Holiday rentals in Glenridding

Glenridding is a small village tucked into the foothills of the Kirkstone Pass in the centre of the UK’s Lake District. Sitting on the edge of Ullswater Lake, it’s surrounded by rolling grassy hills, and just beyond the town towers Helvellyn, the third-tallest peak in the UK. Known for having some of the most beautiful trails and views in the district, Glenridding has become a popular stop for climbers and hikers on their way to either try their hand at scaling Helvellyn or to take a more leisurely stroll along one of the other trails in the area. The paths range in variety and difficulty, with at least one trail for every skill level.

Brothers Water, a small lake a few minutes south of Glenridding, is home to trout and the rare schelly, while Derwentwater to the west is dotted with windsurfers navigating its cluster of islands. Heritage steamboats criss-cross Ullswater, or you can hire a rowboat to make your way around the lakes, and bicycles are available if you’d like to explore the area’s many trails on two wheels. When you’re ready for a break from all the activity, there are plenty of restaurants and bars in the village where you can take it easy and enjoy a well-deserved meal and a drink.

The best times to secure your accommodation in Glenridding are during the summer and autumn. The summer brings long days and warm temperatures, excellent for taking a leisurely swim in the lake. Rowing boats and bicycles can also be hired from St Patrick’s Boat Landing during the summer months.

Visit in autumn, especially during early to mid-November, to discover a different side of the Lake District. The cool, crisp morning air makes for invigorating hikes, and the surrounding forests are blanketed in a mosaic of changing foliage. Autumn is also a popular time to visit to make the most of the region’s magnificent sunsets. Winter brings cold temperatures and occasionally snow, especially at the top of Helvellyn, and the trails can be quite muddy in spring, so be sure to come prepared with layers and a good pair of boots.

Lake District National Park

Around a half-hour drive away is Lake District National Park, one of the UK’s largest and oldest national parks with dramatic green peaks punctuated by glassy lakes and reservoirs. The visitor centre is a hub for outdoor activities, such as archery, mini-golf, and boating, and the park is home to the Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre and activities including the Treetop Trek, along with multiple hiking trails.

Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum

The Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum showcases Glenridding’s history as an industrial mining town, teaching visitors about the town’s former lead and copper operations. You can explore the reconstructed mine and lay eyes on excavators and other artefacts. The highlight of any trip to the museum is a ride on the reconditioned mine train, which dips into and around the quarry.

Coniston Water

Coniston Water is one of the largest lakes in the Lake District and is also host to the Old Man of Coniston, a large peak rising over the water to the northeast. Boats are easily rentable here, allowing you to explore the waters and shores while being serenaded by bird calls. Peel Island, in the southern part of the lake, makes for a great picnic location.