[O]n the 26th June 2017, the award-winning visitor attraction Ullswater ‘Steamers’ will celebrate the 140th anniversary of M.Y Lady of the Lake – the oldest heritage vessel in both their famous fleet, and quite possibly the world. Each year the fleet carries thousands of passengers on idyllic cruises around one of the region’s most beautiful lakes.
To mark the occasion a bottle of champagne will be broken over her bows to celebrate her history and heritage accompanied by children from Stainton C of E Primary School in Penrith, St Patricks C of E in Endmoor and Penrith Town Band. She will then embark on her anniversary sailing from Glenridding Pier with guests onboard raising a toast to commemorate her long-lasting service.
Prior to the anniversary special events will take place throughout the weekend of the 24th & 25th June with round the lake ticket holders receiving a special commemorative gift when they sail.
Lisa Braithwaite Attractions Marketing Manager at Ullswater Steamers says; “The 26th June is a significant date for Ullswater ‘Steamers’ as it marks 140 years of providing visitors and locals with iconic cruises around this beautiful part of the Lake District. As we come closer to finding out the decision on World Heritage inscription, we have so much to celebrate in 2017 and we are delighted that M.Y Lady of the Lake continues to serve passengers from all around the globe.”
Launched on 26th June 1877, M.Y Lady of the Lake was designed by Mr Douglas Henson of Penrith, built at Rutherglen near Glasgow, transported in three sections by rail to Penrith and thereafter by horse drays to Waterside near Pooley Bridge, where she was assembled. In 1889, she was put to the test as her new sister ship Raven was launched for trials between Sandwick and Patterdale. Much to the delight of her crew, Lady of the Lake arrived first.
The ‘Lady of the Lake’ was the woman who legend says gave King Arthur his sword, Excalibur. On his instructions, after being fatally wounded in battle, Excalibur was said to have been returned to the Dark Lake. As Arthur’s father, Uther Pendragon, was reputed to live close by, some believe that the Dark Lake was in fact Ullswater. With this in mind a brand new and free King Arthur App Trail has been launched in the anniversary year to bring the myths and legends alive.
