The legendary hydroplane, Bluebird K7 will be returning to Ullswater in Cumbria on 23 July to celebrate the 70th anniversary of speed ace Donald Campbell’s first World Water Speed Record.
Tracy Hodgson, Director of the Ruskin Museum said: “On 23 July 1955, Donald Campbell achieved his first World Water Speed Record on Ullswater where he reached 202.32mph, and this year will be the 70th anniversary of that incredible feat. To celebrate this, the Ruskin Museum will display Bluebird K7 at Glenridding Pier at Ullswater on the 23 July.”
She added: “K7 is being exhibited at the pier in collaboration with Ullswater ‘Steamers’, an award-winning attraction who 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 Northen England and North Wales.”
Tracy said: “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, marking 70 years since Donald Campbell’s historic first World Water Speed Record. 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.
Louise Harris, Head of Marketing for The Inn Collection Group, said: “We are delighted to support the team at the Ruskin Museum & Ullswater ‘Steamers’ in bringing the Bluebird back to the lake to celebrate the 70th anniversary of this amazing first World Water Speed Record. We can’t wait to see everyone at The Ullswater Inn to celebrate this amazing feat.”
Bluebird K7 will be at Glenridding Pier from 9am to 3pm, meaning she will be away from the museum for the whole day on 23 July, but she will return to her usual home in the museum’s Bluebird wing for 24 July.
