Bluebird K7, the record-breaking hydroplane piloted by Donald Campbell, will return to Ullswater, Cumbria, on July 23, 2025. The occasion will mark the 70th anniversary of his first World Water Speed Record of 202.32mph, set in 1955.
Later on that year, Campbell surpassed his own record with a speed of 216.20mph on Lake Mead in Nevada, US. This achievement foreshadowed four successful record attempts on Coniston Water in the Lake District, UK – the same lake where he would tragically lose his life in the cockpit of Bluebird K7 in 1967.
Poignantly, K7 will return to Coniston Water in 2026 to mark the 70th anniversary of the 225.63mph World Water Speed Record he set there on September 19, 1956.
However, this year’s anniversary celebrations will see the Ruskin Museum display Bluebird K7 at Glenridding Pier, where Campbell quite literally launched his career as a World Water Speed Record breaker.
“On July 23, 1955 people crowded the shore of Ullswater to see Bluebird and Donald gain their first World Water Speed Record, beating the previous record of 178.49mph set by Stanley Sayres,” said Ruskin Museum director Tracy Hodgson. “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.”
The Bluebird display is being organised in collaboration with Ullswater Steamers, which has provided cruises upon the lake for more than 160 years, as well as Lake District Estates and the Inn Collection Group.
“This is a momentous occasion,” enthused Steamers operations manager Peter Martin. “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.”
Bluebird K7 will be displayed at Glenridding Pier from 9:00am to 3:00pm on July 23, 2025. The hydroplane will then return to the Ruskin Museum’s Bluebird Wing, where it will be displayed from 10:00am on July 24. For tickets and more information about the Ruskin Museum, click here.
