Canoeing and Kayaking

Enjoy canoeing and kayaking in the Lake District to experience our beautiful national park from a different view…

This activity consists of qualified instructor tuition on safety and how to paddle correctly. This will take place either on Bassenthwaite Lake on the Armathwaite Hall Estate or Derwent Water. Transport can be provided if required.

What’s the difference between a canoe and a kayak?

If you’re looking to canoe or kayak in the Lake District, it pays to understand the differences between each activity. Canoes are usually open-top boats that are often designed to fit two or more people. Kayaks are closed boats and sit lower in the water. In a canoe, you sit on a bench as though you’re sitting on a chair, whereas in a kayak you sit on the floor of the boat with your legs out in front of you – this changes the way the activity actually feels, as your rowing position is different. Canoes use a single-bladed paddle that must be alternated in the water, but kayaks use a double bladed one.

Essentially, this all translates to canoeing being a more relaxed activity compared to kayaking – but this is a generalisation. Both activities can be enjoyed at a calm, leisurely pace. Whichever form of transport you prefer, you can enjoy either right here in the Lake District.

Other Lake District Adventures

If you would like to enjoy other adventurous activities in the Lake District, why not try a relaxed guided walk, or a more challenging paddleboarding lesson on Lake Bassenthwaite.