One of Ullswater ‘Steamers’ vessels, MV Lady Dorothy, has been officially recognised as part of the National Historic Fleet.
The new recognition by National Historic Ships UK means that all five heritage vessels sailing in the Ullswater ‘Steamers’ fleet have now been formally acknowledged for their historical significance.
The ships register provides an overview of the UK’s historic vessels and can be used to identify and prioritise significant vessels that should be conserved, provide guidance to decision-makers on the allocation of funding, and give an early warning of ships ‘at risk’.
Carrying up to 63 passengers, the vessel was originally built in the Channel Islands in the 1960s but has been sailing all-year-round in Ullswater since 2001.
The news comes as a vital walkway linking Howtown Pier and the spectacular Ullswater Way has been given a new lease of life.
There has been a pier at Howtown since 1853, underlining how much easier – and greener – it is to travel across the water to the eastern shore of Ullswater than using the single-track road available on land. A new upgraded walkway makes it easier for people to access the pier.
New additions include anti-slip decking boards and replacement handrails on the walkway, which were showing major signs of wear and tear from more than 20 years of regular use.
And £5 from every season ticket sale on Ullswater ‘Steamers’ will continue to be donated to the Lake District Foundation to help repair and maintain footpaths around the Ullswater Way. The season tickets give ticket-holders unlimited travel on scheduled services, as well as 10% off hot drinks in the pier houses and 10% off events.
General Manger of Ullswater ‘Steamers’, Callum Smith, said: “With Lady Dorothy newly inducted into the National Historic Fleet and season tickets also returning for the first time since before the pandemic, it’s a great time for anyone who wants to explore multiple walking routes around Ullswater to get out and explore.
“The repair and renewal of the Howtown Pier walkway is also fantastic because it opens up the eastern side of the lake and gives people more opportunities to get on and off boats as easily as possible.”
