Can children row the boats?

Yes, children can row but must be supervised by an adult at all times; it’s recommended to swap seats for breaks.

Are dogs allowed on the boats?

Yes, dogs are welcome onboard, but total weight including dogs must not exceed 310kg per boat.

Is prior rowing experience required?

No prior experience is necessary; brief instruction is provided before hire to ensure confidence and safety.

What safety equipment is included?

Each rental includes buoyancy aids that must be worn by all passengers while on the water.

Can I swim from the boat?

Swimming from the boats is not permitted for safety reasons.

Are there restrictions on where I can row?

Rowing is restricted to Ullswater only; going down the River Greta or beyond is prohibited.

Rowing Boat Hire on Ullswater with Ullswater Wake and Surf | Guided Tour | Fishing

Ullswater, England’s second-largest lake, offers a fresh perspective far removed from urban rush, and Ullswater Wake and Surf invites adventurers to experience it uniquely via rowing boat hire. Located near Howtown in Cumbria, this opportunity delivers a hands-on connection with the lake’s calm waters beneath the sweeping fells of the Lake District National Park. Here, visitors can take a leisurely trip in a sturdy rowing boat carrying up to five people—perfect for families, friends, or small groups looking to fish, picnic, or simply drift through pristine views.

Unlike motorized craft, rowing boats offer quiet immersion, letting you hear the dip of oars and the distant calls of local waterfowl. Ullswater itself is ringed by steep valleys and ancient woodland, featuring geology carved by glaciers that shaped its U-shaped basin. The water is deep and clear, bordered by crags and picturesque islands like the renowned “Island of Mists.” Wildlife includes sightings of ospreys diving for fish, and if patience prevails, the shy red squirrel inhabiting nearby forests.

Ullswater Wake and Surf makes access easy, providing flexible rental options from one hour to full-day hires. Each boat comes equipped with safety gear, including buoyancy aids, and a concise briefing ensures all rowers feel confident before setting off. The company’s local roots and focused service make it a standout choice for those seeking quiet adventure on one of England’s most scenic lakes.

This is an experience designed for all skill levels and ages, requiring only moderate physical effort and a willingness to engage with the environment at a gentle pace. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon paddle or a calm, mist-filled morning journey, rowing on Ullswater delivers moments of genuine escape and memorable outdoor camaraderie.