Top News

A recent ranking of the world's most beautiful places has seen a beauty spot in the UK come in at number six.

The list, compiled by Time Out, included stunning locations from sun-soaked mountains in Spain, to ornate libraries, medieval villages in Italy, and vast waterfalls. Yet one of the world's most beautiful spots lies in the north west of the UK, easily accessible by train with a line that runs to the capital or by car. While it's a major tourist hotspot, its vast size means you can still find peace and solitude if you wish.

Ullswater, the second-largest lake in the UK came in at number six on the list, just after the picturesque Big Sur in California. The writer of the article said the scenery on their hike was so beautiful that "it was hard to believe I wasn't looking at a desktop screensaver."

Set in a Lake District valley, the lake is about seven miles long and meanders through its evergreen hills. For hardcore hikers, there's a 20-mile trail that'll take you around the entirety of the lake, although most people simply take on one section. It's generally an easy to walk route, with villages and places to eat along the way.

Hallin Fell is a relatively short hike at 3.6 miles in total, yet gives you panoramic lake views across Ullswater and the surrounding area. Beginners and families often take on this well-marked trail.

Bonscale Pike is a slightly more difficult hike with some steeper hills, coming in at about six miles overall. There's a wild camping spot, meaning those who want to spend the night in nature can pitch up and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Around the lake you'll find peaceful hamlets such as Sandwick and Howrown, usually little more than a few stone cottages and some have hotels. Villages such as Pooley Bridge, close to the north tip of the lake, are popular with tourists and offer easy access to walking trails. You can enjoy cosy pubs such as the Pooley Bridge Inn, which also has cosy rooms to enjoy after a day of hiking.

At the southern end of the lake lies Patterdale, and this often serves as a base for those hoping to scale nearby Helvellyn, England's third-highest peak. This historic village has lots of places to stay, from cottages to camping huts, as well as traditional pubs.

Nearby, you can also hop on one of the Ullswater Steamers which leave from Glenridding Pier and some other locations around the lake. Five heritage boats take visitors on tours around the water, giving a whole new perspective on the Lake District. Sit on the top deck and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, or head for the covered deck if the weather turns. Each boat even has a bar and offers light refreshments, or you can enjoy a picnic onboard.

If you prefer to sail at your own pace you can hire a boat, from a simple rowing boat or kayak to a luxury motorboat.

When you visit Ullswater, you're in the heart of the Lake District with endless other trails and lakes to explore. It's also worth taking a day to Penrith, a town that has become a hub for cyclists, hikers, and outdoorsy people, and has a historic town centre with independent shops and tea rooms.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com