tired. Experienced swimmers can swim from the shore into 0.75 meters of the expansive lake; however, deeper waters are often colder.
Kailpot Crag. Georgiawilsonwaterworth
Kailpot Crag has a small shingle beach and a cliff for diving into deep water. Its westerly position affords gorgeous sunset swimming, easily accessed via a lake path from Howtown Pier. Seasoned swimmers can paddle along the shore from Sandwick towards Howtown, with buoys marking rocky beaches and a place to exit the water and take a breather. The secret pebbly beach at Silver Bay rests under Silver Crag, with a beautiful sheltered section for swimming. Parking is available just 1.5 miles away, with lovely views over the water along the access road. Anticipate a refreshing escape into pristine waters in Ullswater.
Campervan Hire Towns in Ullswater
Helvellyn. So__Pie
If you’re wondering where to hire a campervan in Ullswater, we have a few helpful suggestions. With shimmering bodies of water, mist-capped peaks and jaw-dropping natural beauty, a campervan is the best way to truly admire the views while exploring Ullswater and the wealth of attractions. Look forward to lakeside picnics with campervans in Hesket Newmarket. Alternately, enjoy the convenience of campervan rentals in Penrith, also by visiting beautiful Ullswater and enhance your trip by hiring a campervan in Keswick. Read on to find out what you can explore in these campervan hire locations.
The small village of Hesket Newmarket is peaceful, quiet and scenic, providing a fantastic gateway for a Cumbrian adventure. Tucked in the heart of the Lake District National Park, the settlement is a great base for campervan enthusiasts who wish to explore the region at their own pace. Head out on beautiful drives in your home on wheels, stopping to admire quaint villages and enchanting views. Discover the village's charm and visit the historic Hesket Newmarket Brewery, where one can sample locally brewed ales and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of a cosy village pub. Caldbeck Common is a terrific start for all adventures, offering scenic walking trails, abundant nature, and panoramic views of the surrounding fells. Embark on an unforgettable road trip through the Lake District with our campervans in Hesket Newmarket.
Age: 25-70
Travel: N/A
Gearbox: Manual
Doug is our converted LWB version of the VW T6 in stunning Metallic Indium Grey with bright yellow highlights. He seats up to five and sleeps up to four people with three 3 point belts in the front and two 3 point belts in the rear.
Unlock a world of exploration and breathtaking scenery of the Lake District at Bampton. Positioned near the glittering lake, campervans in Bampton offer the perfect blend of comfort and adventure for travellers eager to get lost in beautiful natural landscapes. The historic village forms a string of settlements within the Lowther Valley. aIt boasts plenty of character, exciting architecture, traditional cobbled streets, and effortless access to Ullswater and its surrounding attractions. Sit back and soak in lovely rural views before you start the engine and head out on an adventure.
Age: 25-75
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Earl is a sleek Volkswagen Transporter T6, fully-converted into a 4 berth camper van in March 2020. No expense spared on this camper van conversion.
Penrith Castle. Englishheritage
Hiring a campervan in Penrith opens doors to unlimited adventure in the Lake District. The handsome town enjoys a central location and is perfectly positioned for exploring the dramatic northern Lake, the Eden Valley, and the undulating hills of the Pennines. Cruise along scenic routes in your campervan as you meander through verdant valleys and charming villages, with the freedom to stop and admire the scenery along the way. The historic ruins of Penrith Castle could be your first stop, with centuries of stories and secrets. The bustling streets of the town centre are ideal for lazing in cosy cafes or browsing the offerings at quaint shops. Campervan adventures in Penrith are an immersive experience and perfect for soaking in the heritage of Cumbria. Make the most of your Ullswater visit by choosing to hire a campervan in Cumbria.
Can You Camp at Ullswater?
