easy
2 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; light to moderate balance and endurance recommended.
Discover the calm of Derwentwater before daybreak with Nichol End Marine’s two-hour early morning paddleboard hire. Glide through tranquil waters and spot local wildlife as the sun rises over the Lake District.
Book by 6pm previous day
Fancy exploring Derwentwater just as the day is beginning? Before work or life gets in the way? Before the lake gets busy?
The sunrise sessions start about 20minutes before sunrise - there is enough light to navigate by and ensures you have enough time to get out onto the lake to see the sunrise.
The lake is usually very quiet at this time of day, and we have staff getting started making the scones and baking for the day so we can organise this for you.
The morning is a fantastic time to explore the lake, and gives you your best chance to spot deer, kingfishers, otters, ospreys and a host of other wildlife.
2 hours
Paddleboarding is quickly becoming the most popular water sport in the Lakes. Gliding gracefully across the water, wobbling and plunging into the water because you can't stop laughing or powering down the lake for a whole body workout... paddleboarding really does have something for everyone.
Paddleboarding has quickly grown from a novel new sport to one of the most popular water sports in the UK. There's a very good reason for that.
If you are feeling emotionally wrung out from life's challenges right now, hire a board and just float peacefully across the water. There's nothing more peaceful than gliding gracefully across the water with just the sound of gently lapping water for company. In the safe area that is free from launches, lie down on the board and let your worries drift away. (Don't close your eyes though - you need to stay aware of other lake users). We've even had guests who practice yoga on their board.
If you are in need of a jolly good chuckle - hire with friends and you can guarantee an afternoon of laughter as you race to be the first to stand and challenge yourselves to wobble competitions to discover who can stay on for the longest.
You don't need any special abilities or requirements to come along and try paddleboarding. You can sit, kneel or stand on the board. Our instructors can give you basic tips on balance and manoeuvring the board
Freshly washed and sanitised 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 paddleboarding 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.
Please bring suitable footwear that you don't mind getting wet. Wet shoes or boots are ideal, but not essential.
Check in at Nichol End Marine at least 15 minutes before your session to get fitted with gear and receive a quick safety briefing.
Choose shoes that can get wet or muddy to stay comfortable during launch and while on the water.
Keep awareness of other lake users and avoid closing your eyes when lying on the board for safety.
Mornings on the lake can be chilly; wear a light waterproof layer that you can shed if the sun warms up the air.
Derwentwater has been a central feature of Lake District culture and tourism since the 19th century, inspiring poets and painters alike.
Nichol End Marine supports sustainable recreation by using eco-friendly gear and promoting ‘leave no trace’ principles.
Included in hire, keeps you warm and comfortable on the water.
all specific
Mandatory for safety, provided by Nichol End Marine.
all specific
Protects against wind and occasional rain on cooler mornings.
spring|fall|winter specific
Helps keep your feet comfortable when entering and exiting the water.
all specific