Boat Hire and Lake Cruises

Often overlooked, the Lake District is great for boat hire and cruises. If you are looking for things to do in the Lake District, it might not be the first thing you think of, but it is a great way to see another side of the lakes. There are four main lakes in Cumbria, where visitors can enjoy a cruise or hire boats.  In the north of the county, there’s Derwentwater and Ullswater, whilst in the south, there’s Windermere and Coniston Water.





Derwentwater

A dog enjoying a cold morning on DerwentwaterWith its pretty islands, traditional trees and well-proportioned size, this is possibly the most attractive lake of all.

Keswick Launch

Within a short walk from Keswick town centre is the Keswick Launch.  For cruises, rowing boats and self-drive motor boat hire, check out the Keswick Launch website: www.keswick-launch.co.uk

Derwent Water Marina

Hire Kayaks, Canoes, Rowing Boats, Sailing Dinghies and Windsurfers.  They also offer tuition for all the activities and can arrange guided trips around the lake.  www.derwentwatermarina.co.uk

Nichol End Marina

Hire Kayaks, Canoes, Rowing Boats, Sailing Dinghies, motor boats and Windsurfers. They also offer tuition for all the activities and can arrange guided trips around the lake.  www.nicholendmarine.co.uk/activities.php

Stunning scenery at Derwentwater, near Keswick


Ullswater

Ullswater Steamer, Lake DistrictWith three distinct bends, Ullswater offers stunning scenery, especially around Glenridding.

Ullswater Steamers

Take a leisurely cruise on Ullswater on one of the fantastic Ullswater Steamers or combine it with a walk. www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Glenridding Sailing Centre

Sailing boats, canoes and kayaks can be hired, plus tuition is also offered.  www.glenriddingsailingcentre.co.uk

Lakeland Boating Hire, Pooley Bridge

Motorboats, canoes and rowing boats can be hired.  www.lakelandboathire.co.uk

Ullswater SteamerSt Patrick’s Boat and Bike Hire

Motor boats, rowing boats and mountain bike hire.  www.stpatricksboatlandings.co.uk

Ullswater Caravan Camping and Marine Park

Bring your own boat to use on the lake or take part in some of the activities offered.  www.ullswatercaravanpark.co.uk







Windermere

Cruiser at Waterhead, Ambleside, WindermereAlthough you are not truly in high mountain territory, Windermere remains the most popular of all the lakes.

Windermere Lake Cruises

A large fleet of cruisers and steamers; why not combine a ride with our Brockhole to Ambleside walk?  www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk

Low Wood Watersports Centre

Hire and tuition for motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks, canoes, waterskiing and more.  www.englishlakes.co.uk/watersports/index.aspx

Windermere Lake Holidays

Houseboats and moorings.  www.lakewindermere.net


Coniston

Coniston is much quieter than its neighbour, Windermere, in the south of the county and offers fantastic scenery.

Coniston Boating Centre

The Coniston Boating Centre has a range of choices, including Electric boats, motor boats, rowing boats, sailing dinghies, open Canadian canoes and kayaks. You can even save 10% if you book online over the walk-up prices.   www.conistonboatingcentre.co.uk/blog/offers

Motor Boats:

These guys can seat up to 8 people, so you can explore the beautiful scenery of Coniston Water.

Rowing Boats:

The classic row boat. If you want to see the beautiful scenery, whiteout the distraction of a motor, then this is the way. The serene feeling of being one with nature is just beautiful.

Canadian Canoes

These are probably my favourite type of watercraft simply because everyone can row, unlike a rowing boat where it’s left to one poor person. These are often used in team-building exercises for this exact reason – great fun for everyone.

Paddleboards

Like a surfboard for when there is no surf, so you get a paddle instead. Great fun and a good test of balance for those interested in surfing.

Sailing dinghies

For the avid sailer, they also have sailing dinghies; why not give it a go?

Coniston Launch

Take a leisurely cruise on Coniston or combine it with a walk.  www.conistonlaunch.co.uk

Lake District Coast

There are three main towns with marinas: