Cumbria: where scenic beauty meets adventure.
Fancy gliding through serene lakes surrounded by lush hills?
Discover the best places to paddle board in Cumbria for an unforgettable experience.
Embark on a journey through the captivating landscapes of the UK’s Lake District. Are you ready for the adventure?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Cumbria
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Derwentwater
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Keswick Foreshore (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, can be windier in the afternoon
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Autumn
- Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, swans, and fish
- Landmarks & Views: Cat Bells, Friar’s Crag, Borrowdale Valley
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to lake rules, avoid going out in strong winds, be mindful of other watercrafts
Derwentwater, one of the most picturesque spots in the Lake District, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The pristine lake is surrounded by mountains and wooded areas, providing an incredible backdrop for paddle boarding adventures.
Paddlers can enjoy the many islands scattered across the lake, each offering unique views and terrain to explore.
#2 Windermere
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Bowness-on-Windermere (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Mostly calm, can get windy in the afternoon
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Autumn
- Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, fish
- Landmarks & Views: Rolling countryside, picturesque villages, Lake District mountains
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow lake rules, avoid sailing during strong winds, be aware of boat traffic
Windermere, crowned as England’s largest lake, boasts 12 miles of glorious waterways flanked by charming villages, lush countryside, and impressive mountain views.
The serene and spacious lake, with several islands and bays, offers ample exploration opportunities for paddle boarders of all skill levels.
#3 Ullswater
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Glenridding or Pooley Bridge (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Autumn
- Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, fish, deer, and red squirrels
- Landmarks & Views: Helvellyn Mountain, Arthur’s Pike, High Street Roman Road, Patterdale Valley
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect lake rules, stay mindful of changing weather conditions, avoid strong winds
Ullswater, the Lake District’s second largest lake, stretches through the awe-inspiring Patterdale Valley.
Surrounded by a dramatic mountainous landscape and dotted with quaint villages, Ullswater provides a tranquil and inspiring setting for paddle boarders looking to immerse themselves in breathtaking nature.
#4 Coniston Water
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Coniston Boating Centre (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, moderate winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Autumn
- Wildlife Encounters: Fish, ducks, herons, swans
- Landmarks & Views: Coniston Fells, Old Man of Coniston, Brantwood, Coniston Village
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of boat traffic, follow lake rules, watch for weather changes, wear appropriate buoyancy aids
Coniston Water is a picturesque lake located in the heart of the Lake District and famously inspired Arthur Ransome’s “Swallows and Amazons.”
With its dramatic mountain scenery and historic landmarks, it offers a captivating setting for paddle boarders who relish a blend of nature, peace, and serenity.
#5 Grasmere
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Faeryland Tea Garden (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Autumn
- Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, fish
- Landmarks & Views: Loughrigg Fell, Grasmere Village, Rydal Water
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, respect wildlife, adhere to lake rules
Grasmere, a tranquil lake blanketed by lush hills and rich woodlands, was once beloved by Romantic poet William Wordsworth.
Paddle boarders can enjoy serene waters and bask in the beauty of nature, all while exploring the enchanting Grasmere and Rydal Water, linked by the River Rothay.
#6 Bassenthwaite Lake
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Scarness Bay (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, possible winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Autumn
- Wildlife Encounters: Ospreys, fish, waterfowl
- Landmarks & Views: Skiddaw Mountain, Dodd Wood, Mirehouse Historic Mansion
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect private properties, be cautious of bird nesting sites, adhere to lake rules and regulations
Bassenthwaite Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the Northern Lake District. Its tranquil waters, flanked by the magnificent Skiddaw Mountain and picturesque woods, offer an idyllic setting for paddle boarding enthusiasts.
The lake is also a haven for wildlife, including the majestic ospreys which soar above and breed at Dodd Wood.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Cumbria?
Paddle boarding in Cumbria is popular on Lake Windermere, Derwentwater, and Ullswater due to their scenic beauty.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Cumbria?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Cumbria.
When is the best time to paddle board in Cumbria?
Summer and early Autumn are typically the best times to paddle board in Cumbria due to milder water and air temperatures.
