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Introduction to the Lake District?
The Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, serene lakes, and endless outdoor adventures. If you’re a watersports enthusiast and want to know where you can go paddleboarding in the lake district, then this is for you. Whether you are an enthusiast or looking to try this exciting water sport for the first time, the Lake District offers an so many stunning locations perfect for paddling. This guide will explore some of the best spots to paddleboard in the Lake District, providing essential information to make your adventure unforgettable.
The Lakes is a haven for not just for water sports enthusiasts because it offers some of the most picturesque locations for in the UK. From vast lakes with expansive waters to smaller, secluded spots, there’s a perfect paddleboarding destination for everyone. In this guide, we will explore where you can go paddleboarding in the Lake District, as well as provide helpful tips to make your experience safe and enjoyable.
Why I Wanted to Share This Post
Having lived in the Lake District on and off since 2009 – first in Newby Bridge near Windermere, and then in Patterdale by Ullswater – I’ve always felt a deep connection to this beautiful region. After a two-year adventure living in New Zealand, I returned to the Lakes and found myself drawn back to its dramatic scenery, spending my weekends climbing, paddleboarding, hiking, or embracing any outdoor activity that lets me enjoy the landscape when the weather permits.
Paddleboarding, in particular, has become one of my favourite ways to explore the lakes. I fell in love with the sport while living in Greece, where I taught paddleboarding and paddleboard fitness classes for four years as part of my role in fitness instruction (you can read more about my experience in Greece here). During the Covid lockdowns, I invested in my own paddleboards, which I still use to get out on the water whenever I can.
Now, living just an hour away, I visit the Lake District regularly, always looking for new paddleboarding spots or returning to my favourite lakes. I wanted to share this post to highlight the best places to paddleboard in the Lake District, offer some tips for a safe and enjoyable experience, and hopefully inspire others to discover the beauty of this stunning region from the water.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddleboarder or new to the sport, the Lake District has something unique to offer – and I hope this guide helps you find your next great adventure on its lakes.
Where Can You Go Paddleboarding in the Lake District?
Paddleboarding is allowed on several lakes in the Lake District, providing a variety of stunning settings to enjoy this popular water sport. Here are some of the best lakes where you can go paddleboarding:
- Lake Windermere: The largest lake in England and a popular paddleboarding spot with plenty of facilities and rental options.
- Coniston Water: Known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery, ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
- Derwent Water: Offers multiple launch points, stunning views, and small islands to explore.
- Ullswater: A picturesque lake with relatively calm waters, perfect for a relaxed paddle.
- Grasmere: A smaller, charming lake ideal for a short, leisurely paddle.
- Crummock Water: Offers clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere away from the larger lakes.
- Brotherswater: A small and accessible lake, perfect for a peaceful and short paddle.
However, there are some lakes where this is not permitted or you just need to have a permit in place. Make sure to check the regulations for each lake before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. These are updated regularly here and as over tourism continues in most beautiful spots around the world, I imagine the national parks will need to have some restrictions in place from time to time to protect them.
Things to Remember When Paddleboarding in the Lake District
Paddleboarding, or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), is a versatile and enjoyable water sport that allows you to explore the beauty of the Lake District from a unique perspective. However, it is essential to be mindful of safety and local regulations.
Health and Safety Tips for Paddleboarding
- Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when paddleboarding, regardless of your swimming ability.
- Check Weather Conditions: The weather in the Lake District can change rapidly. Check the forecast before heading out, and avoid paddleboarding in high winds or storms.
- Know Your Limits: Stick to areas that match your skill level. Beginners should start on calmer, smaller lakes before venturing into larger bodies of water.
- Stay Hydrated and Sun Safe: Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Buddy System: Paddleboard with a friend whenever possible. If you’re going solo, let someone know your plans and expected return time.
- Stay Clear of Motorised Boats: Be aware of other watercraft and give them plenty of space to avoid collisions.
More information about each of the Lakes You Can Paddleboard On?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive deeper into each lake where paddleboarding is allowed in the Lake District:
1. Lake Ullswater
Ullswater, often considered the most beautiful of the English lakes, offers an idyllic setting for paddleboarding. With its relatively calm waters and stunning surroundings, it is a favourite among paddlers of all skill levels.
- Why Ullswater?
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by majestic fells and lush greenery, Ullswater’s landscape is breathtaking.
- Peaceful Waters: The lake’s relatively calm conditions are perfect for a relaxed paddleboarding session.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including otters and various bird species.
