Just a stone’s throw from Ullswater is this stunning historic house and gardens. Behind this Georgian façade sits a wealth of Tudor and Mediaeval rooms and buildings to explore. There has been a settlement at Dalemain since Saxon times, when a fortified pele tower is mentioned and the present day courtyard is testimony to the defensive nature of the hamlet surrounding that area.

Little can prepare you for the impact of seeing the gardens and ruins of Lowther Castle for the first time. Explore acres of gardens and wild woods, play on Britain’s largest adventure playground and wander through stunning castle ruins experiencing over 850 years of history.

Ullswater ‘Steamers’ is an award winning environmentally accredited Lake District attraction celebrating over 160 years of operating cruises on England’s most beautiful lake. Operating one of the largest heritage vessel fleets in the world, offering visitors an experience they will never forget for 363 days a year. Cruises connect to some of the most famous and iconic walking routes in the National Park, with views of Wordsworth's daffodils on the west shore in spring. Facilities onboard include an open deck, covered upper deck seating areas in addition to covered downstairs saloons, licensed bars and toilets. Excellent facilities also located at the Pier Houses including free Wi-Fi. Guests staying with us have a pier only a few hundred meters away.

The Rheged Centre, Penrith, is at the northern gateway to the English Lake District, has a vibrant arts and family events programme and welcomes 450,000 visitors every year. In addition to the award winning Gallery, giant cinema, indoor and outdoor play and pottery and block printing workshop, you will also find individual shops selling children’s books and toys, outdoor gear and gadgets, local food and drink in our Foodhall, niche skincare, quality clothing and British wool products all of which champion provenance, craftsmanship and design. Cafes at Rheged serve local seasonal produce. Rheged is a family business which is rooted in Cumbria and it’s also a building of architectural merit, with one of the largest grass roofs in the country.

Probably the most famous of the Lake District waterfalls, Aira Force has attracted visitors for over 300 years and provides a glimpse of a landscaped Victorian park with dramatic waterfalls, arboretum and rocks scenery. The main force falls 70 feet from below a stone footbridge and is a natural playground for children to have endless fun. Discover a place full of adventure, and make special memories with the whole family this spring at Aira Force. From splashing through streams and hiding behind towering trees in the woods to becoming a red squirrel detective.

The Ullswater Way is a 20 mile walking route round Ullswater and it can be walked in any direction and from any starting point - you can even incorporate an open bus or a steamer! If you would rather leave the compass and OS map at home then why not allow us here at Waternook to put you in touch with a mountain guide who can develop a bespoke walk for you. The guide can also build in elements upon request based on historic walks, wildlife, foraging and photography so please do let us know your personal needs.

• Pooley Bridge
  Located at the northern end of Ullswater, Pooley Bridge is a historic and picturesque village featuring pubs, tea shops, retail and a Post Office.
• Glenridding
  Located at the southern end of Ullswater, Glenridding offers a small number of pubs, cafes and shops selling gifts, outdoor clothing, maps and guides.
• Penrith
  An eclectic mix of independent shops, high street brands, market stalls and supermarkets.
• Ambleside
  A stunning Lakeland town featuring shops, restaurants, a cinema and historic attractions.
• Keswick
  Visitors have a wide choice of attractions, shops, outdoor pursuits and Theatre By The Lake.

With an aim to conserve birds of prey through education, breeding, research and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned birds. See hawks, eagles, falcons and owls from around the world, with flying displays, a tea room and gift shop.

Ullswater is widely known as the most beautiful of all the English Lakes, not least because of the sublime lake and mountainous landscapes, but also because of the abundance of rare and varied wildlife. The ability to take a quality photo has always been an ambition of mine. There is something so emotive about taking a photo that captures a moment in time, preserving history, and moves people in ways that words cannot. Guests who are staying at Waternook and The Great Barn can benefit from a bespoke course with one of The Lake Districts finest photographers. Whether you're a beginner wanting to learn how to use your DSLR or a seasoned photographer looking for local knowledge and local spots you can trust us to source the best location for your personal needs.

Yes that’s right! Though no ski-hire shops, just a vast wilderness to explore! Founded in 1936, the Lake District Ski Club operates a 360-metre button tow on Raise, next to Helvellyn in the Lake District National Park. An hour's walk from the mines at Glenridding, Raise is positioned for the best snow in the Lakes and the tow gives access to a substantial part of the mountain. There are up to nine runs available, depending on prevailing conditions, the longest of which is almost a mile. Raise's ungroomed slopes provide for a unique experience, with a total of sixty days of skiing enjoyed during particularly good seasons. While it is an austere environment, they have a very cosy heated members' hut!

We offer a wide choice of concierge services, designed to enhance your stay with us at Waternook. These include bespoke classes in cooking, baking and wine tasting, a wide selection of outdoor pursuits, as well as Yoga, Wellness, Mindfulness and Nutrition experiences.