In and On the Water
Lake District boat trips and Watersports
“Believe me my young friend, there is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.”
So says Ratty to Mole in the classic novel ‘The Wind in the Willows‘.
2 ways to get in or on the water in The Lakes
It is the Lake District after all, so it would be a rum do if you didn’t spend at least some of your time on the water. Here’s a few ways you can get off dry land during your next visit.
Lake District Cruises
Windermere Boat Trips
The best way to see England’s largest lake is to book yourself on a tour with Windermere Lake Cruises.
They run a range of scenic cruises up and down the lake from various start points – and you can even combine a cruise with a visit to a local attraction or two to make a full day of it.
Keswick Launch Co.
Set sail on a peaceful 50-minute tour of Derwentwater on one of the Keswick Launch Co’s four launches and take in views of Skiddaw, Catbells and the Jaws of Borrowdale.
You can also hire a rowing boat or motorboat if you want to explore the lake and its islands at your own pace.
Ullswater ‘Steamer’
Ullswater can reasonably lay claim to being the Lake District’s most beautiful lake, so judge for yourself by climbing aboard one of the Ullswater ‘Steamers’.
Sailing the length of the lake from Glenridding to Pooley Bridge, you can also hop off at one of the four piers if you plan to walk part of the Ullswater Way.
Coniston Steam Yacht Gondola
Fancy chugging along on Coniston Water on a Victorian steam-powered yacht? Well, why wouldn’t you?
Run by the National Trust, the Steam Yacht Gondola is a real piece of Lake District history, and has been carrying passengers for over 160 years.
With three different cruises to choose from, including a full lake cruise, there’s no better way to take in the splendour of the surrounding fells.
Water Sports in the Lake District
SUP, Canoeing and Kayaking
The lakes of the Lake District are perfect for canoeing and kayaking. You can paddle through calm waters or explore the more challenging rapids.
The Lake District Gov site has a great guide with tips on where to hire equipment, and where to go once you have your kit.
Sailing in the Lake District
There are several sailing lakes in the Lake District, including Windermere, Ullswater, and Coniston Water. You can rent a boat or take a sailing lesson.
Fancy trying your hand at the tiller? Have a word with Chris Plumb at Sail Windermere.
Go wild swimming in the Lakes, Tarns, and Rivers
If you prefer to get in the water rather than on it, then have a go at wild swimming. As well as the lakes, the Lake District is full of tarns, rivers, streams, hidden pools and secluded coves to take the plunge in.
Take a look at our wild swimming guide, which tells you all you need to know about getting started, staying safe and some of the best places to dive in.
Ghyll scrambling in the Lake District
Ghyll scrambling is a fun and adventurous activity that involves scrambling over rocks and waterfalls in a mountain stream. It is a great way to get up close to the natural beauty of the Lake District.
Canyoning is a more extreme activity that involves abseiling, swimming, and jumping down waterfalls. It is a great way to test your limits and experience the thrill of adventure.
More parking and transport options around the Lake District
Visiting the Lake District in May
Look forward to warmer weather, longer days, fewer (hopefully) rain showers than April, and it’s the start of festival season.
Lake District bike hire
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride along the lake shore or a more challenging biking adventure, you’ll find something to enjoy
Visiting the Lake District in March
Planning to visit the Lake District in March? Good idea. Winter’s packing its bags and the first signs of spring are creeping in!
Visiting the Lake District in April
Expect warmer weather, colourful flowers – daffodils are still strutting their stuff before the bluebells start blanketing the landscape
Visiting the Lake District in February
If you’re planning to visit the beautiful Lake District in February, you can expect snow-capped fells, quieter roads, and fewer crowds!
Keswick car parks – when and where can I park?
Keswick is the most popular tourist destination in the northern Lake District so, as you might expect, parking is at a premium
Finding a Lake District parking place and other transport tips
Check out these alternate ways to get around or the best places to get parked once you reach your destination town or village.
Looking for Parking in Coniston?
It’s an age-old problem in the Lake District. Where can I park? It’s a beautiful place so everybody wants to come. And most people drive..
Parking In Windermere – When and Where can I park?
It’s beautiful here so everybody wants to come. Which means it gets busy, so parking is at a premium and it’s not cheap
Ambleside boat trips and water sports
You can’t visit the Lakes without taking to the water at some point. And, one of the best ways to see the spectacular scenery is from a boat!
Hawkshead Parking – 2 places to find a space
Hawkshead village centre is a car-free zone, however there are still a couple of car parks and ways to get into and around the village!
Where can I park in Ambleside?
It’s an age-old problem in the Lake District. Where can I park? It’s a beautiful place so everybody wants to come. And most people drive..
Discover more of the Lake District
With weekly articles highlighting the very best of the Lake District, there’s always something to get you inspired for your next trip!
If you’d like to be the first to hear of our guides, all our new property listings, events around the lakes, and our last-minute deals…
More things to do in the Lake District
Film and TV locations in the Lake District
Film and TV locations in the Lake District. Explore the beauty of the Lake District through its iconic film and TV locations.
Visiting the Lake District in May
Look forward to warmer weather, longer days, fewer (hopefully) rain showers than April, and it’s the start of festival season.
Explore the shops of Coniston
Coniston can hardly be described as a major shopping destination, but you can find everything you need in this little Lake District village!
Museums in the Lake District
You may head to the Lakes for the fresh air and scenery, but, for those wet days how about a trip to one of the many museums?
Coniston Boat Trips
Discover the gems of Coniston Water on a tranquil boat trip. Glide across the shimmering waters, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery!
Wildlife in the Lake District
Come and see The Lake Districts whole menagerie of local creatures! From alpacas to otters, red deer to seals, and lots more.