For more details about this beautiful lake, check out our detailed post on Lake Ullswater.
2. Derwent Water
Located near Keswick, Derwent Water is another fantastic spot for paddleboarding. The lake is surrounded by some of the most picturesque scenery in the Lake District and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration.
- Why Derwent Water?
- Accessibility: Easily accessible with several launch points around the lake.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy views of Catbells and the surrounding fells as you paddle.
- Islands to Explore: The lake features several small islands, perfect for a mid-paddle break.
Discover more about this wonderful location in our post on Derwent Water and Bassenthwaite.
3. Lake Windermere
As the largest natural lake in England, Lake Windermere is the most accessible and popular lake for paddleboarding. Its vast expanse offers endless possibilities for exploration.
- Why Lake Windermere?
- Expansive Waters: Plenty of space to paddle and explore.
- Tourist Amenities: Numerous facilities and rental places available around the lake.
- Scenic Views: Stunning views of the surrounding fells and countryside.
Stay tuned for our upcoming detailed post on [Lake Windermere]!
4. Coniston Water
Coniston Water is another excellent paddleboarding destination, known for its tranquil waters and historical connections to Arthur Ransome’s “Swallows and Amazons.”
- Why Coniston Water?
- Calm Waters: Ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
- Rich History: Explore the areas that inspired “Swallows and Amazons.”
- Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views.
Look out for our upcoming detailed post on [Lake Coniston]!
6. Wastwater
Wastwater, the deepest lake in England, offers a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting for paddleboarding. Nestled in the Wasdale Valley, it is surrounded by some of the highest peaks in England, including Scafell Pike.
- Why Wastwater?
- Dramatic Scenery: Paddle in the shadow of towering mountains and enjoy the striking beauty of the valley.
- Deep Waters: Experience the unique sensation of paddling on the deepest lake in England.
- Remote Location: Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a tranquil experience.
7. Grasmere
Grasmere, one of the most charming and picturesque lakes in the Lake District, offers a wonderful paddleboarding experience. The lake is small and serene, making it ideal for a relaxing paddle.
- Why Grasmere?
- Compact Size: Perfect for beginners and those looking for a leisurely paddle.
- Literary Connections: The lake is closely associated with William Wordsworth, whose home, Dove Cottage, is nearby.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the village of Grasmere.
8. Crummock Water
Crummock Water, located between Buttermere and Loweswater, is another gem in the Lake District. It offers clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for paddleboarding.
- Why Crummock Water?
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery.
- Clear Waters: The lake’s crystal-clear waters make for a delightful paddling experience.
- Quiet Location: Enjoy a tranquil paddle with fewer visitors compared to some of the larger lakes.
9. Brotherswater
Brotherswater, a small lake in the eastern part of the Lake District, offers a peaceful and scenic paddleboarding experience. Its compact size makes it perfect for a short paddle. I used to pass brotherswater on a weekly basis when I’d head back to dance training on the fylde coast. I’d head from my home at the time in neighbouring Patterdale and sometimes stop to relax at the inn on the side of the lake before continuing up kirkstone pass. It’s stunning and when ullswater gets busy this place is ideal with great dramatic views to match. You also get protection from some of the fells surrounding it from the wind, which can give you extra time on the water, where Ullswater is more exposed.
There is parking at the Brotherswater Inn and they would usually just request that you purchase food from there. It’s a great place to stay or camp too.
Lakes You Can Paddleboard On with a Permit
While many lakes in the Lake District welcome paddleboarders freely, some require a permit to ensure the preservation of their natural beauty and to manage water traffic effectively. Here are the lakes where paddleboarding is allowed only with a permit:
Bassenthwaite Lake
Paddleboarding is permitted, but you must obtain a permit from the Lake District National Park Authority or the local marina. The lake is a designated National Nature Reserve, so permits help protect its unique wildlife and habitats.
Before heading out, be sure to check and obtain the necessary permits and check specific access points and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable paddleboarding experience.
Elterwater
This small lake, perfect for a short paddle, requires a permit to ensure that water quality and local wildlife are protected. I’ll be honest here, I haven’t spent much time on elterwater. I’ve stayed in the nearby village when hiking and climbing. I’ve spent more time at loughrigg tarn in all honesty. But I’ve always skimmed over Elterwater. It’s a little smaller than some other lakes and definitely worth a visit. I just get too distracted by the fells around langdales to spend time on the lake or wandering around here. As I write this; this is my cue to do so soon.
