western belle credit ben barden and jaygo miller

With the 90th birthday of heritage vessel MV Western Belle in 2025, Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has unveiled a range of itineraries tailored specifically for groups and FITs to explore what’s often described as England’s most beautiful lake.

Western Belle started her life at Great Yarmouth in 1935 and has been a firm favourite on Ullswater for the last 15 years. She’s just one of the five historic boats which sail on the lake throughout the year, including what’s thought to be the world’s oldest surviving passenger vessel – MY Lady of the Lady, launched in 1877. As well as authentic experiences on board unique heritage boats, group passengers can also link up with other stand-out Lake District attractions or enjoy special themed itineraries in 2025.

These include:

  • Cruise options: There are a variety of scheduled cruise options from 20 minutes to two hours. The one hour cruise is ideal for groups travelling from north to south - or vice versa - of the UK and travels the full seven mile length of Ullswater.
  • Cream tea cruises: New for 2025, cream tea picnic boxes to enjoy on your lake cruise, including scone, butter, jam, clotted cream and served with coffee or tea.  Pre -order only. Minimum 10 people.
  • Evening Cruises 2025: New evening cruises will include the popular gin tasting and fish & chip cruises with live entertainment onboard.
  • Walkers’ cruises: Combine a cruise with a walking and nature tour. The Ullswater Way footpath creates something a little bit different for walking groups and FITs. Cruises link walking start points connecting four piers around the full length of Ullswater.
  • Combined itineraries: Combine a cruise with another attraction tours. We have partnered with some of the Lake District's finest; the home of Marmalade Dalemain House, Lakes Distillery and Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway.
  • Early bird photography dawn cruise: Capture the dawn through the lens on board a 2/3-hour cruise. This is a unique and very special memory making experience for early bird enthusiasts plus it’s a great opportunity to meet local photographers and share ideas.
  • Premium VIP Cruises: Ullswater 'Steamers' offer a range of private charter and cruise options for corporate events, celebrations, and weddings in the Lake District.

Ullswater ‘Steamers’ is also geared up to offer special incentives to group travel operators, including:

·                Tour guides travel free on all group tours. (For student and school groups, teachers travel FREE with every 10 fare paying students).

·                Advanced bookings from organised operators for tour groups of ten or more people qualify for our group fares.

·                Free coach parking at Glenridding and free coach drop off at Pooley Bridge piers

·                Food and drink facilities on-board, as well as Pooley Bridge and Glenridding pier houses.

Ullswater ‘Steamers’ offer series tour rates and tailored and VIP private charter tours to specifically suit your group needs.

For more information, visit: www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk/groups

PHOTO: Ben Barden and Jaygo Miller

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