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Explore the Serene Waters of Portinscale: A 3-Hour Canoeing Adventure - Keswick

Explore the Serene Waters of Portinscale: A 3-Hour Canoeing Adventure

Portinscaleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels due to gentle paddling and calm waters

Overview

Glide across the tranquil waters of Derwentwater on this accessible 3-hour canoeing trip from Portinscale. Perfect for families, couples, and beginners, experience the Lake District’s stunning natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

Portinscale, England

Canoeing - 3 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

3 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

Wear a life jacket at all times

Safety first: always wear your provided life jacket to stay secure on the water.

Bring waterproof bags

Keep your belongings dry by storing them in waterproof bags during the canoe trip.

Check weather conditions beforehand

Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly; consult local forecasts before heading out.

Use sun protection

Even on cloudy days, UV rays reflect off the water—apply sunscreen and wear a hat.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Otters
  • Kingfishers

History

Derwentwater has inspired countless poets during the Romantic era, reflecting the Lake District’s rich cultural heritage.

Conservation

Efforts focus on preserving water quality and shoreline habitats; visitors are encouraged to minimize waste and respect wildlife.

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Adventure Hotspots in Keswick

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

spring specific

Quick-dry clothing

Essential

Light attire helps keep you comfortable when paddling in warmer weather.

summer specific

Insulating layers

Essential

Layers help keep you warm as temperatures drop during autumn paddles.

fall specific

Warm gloves

Protect your hands from cold while maintaining grip on paddles during winter trips.

winter specific