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Water Activities: Nichol End Marine Canoeing Adventure - Ambleside

Water Activities: Nichol End Marine Canoeing Adventure

Portinscaleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, moderate paddling experience recommended for comfort

Overview

Discover the tranquility of Lake Windermere on a guided five-hour canoeing trip at Nichol End Marine. Glide past scenic vistas and spot local wildlife in one of England’s most stunning freshwater landscapes.

Portinscale, England

Canoeing - 5 hours

All ages welcome • Great for couples! • Family friendly - can be rafted for stability

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About This Adventure

Experience the tranquility of the water on one of our Canoes!

Duration

5 hours

About

Canoeing is often chosen by those who want a drier paddling experience. With room for a picnic, children and even dogs, they are ideal for exploring everything the lake has to offer. We’ve heard rumours that you may even see pirates…

More info

Canoeing is a great way to explore all that Derwentwater has to offer. There's an abundance of wildlife to see - even an occasional alpaca having a drink from the waters edge. Why not collect a bag of scones and cakes from the cafe and stop for a picnic on one of the islands? St Herberts is the perfect place to look for pirates and we've had many reported sightings of faeries in middle. Shhhh....you have to be very quiet to be able to see them.

You don't need any special abilities or requirements to come along and enjoy canoeing. If you've never used a canoe before, just let our instructors know and they'll teach you the basics of balance and paddling.

What to bring

You will most likely stay fairly dry in a canoe, but it's always advisable to have a towel and change of clothing and footwear available just in case.

Buoyancy aids are available to hire free of charge and must be worn at all times on the water.

On a cold day - bring a warm jacket. On a hot day, you'll be grateful for sun tan lotion and sunglasses - the glare from the water is quite powerful.

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.

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.

Adventure Tips

Check weather conditions

Ensure good weather for safety and comfort before heading out.

Wear quick-drying clothing

Opt for lightweight, water-resistant gear to stay comfortable on the water.

Bring waterproof essentials

Pack waterproof bags for your valuables to keep them dry during paddling.

Start with a safety briefing

Attend the initial safety session to familiarize yourself with paddling techniques.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Ospreys soaring above the lake
  • Otters playing in the reeds

History

Lake Windermere has hosted boat races since the 19th century, making paddling here a deep-rooted local tradition.

Conservation

Nichol End Marine champions eco-friendly paddling practices, minimizing impact on the sensitive lake environment.

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Adventure Hotspots in Ambleside

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

Protects against unexpected rain and splashes during the paddle.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Comfortable water shoes

Essential

Provides grip and protection for your feet on wet surfaces.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Sunscreen and hat

Essential

Prevents sunburn in exposed water-side conditions.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Dry bag

Essential

Keeps your valuables safe and dry while paddling.