Explore Derwentwater in a kayak.
Kayaking is one of the most versatile sports on the water. Whether you want to paddle the lake at speed for exercise, play water polo or splashing games with friends, or explore as a family and picnic on the many islands; we have a wide range of boats available to ensure your session is exactly what you need.
Derwentwater is a beautiful lake to explore and kayaking is an excellent way to do it. The area is full of wildlife, so look out for many different birds, otters and sometimes even alpacas having a drink at the waters edge.
You don’t need any special abilities or requirements to come along and enjoy kayaking at Nichol End. The lake doesn’t judge the size of your wetsuit or the distance you can paddle. The sun will shine on your face (I’m an optimist) regardless of whether you have perfect balance or are as co-ordinated as a new born giraffe.
From £25 for 2 hours
Single sit on top.
Standard single sit on top kayak. Good for beginners. Up to 100kg (Mambo) or 110kg (Makao). We can also provide large single kayaks with a weight limit of 200kg, if required.
£25 for the first two hours plus £9 per hour for any additional hours
Single (TEMPO) for experienced paddlers
Single sit on top, good for more experienced paddlers. Fast moving and good for getting round the lake quickly. Up to 130kg.
£25 for the first two hours plus £9 per hour for any additional hours
Double sit on top
2 adults and 1 small child or dog. Can also be set up for the larger single paddler or if you have a lot of kit to transport. Up to 190kg.
£36 for the first two hours plus £12 per hour for any additional hours
Quad sit on top
Load of legroom for 2 people, can also be configured for 3 (2A and a larger child) or 4 (2A and 2 smaller children). Up to 260kg.
£42 for the first two hours and £14 per hour for any additional hours
Children Welcome
We know exactly what it’s like to have small children who tire easily and want to be out on the water. You need them to be safe and secure, having fun but be able to rest when they are tired. That’s exactly what we can provide with our triple and quad sized kayaks. There’s even space for those all important drinks and snacks! Then when the children grow in size, energy and abilities, they’ll want their own kayak and some fun games and challenges to keep them entertained.
Most children can manage a kayak from 8 years old. If you are unsure of how your child will manage, we can provide a towline. If there is a child under 16 in a group, then an adult over 18 must be present, within a minutes paddle from the child.
Younger children are very welcome but we will carefully risk assess on the day, the current and forecasted weather, lake conditions and abilities to ensure the safety of all customers. If the activity you have booked cannot proceed, then we will offer an alternative activity or a refund. If you wish to discuss your family’s requirements in advance of booking, please give us a call or send us an email.
Dogs Welcome
Well behaved and happy dogs are very welcome on our kayaks and we love to see them enjoying the lake. Please make sure that you pick up their waste. If your dog is unhappy on the water or will dive around and make you capsize then we advise leaving them at home.
What to bring
Wetsuits and buoyancy aids are included in your hire fee. We have a wide range of sizes and age ranges available. If you don’t want to wear one of our wetsuits, we’d advise either bringing your own or a change of clothes. Part of the fun of kayaking is getting wet, so please don’t wear, or take on the water, anything that you would mind getting wet or possibly muddy. Buoyancy aids are essential and must be worn at all times on the water.
Due to changes in our insurance, we have to insist on footwear being worn on the boats. Please bring suitable footwear that you don’t mind getting wet. Old trainers, wet shoes or boots are ideal.
A towel is very useful for drying off and getting changed.
Electronics and water do not mix well. Soggy car keys, phones and cameras make customers cry and make us all sad. Please either bring or buy a dry bag, or leave your valuables at home. Small dry bags are widely available online or we have a selection available for sale at Nichol End.
Covid Safety Information
Buoyancy aids and Wetsuits are available free of charge. These will be freshly washed and sanitised (but may be a bit damp). Please ensure you arrive in plenty of time to get changed.
Kayak Briefing
What you need to know when hiring a sit on top kayak on Derwentwater.
FAQ’s
Dogs, kids, bad weather, kit lists… All the info we think you might want can be found here…
Covid Information
Find out how we plan to keep all our customers and staff safe during covid 19.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
See here for our cancellation policy and a nifty link to message us a refund request.
Hire Agreement
When you make a booking you are accepting our hire agreement. So have a read!
If you have any questions or queries then either ask on the day, drop us an email or give us a ring.