Ullswater Lake, Hayleyxmartin
Camping in Ullswater is the best way to soak in majestic surroundings, and yes, you can (and must) camp here. We’ve added our camping picks in Ullswater below and listed many more sites in and around the area. Campsites in Ullswater cater to a range of needs and abilities. Some sites are strictly for tent campers, others for both campers and caravanners, while others offer lovely glamping accommodations. Wake up to the warbles of birdsong and the relaxing sound of Ullswater's waves lapping the pebble shore at campsites in Keswick, and decide how to fill the day ahead.
Most campsites in Ullswater are peaceful and spacious and lie tucked in verdant nooks, at the base of craggy fells, or within easy reach of the local settlements. Countless campsites remain open throughout the year and welcome families plus pets. With excellent facilities, friendly owners willing to share expertise on the local landscape, and like-minded neighbours, camping in Ullswater is bound to be an unforgettable experience.
Discover new wonders at every turn, and stop at the majestic Aira Force waterfall, cascading down moss-covered rocks, its thunderous roar echoing across the lush valley. Further along the quaint village of Glenridding beckons with unrivalled charm, offerings glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. Make your Ullswater visit memorable with an excellent stay at campstes in Cumbria.
Ullswater Camping Cabins
Aira Force. Craftbeerchriswirral
The scenery is so enticing you may never want to leave. No fear, we have accommodation options for all tastes. Fancy camping but hate sleeping on the ground? Enter Ullswater camping cabins. They’re a great way to enjoy all the benefits of camping, such as spending time in the great outdoors while enjoying all the creature comforts of traditional camping. With amenities such as electricity, heating, air conditioning, and even Wi-Fi, these homes provide shelter and shelter.
Waterside Campsite is a camping and glamping Cabin site in Penrith, hidden amid the greenery of camping cabins in Barton Fells, with eight unfurnished glamping pods for hire. Each abode offers stunning views of Ullswater and the enclosing area, ample headroom, lockable French doors, and room for furry friends. Ullswater Holiday Park is in the heat of the Lake District and offers camping cabins for families of four. Camping cabins in Lake District has two single beds and a double pine bed for the kids, but be sure to bring your camping equipment and sleeping bags. As the name implies, the Quiet Site is a peaceful, award-winning spot with camping and glamping options and stunning views over Ullswater Lake. Enjoy a touch of luxury as you explore the thrills of camping cabins in Cumbria with facilities like an equipped kitchen, a wooden deck for lounging outside, plus heating and hot water.
The Quiet Site is an award-winning, eco-friendly campsite looking out over the shimmering lake of Ullswater, creating an ideal space for families and active types. The site also boasts the advantage of holding the best Lake District pub on the premises, ensuring nosh and well-deserved tipple pre or post-exertion.
Campsites at Ullswater for Motorhomes
We haven’t forgotten about our motorhome adventurers. In Ullswater, many campsites welcome both campervans and motorhomes, and we’ve listed quite a few on our Ullswater campsite page. Feel free to fine-tune your search with our filters. Click on your mode of transport (e.g., car, campervan, motorhome, or trailer) at the top of the page, and the system will provide campsites based on your specific criteria.
Greengill House is a lovely site on the border of the picturesque village of Morland. The site is accessible from the M6 and offers members of the Camping and Caravanning Club a lovely field next to a burbling stream on a quiet road.
River Eden, Cumbria. Sturushton78
Click here to view out plethora of Campsites at Ullswater for motorhomes. You can even search for motorhome-friendly campsites near Penrith, famed for its historic castle, or campsites for motorhomes in Keswick, located west of Ullswater, and renowned for its vibrant arts scene. Cockermouth motorhome campsites are ideal for camping within the the gateway to the western Lake District. .
Look at our campsite recommendations for Ullswater below or on our Ullswater campsite page. Take a peek at Moss Side Farm Campsite, in the southwest corner of the Lakes, which welcomes campers and glampers with various accommodations and pitches to suit all needs. For greenery, head to Crossfell Caravan Park, tucked in the Eden Valley with spectacular vistas of the Pennines. The site has electric grass and gravel plots with a maximum width of 3.7 metres and a 9.1-metre depth. Irton House Farm, a five-minute drive from Campsites at Bassenthwaite for motorhomes , offers guests a variety of pitches in an orchard or paddock with electric connections and more. With excellent amenities and gorgeous views, our campsites in Ullswater are a fantastic way to savour the beauty of the Lakes.
