GET DOWN TO GLENRIDDING

It may be out of the headlines, but Lake District infrastructure damaged by Storm Desmond in December 2015 is still being repaired. Following the major structural damage to the Lake District National Park Ullswater centre at Glenridding (it was almost buried under boulders), it has now re-opened along with a new facility called the ‘Helvellyn Basecamp’.

The idea for Helvellyn Basecamp was borne out of discussions with local adventure businesses about how to bring a new dimension to the Ullswater centre, as part of the £210,000 refurbishment. By revising the internal layout a new meeting space is now available for hire, operating alongside a sleek, revamped shop and information point.

Lake District National Park Head of Resources, Mark Hoggar, explained that the renovation had brought an opportunity to work with local businesses and the wider community to both restore and enhance the previous features the centre provided.

“We’ve designed a space people can make their own, a base perhaps for local adventure businesses to start or end mountain expeditions. It can also be used for corporate away days, events, exhibitions – a flexible place for everyone. Based on the feedback we received we’ve kept it fairly simple so users can move things around and create what they need.”

Catering for groups up to 20, Helvellyn Basecamp boasts flexible space, a kitchen, tables and chairs, bathroom, projector and full Wi-Fi.

Mark added:

“It combines with a new look, modern shop and information point, adding up to a great resource in a fantastic location. We spent last season operating out of a Portacabin in the car park, so visitors and locals alike are in for a real treat with the new-look centre.”

“As we’re in the shadow of the Lake District’s third highest peak, Helvellyn Basecamp reflects the mountain’s importance to the countless numbers who come here to enjoy the iconic landscape. I’m sure our new centre will have broad appeal and we look forward to playing our part in attracting and welcoming people to the area looking for a truly fabulous place to meet-up and explore.”