Ullswater ‘Steamers’ Sustainability
Ullswater ‘Steamers’ is an environmentally accredited attraction in the north of the Lake District National Park. We currently hold the Gold Green Tourism Business Scheme and Green at Heart accreditations for best environmental practice.
Internationally, Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has been recognised for previous World Responsible Tourism Awards in the sea and river cruise category. These major accolades reflect our commitment to sustainable practices, at the heart of our tourism strategy.
The biodiversity of the Ullswater Valley is a key element in Ullswater ‘Steamers’ success and we recognise our duty to be responsible for the environmental impact our business has on the surrounding Lake District environment.
Ullswater Steamers isn’t just about tickets; it’s about preserving our heritage and sharing the magic of Ullswater with future generations. Every ticket counts towards the upkeep of the Ullswater Way footpaths, protecting habitats for UKs rarest species, looking after the heritage fleet and this special place for future generations to enjoy.
Visitor payback scheme
Since 1995 Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has worked with the Lake District Foundation to raise awareness and funds for a series of local conservation projects in the Ullswater valley and Lake District National Park. Every ticket counts, passenger fares between Howtown and Glenridding generate a 10p donation in addition to £5 from season ticket purchases.
To date, Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has raised over £70,000 towards such projects. Our current objective is to improve and repair the Ullswater Way footpaths, in 2024 we are replacing the raised walkway connecting Howtown pier and Ullswater Way.
You can also make a donation online when you purchase your Ullswater 'Steamers' tickets, which will go to the Penrith & District Red Squirrel Group. In 2023 we raised £400 for the Red Squirrel charity.
Protecting wildlife
The Ullswater Valley is home to some of the UK’s most endangered and rare species, including the world’s fastest bird peregrine falcon, the raven, the resting holly blue butterflies in Martindale, the very shy red squirrel and the red deer stags. When on Ullswater look out for native and migratory visitors, including red breasted mergansers, greylag geese, herons and little wagtails.
All of these creatures are protected and Ullswater ‘Steamers’ raises awareness and funds to help protect the natural habitat. You can support by adding a donation to an online purchase too! Every ticket counts.
Travel by public transport
Ullswater ‘Steamers’ encourages our visitors to, where possible, leave your car behind and travel to the Ullswater Valley by train and bus. Travel to Penrith train station, which has bus connections to Pooley Bridge and Ullswater ‘Steamers’ and excellent bus links between Penrith, Pooley Bridge and Glenridding all year, with great savings when you purchase a Stagecoach Bus & Boat Ticket.
The 'Ullswater Bus' has returned for 2024, providing a minibus service that connects hotspots in the valley. Find out more below.
Charge your electric car
We have 1 x double 11kW EV charger on site located by the picnic area. Charges apply. Please download the Monta app in advance of your visit and follow the instructions to charge your vehicle.
Please note that Ullswater Steamers do not manage the app services. Please contact Monta directly via the app if you have any queries or issues. Please note that car parking charges apply whilst using the EV.
Reducing our carbon footprint
Environmental issues, such as consumption of fossil fuels and air emissions, are central to the activities of Ullswater ‘Steamers’. The implementation of our Environmental Management Survey (EMS) procedure has assisted us with managing our activities and reducing the impact Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has on the environment and waste streams.
Every year we calculate our carbon emissions and offset office consumables as part of our carbon Net-Zero roadmap. In 2024 we supported planting of 66sq m of UK native woodland working in partnership with the Woodland Trust carbon capture scheme for our brochure print.
You can find out how to reduce fuel consumption and calculate fuel costs for a trip to the 'Steamers' below:
