Two of Cumbria’s most popular visitor attractions are preparing to celebrate the Coronation in style – with the new King Charles III being no stranger to the sights and sounds of the Lake District.
The then HRH Prince Charles last visited Ullswater ‘Steamers’ in 2018, when he cruised from Glenridding to Pooley Bridge on the flagship ‘Lady of the Lake’. As well as unveiling a commemorative plaque on board, he even tried his hand at driving the historic vessel, which was launched in 1877 and is thought to be the oldest working passenger vessel in the world.
To mark the long Bank Holiday Weekend, Ullswater ‘Steamers’ will be rolling out the red carpet for visitors with an array of bunting and Coronation decorations fit for a king.
Over at sister attraction Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, the Coronation coincides with the return to service of ‘Northern Rock’ which was built in 1976 – the same year The Prince’s Trust was founded. Built at Ravenglass, the flagship engine has been out of action for the past 2 years, but after some test runs in recent days, she returns to full service after an extensive revamp amid a colourful display of Coronation-themed decorations.
Meanwhile, the iconic railway is also providing special Coronation Cream Teas ‘on the move’ for passengers throughout May. The exclusive experiences will see groups of up to four people taking a return trip along the line in Director Saloon ‘Ruth’. Along the way they will enjoy tea or coffee in a souvenir cup to take away, with themed coronation treats. Bookings can be made direct by calling: 01229 717171.
Rachel Bell, Head of Marketing & Business Development at both attractions says, “We know His Majesty is very interested in the whole of Cumbria and the Lake District; on his last visit, he took the time to find out the history of Ullswater Steamers and made no secret of his passion for heritage, culture, boats, the environment and wildlife.
“The Coronation is the perfect time for both attractions to once again roll out the red carpet in the new King’s honour and help people celebrate this unique national occasion in heart of the very best landscape the UK has to offer.”
Fittingly, the Coronation celebrations come as Lake District Estates – which owns both Ulswater Steamers and Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway – has been continuing the legacy of her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by taking part in a unique tree planting initiative created to mark last year’s Platinum Jubilee.
129 trees have been planted at not only Ravenglass and alongside the shores of Ullswater, but also the company’s caravan parks and marina holiday apartments across Cumbria and North Lancashire. That includes Buck Yeats Lodge Park near Newby Bridge; Waterfoot Park at Pooley Bridge; Hill of Oaks Caravan & Lodge Park; Woodclose Caravan Park; and Tewitfield Marina, Carnforth. When fully grown the carbon offset will be around 1.29 tonnes annually.
For further information about Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway events and timetables, visit www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk or call 01229 717171.
For Ullswater Steamers, visit: www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
For further information, contact: Heather Sewell, hsewell@cumbriatourism.org / 07795 487003.
