Kayak across Ullswater’s crystal-clear waters with Waterside Kayak Hire and enjoy stunning Lake District scenery. Perfect for beginners and families, this adventure offers a safe and memorable way to connect with nature.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners
Wildlife
History
Ullswater has been a popular sailing and tourism spot since the Victorian era, drawing visitors with its striking scenery.
Conservation
Waterside Kayak Hire and the Lake District actively promote eco-friendly practices, including encouraging paddlers to respect wildlife and carry out planned cleanup efforts.
Ullswater Wake and Surf
Kayak across Ullswater’s crystal-clear waters with Waterside Kayak Hire and enjoy stunning Lake District scenery. Perfect for beginners and families, this adventure offers a safe and memorable way to connect with nature.
Ullswater Wake and Surf operates from Howtown on Ullswater, offering a range of guided watersports, equipment hire and coached sessions across both Waterside and Park Foot locations. The business provides wakesurfing, kneeboarding, paddleboarding, kayak hire, canoe hire, rowing boat hire and skippered luxury boat charters that accommodate groups up to eight for watersport activity and sightseeing. Several activities include professional coaching and safety briefings, and most bookings come with all necessary equipment supplied.
Sessions are structured to suit different ages and experience levels: beginners can try paddleboarding, sit-on-top kayaks and kneeboarding — with coaching aimed at quick, safe learning — while experienced riders can join the Waterside Surf Club and coached wakesurfing sessions. Park Foot offers additional outdoor activities such as private axe throwing and archery sessions for groups, plus paddleboard and kayak hire for exploring the lake from multiple launch points.
The operation emphasises safety, small group sizes and qualified instruction. Equipment ranges from wakesurf and kneeboard gear to canoes and sit-on-top kayaks, with lifejackets and safety briefings included. The Waterside Surf Club runs weekly Friday evening sessions from May through September, and the Waterside Luxury Boat Charter provides skippered options for groups wanting a relaxed or sport-focused day on Ullswater. All descriptions and session formats reflect the provider’s stated offerings at Howtown and Park Foot on Ullswater.
Location
Howtown, England
On the shores of Ullswater
Group Capacity
Up to 8 guests
Small, intimate sessions
Equipment
All equipment included
Boards, kayaks and safety gear
Seasonal Sessions
May–September
Weekly Friday Surf Club evenings
Secure small-group coaching, equipment-included hires, or a luxury charter from Howtown — book online for available dates and seasons.
Wear and bring essentials
Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat for sun protection during your paddle.
Check weather conditions
Always confirm weather before headed out; calm lakes are safest and most enjoyable.
Start early in the day
Paddling in the morning can provide calmer waters and more wildlife sightings.
Follow safety instructions
Listen carefully to staff instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Flip-flops or water shoes
Good footwear to keep your feet comfortable and protected while launching and returning.
summer
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect skin and eyes from UV rays during your water adventure.
summer
Light rain jacket
Optional for unexpected weather changes.
spring;fall;winter
Dry bag for personal items
Keep your valuables dry while paddling.