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Waterside House Campsite

Penrith, Cumbria, England
1 acre hosted by Waterside ?.
Family-friendly camping with oodles of space directly on the banks of Ullswater

Ullswater isn’t exactly lacking in campsites. It has all kinds, from large and loud commercial parks to quieter farms and hidden spots. But Waterside House is one of our favourites; there’s something easy-going yet professional about the place that makes you feel relaxed and in safe hands.

Undoubtedly this has something to do with
it being a family-run site, handed down through several generations to current tenants Joan and Colin Lowis, their son Mark and their daughter Debbie. Not only that, but, as the name suggests, Waterside is snuggled right up against the lake’s shore. Pitch on the
 grass to the left of reception and your morning views will be of the surrounding fells (including the ancient woodland at the foot of Barton Fell), foregrounded by the gently bobbing moored boats and curious swans and ducks.

The lakeside pitches continue, on the other side of the reception block, with picnic tables and a children’s play area. There’s also a second field for campers who don’t want to be right on the water, which tends to cater more for families and larger, activities-based young groups.

Since Waterside is a working farm, the atmosphere is pleasingly rural. You might even experience, depending on the season, activities such as lambing and shearing. Then again, there’s every chance you’ll be hiring one of Waterside’s rowboats or Canadian canoes to enjoy the lake, heading off for lunch in pretty Pooley Bridge (there’s a lakeshore footpath from the site), or borrowing a mountain bike to explore the surrounding terrain.

Not currently accepting bookings on Hipcamp
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Location
Penrith, Cumbria, England, United KingdomTraditional, ancestral territory of various First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Waterside ?.Joined in June 2014
From the host
Waterside is a laid back family business which is perfectly situated on the shores of Lake Ullswater.  We are the ideal base for exploring the fantastic fells or just chilling by the lake with your kids or partner.  We aim to provide a relaxed atmosphere for our guests and pride ourselves on being a family campsite with an emphasis on quiet camping. If a party is what you are looking for, then Waterside is probably not for you! Our small Lakeside Glamping Area now offering Pods and Tipis is very popular and offers arguably the best views of the Ullswater Valley. We are also a working farm which adds a different dimension to a visit here.  Come and watch the shearing in summer or coo over our lovely lambs in the spring!
Nearby attractions

Aside from all the lake-based activities on offer (try a steamer ride with Ullswater Steamers; book with the site), there’s Dalemain House (01768 486450) to visit, with its wonderful garden and various events on throughout summer.

Food and drink

The Howtown Hotel (01768 486514) has great food, an old-fashioned ambience, and friendly staff (dress smartly). The Martindale Restaurant at The North Lakes Hotel (01768 868111) 
is less formal and sells local produce.


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