Discover the peaceful past time of paddle boarding in the Lake District. Explore our world famous lakes, surrounded by stunning views of the fells. It’s a perfect outdoor adventure to soak up Cumbria’s natural beauty.
With so many beautiful lakes and tarns, the Lake District offers an incredible range of places to paddle board. Whether you’ve got your board packed in the car and pump at the ready, or you’re on the lookout for a local paddle board hire, you’re in the right place.
However, it’s important to understand the area and the potential impact of water activities on the environment. The lakes and tarns are home to unique species of flora and fauna, such as floating water plantain and the natterjack toad, and are part of delicate eco systems that must be respected. Non-native species can easily hitch a ride on your paddle board, so it’s essential to clean your equipment thoroughly after use, and follow any signs or local guidance that prohibits paddleboarding in particular locations.
For more information about local wildlife, visit the Cumbria Wildlife Trust website.
Where to paddle board in the Lake District
Popular and scenic spots for paddle boarding in the Lake District include Windermere, and Coniston water. Each lake offers a unique vibe and experience. Paddle boarding is prohibited at Rydal Water.
Windermere is the largest, with lots of activity from boats and ferries, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. Bowness and Ambleside, both located on the shores of Windermere, are great places to explore before or after your paddle, with plenty of cafes and bars to enjoy.
Windermere offers multiple spots to enjoy paddle boarding, but extra caution is needed due to the high number of boats on the lake. Along with the usual paddle board safety advice (more on that later), it’s important to stay aware of other watercraft. Millerground is a great location to launch your own board, or if you’re new to paddle boarding, there are plenty of places offering rentals and instructors to help you get started.
Coniston offers a charming lakeside village atmosphere, with plenty of parking nearby and easy access to the water, making it another excellent choice for a paddle. Grab a coffee at one of the local cafes or enjoy a cold beer at a pub afterwards.
Paddle board hire in The Lake District
For great paddle boarding experiences, check out these locations:
- Brockhole on Windermere
- Watersports Centre at Low Wood Bay
- Windermere Canoe Kayak Hire at YHA Ambleside
- Coniston Boating Centre in Coniston
Paddle Board Safety Information
As with any water sport, it’s important to familiarise yourself with safety advice to ensure you stay safe whilst enjoying your time on the water. Most importantly, always wear a flotation device such as a life jacket. For safety tips particular to the Lake District, you can watch this helpful video: Lake District Paddle Boarding Safety.
Paddle boarding locations Lake District
Paddle Board Rental Locations:
Coniston Boating Centre
- Address: Coniston Boating Centre, Lake Road, Coniston, Cumbria LA21 8AN
- What3Words: ///pushed.meanders.really
- OS Grid Reference: SD 30776 97052
- OS 6-Figure Grid Reference: SD307970
Brockhole on Windermere
- Address: Windermere, Cumbria LA23 1FF
- What3Words: ///booster.promising.founders
- OS Grid Reference: NY 39034 01028
- OS 6-Figure Grid Reference: NY390010
YHA Ambleside
- Address: Waterhead, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0EU
- What3Words: ///jots.feasts.cliff
- OS Grid Reference: NY 37681 03062
- OS 6-Figure Grid Reference: NY376030
Low Wood Bay Watersports Centre
- Address: Low Wood Bay Watersports, Ambleside, Windermere, LA23 1LP
- What3Words: ///aware.warblers.garage
- OS Grid Reference: NY 38577 01955
- OS 6-Figure Grid Reference: NY385019
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