Western Belle, a cherished member of the Ullswater ‘Steamers’ fleet, was launched in 1935 and is celebrating her 90th birthday this year.
The iconic 56gt vessel was built by Fellows & Co., Great Yarmouth, for Millbrook Steamboat & Trading Co., Millbrook, Cornwall, and subsequently spent time in the South West and on the River Thames.
She played a crucial role during World War II by offering a nightly escape route from Plymouth during the blitz.
In 1985 the owner was taken over by Dart Pleasure Craft Ltd, and in 2000 the vessel was sold to to Chris Cruises, Hampton Court. She was bought 2008 by Ullswater “Steamers”.
Listed on the National Historic Ships Register, Western Belle underwent extensive refurbishment in November 2010 and continues to take passengers on Ullswater year-round. She is one of five historic boats gracing the lake.
Peter Martin, skipper and operations manager at Ullswater ‘Steamers,’ reflected on her legacy: “2025 will be a very special year for Western Belle. She holds a unique place in many hearts and has a fascinating and varied history, including providing refuge during WWII bombings and machine gun raids.”
The vessel also made headlines in 2009 when Maryport Harbour experienced a tidal surge during a storm. While other vessels suffered damage, Western Belle emerged unscathed.
Measuring 21.3m in length, she was a passenger capacity of 147.
Photo = Western Belle arriving at Howtown, Lake Ullswater, 23rJuly 2015 (jackosan/shipspotting.com)
