Fancy giving paddleboarding a try? Here’s our beginner’s guide to paddleboarding on Lake Windermere in the Lake District.
We love to try different water sports, and since stand-up paddleboarding has become so increasingly popular, why wouldn’t we want to try it? We found it great exercise, fun, and a relaxing and mindful activity. Even as total beginners, we found it easy to pick up the technique, and I can’t wait to get out on the boards again. Here’s our beginner’s guide to stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Windermere.
First, what is stand-up paddleboarding?
A paddleboard is similar to a surfboard. It is longer, wider, and sometimes thicker, making it much more stable and allowing you to stand up on it quite easily. You have a leash that attaches to the ankle, keeping you connected to the board so that it cannot drift away if you fall into the water. You then use a paddle to propel yourself forward. Paddleboarding is an excellent workout for core body strength as you use your hips and legs to help you balance. Learn more about the benefits of paddleboarding.
Why is Lake Windermere great for paddleboarding?
Lake Windermere is an excellent spot for beginner and expert paddleboarders alike. It is the largest natural Lake in England and is known for its stunning views and relatively calm waters, making it ideal for beginners to practice.
Just always be aware of the weather and its impact on the water.
The availability of rental facilities and beginner-friendly launch points on Lake Windermere is perfect for those new to the activity.
Can you self-launch your paddleboard on Lake Windermere?
Yes, you can self-launch your paddleboard on Lake Windermere. Just pick somewhere suitable where you won’t put yourself or others in danger. Be mindful of traffic on the water, and let somebody know before you head out.
Is paddleboarding on Lake Windermere suitable for kids?
Paddleboarding on Lake Windermere can be suitable for kids, but it largely depends on their swimming ability and comfort in the water.
It’s important to ensure they wear appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets, and are always supervised by adults. As long as these precautions are taken, paddleboarding on Lake Windermere is fantastic for kids. It’s a great introduction to watersports.
Is paddleboarding on Lake Windermere safe? What are the dangers?
Like any sport, paddleboarding on Lake Windermere can be safe if you take the necessary precautions.
Always check the weather before you set off, especially the wind direction and strength. Take a mobile phone in a dry case and always wear a PFD / buoyancy aid. Some potential dangers to be aware of include strong winds, boat traffic, and cold water conditions.
Most lakes in the Lake District are great for SUP, but Derwent Water, Windermere, Coniston, and Ullswater are the most accessible and popular.
We hired paddleboards from Windermere Canoe Kayak in Ambleside
We stayed at Ambleside YHA (Waterhead) and hired our paddleboards from Windermere Canoe Kayak in Ambleside. The Ambleside YHA is a great place to stay; it’s in an excellent location on the edge of Windermere.
They offer paddleboards (no experience necessary). The hire cabin for Windermere Canoe Kayak is located in the lakeside garden of YHA Ambleside (right next to Waterhead Pier).
It is the perfect location to explore the northern end of Windermere. It is quiet, has a small amount of boat traffic, and is ideal for beginners.
Hire is available during the summer holidays and on selected dates. The YHA’s cafe/bar is great and offers takeaway, ready to provide you with cake, tea, or even a beer after a journey on the water.
Included in the hire;
- Paddleboard, paddle, buoyancy aid.
- A dry bag, if requested.
- A brief instruction before hire.
The instruction was brilliant, and they gave us tips on how to stand up. Essentially, you have the freedom of the whole lake—time permitting!
The staff happily pointed out the best and most scenic locations and gave us rough travel times. We asked if we could stop and get out anywhere, and they gladly showed us the safest place to do this.
We loved that there was parking nearby
The YHA property has a free car park on-site for guests and patrons. There is limited on-street parking in front of the pier and Lake Road (a three-minute walk). There is also a pay and display car park two minutes walk from the hostel on Borrans Road
Where can I hire paddleboards on Lake Windermere?
- Lake District Paddle Boarding: This company is dedicated solely to SUP. Lake District Paddle Boarding covers a large area of Cumbria and provides lessons, board hire, and guided SUP safari trips. www.lakedistrictpaddleboarding.co.uk
- West Lakes Adventure: Half-day or full-day guided sessions are available. www.westlakesadventure.co.uk
- Ullswater Paddle Boarding: You can hire SUPs or join Ullswater Paddle Boarding for lessons and tours on Ullswater. www.ullswaterpaddleboarding.co.uk
- Coniston Boating Centre: Hire only available at the Coniston Boating Centre, located on the shores of Coniston Water. www.conistonboatingcentre.co.uk
- Derwent Water Arena: You can book a lesson or hire a paddleboard. Hire includes wetsuits and the use of the changing facilities and car parks. Hot showers are also available for an additional fee. www.derwentwatermarina.co.uk
Where else can I try stand-up paddleboarding in the Lake District?
As well as paddleboarding on Windermere, you can also paddleboard on Derwent Water, Ullswater, and Coniston Water without a permit. They are the four largest lakes in the Lake District.
However, if you wish to paddle on Bassenthwaite Lake, you must obtain a permit from the LDNP, which costs £7 per day. Additionally, permits for paddleboarding on Buttermere, Crummock Water, and Loweswater can be obtained from the National Trust for £5 per day.
Paddleboarding on Wastwater is permitted. Please note that United Utilities controls Haweswater, Thirlmere, and Ennerdale Water; stand-up paddleboarding is prohibited on these lakes.
Grassmere allows paddling, but Rydal Water does not. Esthwaite Water is a private fishery, so no paddling is permitted, and Brothers Water, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), also does not allow stand-up paddleboarding.
You can hire a stand-up paddle board, book a lesson, or take and launch your own.
What should I wear for paddleboarding?
If you are a beginner at paddleboarding, prepare to fall in!
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet that won’t soak up water and become heavy. I wore light swimwear, a vest top, shorts, and a light throw-on shirt, as it was a little chilly. I was comfortable.
Some activity companies will provide wetsuits, or you can bring your own to make yourself more comfortable.
Make sure to take a towel and a change of clothing, just in case. I went barefoot and took flip-flops, but light trainers or wet shoes are great, too. Many boards will have straps at the front of the board so you can secure a dry bag under it. Don’t pack anything too heavy.
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses if it is sunny.
Tips of paddleboarding on Windermere
Check the weather: A calm day with little wind is perfect for beginners to master their techniques. However, the weather can change quickly, so it is important to be aware.
Look at the horizon: When paddling, we naturally look down at the board. However, for the best stability, you want to keep your head up, your back straight, and your body weight over your toes.
Stay clear of boats: Be mindful of other water users. Ensure you have plenty of room to practice standing, falling, and paddling.
If you fall, try to fall away from your board: Your board is attached to your leash and won’t go away, but falling well clear of the board will let you fall without hurting yourself on the board or the fins.
Take time: Getting comfortable with your technique will take a little while. There’s no rush. Enjoy the views.
What to do in an emergeny
- Remain calm to assess the situation and make decisions rationally.
- If you are in distress, signal for help by waving your hands, blowing a whistle, or using any other signalling device you may have.
- If you fall off the paddleboard, try to get back on it as soon as possible. Use the leash to stay connected to the board.
- Wear a personal flotation device to help you stay afloat and conserve energy.
- If possible, paddle to the nearest shore or a safe location to get assistance.
- Use a mobile phone to call for help. If there are people nearby, shout for assistance.
Remember, prevention is critical.
Always check weather and water conditions before paddleboarding on Lake Windermere, wear an appropriate flotation device, let somebody know you are going out on the water and when you have returned, and attach a dry bag to your board with your phone and other safety items.
Have you tried stand-up paddleboarding on Windermere? Let us know what you think of it in the comments.