Crossfell Caravan Park is a serene Eden Valley site set in the small, picturesque village of Ousby, approximately nine miles east of the market town of Penrith. Enjoy serenity punctured by the calming sounds of birdsong and bleating sheep, as you soak in the fantastic mountain views and enjoy the sights of sprawling, emerald-hued countryside dotted with grazing sheep.
Camping in and around Ullswater
rgz_lostsoul Ullswater The Lake District
Camping in and around Ullswater guarantees an immersive experience within the stunning sceneries of the Lake District. With tranquil shores and towering fells, Ullswater has an array of spectacular backdrops that make the world's worries seem like a distant memory. Wake up to the gentle lapping of waves and head out on open-air adventures ranging from scenic hikes along the Ullswater Way to thrilling water-based activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. Campsites in Appleby-in-Westmorland are ideal for reaching the northern and central lakes within the Lake District. Campsites in Kirby Stephen enjoy an enviable position between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lakes. You can also book a campsite in Orton and treat yourself to post-excursion beers at one of the friendly local pubs. Below, we've highlighted why these locations are great for camping in Ullswater. Visit our main page or more campsites in the UK.
Settle Carlisle Railway. Thesteamdreamsrailco
Once the county town of Westmorland, Appleby-in-Westmorland is a welcoming market town in the heart of the Eden Valley. The settlement rests amid lush countryside and scenic vistas, serving as a focal point for the villages and hamlets nearby. Campers can savour the quiet beauty of the area by unwinding along the banks of the River Eden, and source nibbles from the traditional shops nearby. Take riverside strolls or find a secluded spot to spread out a picnic and munch on snacks from a well-stocked hamper. Take a guided tour through the majestic Appleby Castle or explore the Settle-Carlisle Railway where the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct spans across the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales. Campsites in Appleby-in-Westmorland promise an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Appleby Castle. Jen_den_pix
Camping in Kirby Stephen invites adventurous sorts to bask in the inimitable atmosphere of a historic market town in the Eden Valley. Set up camp in a beautiful valley encircled by the stunning North Pennines AONB, the Westmorland Dales, and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Campsites in Kirby Stephen provide an excellent base for days out in the Lake District National Park and the Durham Hills, with excellent access to these locations and more. Take walks alongside the glimmering River Eden, tumbling over limestone rocks, with peaceful spots for picnics. The once formidable Pendragon Castle is a great place to explore the myths and history of days past. A blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures await, and campsites in Kirby Stephen promise a memorable holiday.
Grandie Caravan Park is a compact, friendly campsite nestled in the centre of Dufton, on the Pennine Way Path, providing an ideal base for walkers to rest their heads for a night or more. The site rests at the east end of the lovely village green and boasts spectacular views over the verdant Dufton Ghyll woods and the Pennines.
Orton Scar. Lulu_Lobstee
Escape the modern world for a camping holiday in Orton, a peaceful village hidden in Cumbria’s countryside. Surrounded by hills and charming stone buildings, campers can unwind in a wonderfully peaceful ambience while exploring the attractions nearby. Nearby lies the stunning Orton Scar, a limestone plateau offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, a cracking spot for hikers and nature lovers searching for open-air adventures. The captivating ruins of Brough Castle offer a look at local history and rest a short drive away. With natural beauty and historical intrigue, campsites in Orton a relaxing retreat in the idyllic English countryside.