Rydal Water
Paddleboarding is allowed with a permit to maintain safety and control the number of users on the lake. Find out more about what to see and do around Rydal Water
Buttermere
Buttermere is a picturesque lake amidst dramatic landscapes. It is also out of the way from a lot of the crowds due to it’s location being more remote. Surrounded by tall peaks and maintained forrest, it’s incredibly photogenic. There is also a lovely Circular Walk around the lake that is mostly flat and accessible. Howeever you can only paddleboard here with a permit.
Loweswater
Loweswater is another place that is out of the way and not too far from crummock water. It has unique charm and often feels like you are the only person around when visiting. The scenery is stunning and dramatic too. To paddle here you will need a permit.
Esthwaite Water
Esthwaite Water, located between Windermere and Coniston, is a peaceful and serene lake. It is known for its rich wildlife and tranquil environment. It is a private fishery, though they allow some activity on the lake you would need to call and request You can call: (+44) 15394 36541
The lake is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is home to a variety of bird species, so there may be times of year where they will not allow this.
Which Lakes Can’t You Paddleboard On?
While many lakes in the Lake District welcome paddleboarders, some do not allow paddleboarding to protect wildlife or due to local regulations. Always check the local guidelines for each lake to ensure compliance with regulations and respect for the natural environment.
Ennerdale Water
Paddleboarding is not allowed according to the lake district website but other access such as kayaks and row boats are. These restrictions are due to conservation efforts to protect the fish and avoid people falling or going into the water. It is a lovely lake with stunning views and given it’s location, you can easily get away from the crowds. So whilst you cannot paddleboard on Ennerdale, it is definitely worth a visit. Check out out post on Ennerdale Water
Thirlmere
Thirlmere, located between Keswick and Grasmere, is a man-made reservoir that provides a unique paddleboarding experience. While paddleboarding is not allow, you can kayak and canoe on here. United utilities monitor water use and ensure the safety of all water users. Fines can come into place if these rules are not followed (and I know a few people who have been caught out simply from not checking and rocking up with their boards. One even got fined).
Haweswater
As a reservoir supplying drinking water, paddleboarding is not permitted here. It is a great lake and quite out of the way. I definitely recommend a walk around Haweswater and staying at the haweswater hotel which feels like you have gone back to an agatha Christie Era with it’s decor (in a very quirky way). It’s a shame you can’t paddle here but, when you visit you can see why. some parts of the lake don’t have much way of access, which could be dangerous if you had an emergency and needed to get off the water quickly.
Conclusion
The Lake District offers a diverse range of stunning locations for paddleboarding enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re seeking a calm and serene paddle on a smaller lake or an adventurous exploration of the larger lakes, the Lake District has something to offer. Make sure to check for any permits required and follow all safety guidelines to enjoy a fantastic paddleboarding adventure in this beautiful region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Stand Up Paddle Boarding in The Lake District, england
Do I need a permit to paddleboard in the Lake District?
Yes, most lakes in the Lake District require a permit for paddleboarding. Permits can usually be obtained from local tourist information centers or online. Always check the specific requirements for each lake before you go.
Can I rent paddleboarding equipment in the Lake District?
Yes, there are several rental places around the major lakes where you can rent paddleboards and other equipment. We will include detailed information about rental locations in our upcoming posts on each lake.
Is paddleboarding safe for beginners?
Yes, paddleboarding is generally safe for beginners, especially on the calmer lakes like Ullswater and Coniston Water. Always wear a life jacket and follow safety guidelines.
What is the best time of year to paddleboard in the Lake District?
The best time to paddleboard in the Lake District is during the warmer months from late spring to early autumn. The weather is more favorable, and the water temperatures are more comfortable.
Are there any guided paddleboarding tours available?
Yes, several companies offer guided paddleboarding tours in the Lake District. These tours can be a great way to explore the lakes with expert guidance.
Conclusion
The Lake District is a paddleboarding paradise, offering diverse and stunning locations for paddlers of all levels. Whether you’re seeking a serene and secluded paddle or an adventurous exploration of the larger lakes, you’ll find the perfect spot to launch your paddleboard. Keep an eye out for our upcoming posts.
Embark on your paddleboarding adventure in the Lake District and immerse yourself in the beauty of this remarkable region. Happy paddling!
Paddleboarding in the Lake District looks like an incredible experience—such a perfect way to take in the stunning scenery. Derwentwater and Ullswater sound especially peaceful, and I’d love to explore Windermere as well. Definitely adding this to my list for my next trip to the UK!