One of Ullswater ‘Steamers’ heritage boats celebrates her 90th birthday this year.
MV Western Belle joined the Lake District fleet 15 years ago. She started her life at Great Yarmouth in 1935 and spent many years in the South West.
The showpiece vessel also worked on the River Thames, as well as playing a vital role in World War II during the Blitz by providing a vital route out of the city of Plymouth to the countryside each night.
Listed on the National Historic Ships Register and completely refurbished in November 2010, she continues to regularly carry passengers on Ullswater throughout the year/
She is one of the five historic boats which sail on the lake throughout the year, including what’s thought to be the world’s oldest surviving passenger vessel – Lady of the Lake, launched in 1877.
Peter Martin, skipper and operations manager at Ullswater ‘Steamers’ said: “2025 will be a very special year for Western Belle. She has a special place in many people’s hearts and has an interesting and varied history, not least providing an escape route for people during heavy bombing and machine gun raids in World War II.
“A less prestigious piece of trivia stems from her time in Maryport harbour. In 2009, the harbour gates were breached by a tidal surge during a storm, with much damage being suffered by other vessels in the harbour. Western Belle, however, escaped without harm!
“It’s fantastic to see her continuing to create such positive, memorable experiences for people 90 years after her original launch and we wish her well in her birthday year.”