Best Campsites at Ullswater
Brough Castle. Crossbones_And_Drones
Outdoor adventures are the order of the day when you kick back at campsites in Ullswater. There's no better way to admire the breathtaking beauty of the Lakes than by camping amid idyllic backdrops with access to outdoor adventures at every turn. Whether camping under the starlight skies or wandering along the scenic shores of Ullswater, the region's rustic charm will have you smitten in no time. Chapel House Farm Campsite is a lovely location for anyone with an eye for natural beauty. Cross Dormont Campsite offers camping on a sprawling, well-maintained meadow, and Alanholme Campsite is a delight for exploring the Eden Valley. Find out more below. .
Chapel House Farm Campsite in Keswick
Chapel House Farm Campsite, Keswick
Get acquainted with the scenic splendour of Keswick at Chapel House Farm Campsite. . The soul-stirring beauty of the Lake District is all around, with emerald green meadows and gentle slopes of the fell creating a delightfully laid-back ambience for nature lovers of all ages. The quiet sanctuary rests a short stroll from the shores of Derwentwater, where guests can partake in tranquil boat rides or a meander along viewsome walking trails that crisscross the ancient woodlands. Get a taste of local culture at the lively market town of Keswick, home to quaint winding streets lined with shops, cafes, galleries and the fascinating Derwent Pencil Museum. Chapel House is a no-frills, basic camping space with bags of space for games and stretching out.
Cross Dormont Campsite in Penrith
Cross Dormont Campsite, Penrith
Fall in love with the lush Penrith countryside and find solace in nature's embrace at Cross Dormont Campsite. Enveloped by undulating hills and fertile meadows, the campsite offers a blissfully tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to park touring vehicles or pitch tents. Just a stone's throw away lies the historic Brougham Castle, a magnificent mediaeval fortress steep in centuries of history, where visitors can wander through its formidable walls and be transported back in time. Adventurers needing panoramic views can take a short drive to Cross Fell, an iconic viewpoint and the highest peak in the Pennines, where breathtaking vistas of the enclosing landscape provide a feast for the eyes. The site welcomes tents, campervans, pets, and access to basic amenities.
Alanholme in Appleby-in-Westmorland
Alanholme , Appleby-in-Westmorland
Tucked in the heart of the picturesque town of Appleby-in-Westmorland, Alanholme campsite is a tranquil retreat surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Eden Valley. The campsite is set against rolling green hills and meandering rivers, providing nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts with a serene haven for relaxing. Wake up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the soothing melody of birdsong and fall asleep under a vast expanse of starlit sky. With well-equipped facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, Alanholme campsite invites campers to immerse themselves in the scenery of rural England with easy access to the charms of Appleby and the wider Lake District region. The owners welcome tents, campervans, motorhomes and caravans on pet-friendly pitches on grass and hardstanding.
The Best Campervan Road Trip of Ullswater
Derwentwater. Ellemayaway
Ullswater is more than a lovely lake enclosed by stunning mountain scenery. The dramatic views and sprawling greenery hold welcoming villages and towns, with friendly locals who love to show off their pristine corner of England. Campsite owners are happy to share their knowledge on the area, and fellow campers, perhaps mellowed by the relaxed pace of life and the unending views, make for great companions, some of whom may even become lifelong friends. Create your adventure with our Ullswater itinerary, and you'll likely be inclined to revisit soon. Our road trip doesn't end here, campers! We move to the famous and equally fabulous Lake District National Park, an easy 16-minute drive via A592 and B5320. You can take a peek at our Campervan Road Trip Itinerary for the Lake District here.
Recent Blog Role
Back to blog listSome of the recent articles on Camperbug
A Campervan Ride Through Northumberland National Park
Experience the natural beauty of Northumberland National Park and the charming landscapes of Cumbria on a campervan journey. Find your ideal campsite and embrace outdoor adventure in these scenic counties.
Go Deeper (12 min read) →Exploring Penzance in a Campervan
Discover the charm of Penzance, Cornwall in a campervan. Explore scenic campsites and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in the heart of this coastal gem.
Go Deeper (12 min read) →Experience the North Pennines by Campervan
Explore the breathtaking North Pennines in your campervan. Discover the AONB, scenic campsites, and further adventure in County Cumbria
Go Deeper (13 min read) →