Donald Campbell’s Bluebird K7 will return to Ullswater to mark the 70th anniversary of his first water speed record.
The hydroplane will be on display at Glenridding Pier on July 23 – exactly 70 years to the day that Campbell reached speeds of over 200mph on the lake.
The Bluebird is being taken to the lake by the Ruskin Museum.
Tracy Hodgson, director of the Ruskin Museum, said: “K7 is being exhibited at the pier in collaboration with Ullswater ‘Steamers’, an award-winning attraction which has provided cruises on the lake for over 160 years, Lake District Estates, a family-owned business operating in the region for over 85 years, providing heritage attractions and holidays, and the Inn Collection Group, a multi-award-winning hospitality group who operate across Northern England and North Wales.
“In 1955 people crowded the shore of Ullswater to see Bluebird and Donald gain their first world water speed record, beating the previous record of 178.49 mph set by Stanley Sayres.
“I am sure her upcoming visit to Ullswater will also attract a large number of people wanting to see a very special piece of British high speed motoring history.”
Peter Martin, Ullswater ‘Steamers’ operations manager, said: “This is a momentous occasion. We feel a deep connection to this incredible piece of history and are honoured to play a part in commemorating his achievement. Bluebird’s return will undoubtedly be a special day for the local community and visitors alike.”
Rachel Bell, head of marketing and business development at Lake District Estates and Cumbria Tourism vice chair, said on behalf of the Ullswater Association: “The return of Bluebird K7 to Ullswater in July 2025 is great news for the entire valley.
“This 70th-anniversary commemoration of Donald Campbell’s incredible achievement will draw significant interest and visitors to our beautiful region. We anticipate a positive impact across the local businesses, from hospitality and retail to attractions and services.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our heritage and showcase all that Ullswater has to offer.”
The Ullswater Association is a membership group representing tourism businesses in and around the Ullswater Valley, located on the eastern fringes of the Lake District National Park. It operates as a collaborative body, working on behalf of its members to promote and enhance the area as a desirable destination for visitors.
Bluebird K7 will be at Glenridding Pier from 9am to 3pm on July 23. She will return to the Ruskin Museum in Coniston for display in the Bluebird wing from 10am on July 24.
