Keswick Launch on Derwentwater copyright Lorna Egan

On the water around Derwentwater

Take a cruise

You can take a 50 minute cruise around Derwentwater on Keswick Launch. You can buy discounted tickets from Keswick Information Centre when you're here.

Captain your own boat

Boats can be hired directly from Keswick Launch at the lakeside. These vary from rowing boats to self-drive motor boats.

Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and sailing

The following places offer ranges of craft for hire;

  • Derwent Water Marina Portinscale on the west side of Derwentwater - kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, rowing boats.
  • Nichol End Marine near Portinscale on the west side of Derwentwater - kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, rowing boats, sailing boats.
  • Platty+ Water Sports at the southern end of Derwentwater - kayak, paddleboard, canoe, sailing boats and a Dragon Boat and Viking longship!

To see where you can launch your boat, and other great tips, take a look at Derwentwater map (PDF).

Fishing on Derwentwater

To fish on Derwentwater you will need a permit from Keswick Angling Association as well as a rod licence from the Environment Agency before you can start fishing.

Keswick Information Centre can issue you with both.

Swimming in Derwentwater

Derwent is a great lake for swimming and has many areas of publically accessible shoreline - see the Derwent lake guide map. Because Derwent is busy with boats, please keep close to the shore and make sure you're visible with a tow float and ideally someone with you on a boat, kayak or paddleboard. Whilst there are some areas of shallow water that may be warm, the deeper water can be cold, so always wade in slowly. You can go back and jump off the jetty afterwards!

Visit Derwent Isle on Derwentwater

Five times a year, Derwent Island House on Derwent Isle is open to the public. Enjoy a boat trip or even canoe to the island. More details at National Trust - Derwent Isle.

Top tips on where to swim in the Lake District, how to keep safe and how to deal with cold water when wild swimming

BoatSafe code

How to keep you and other lake users safe when boating

Pop in to Keswick Information Centre for help and advice

Moot Hall in Keswick, home to Keswick Information Centre - copyright Keswick Tourism Association

We can help you with booking tickets and attractions, finding walking routes and places to visit, and we have a great range of maps and guidebooks. See us in Moot Hall in the Market Place, home to Keswick Information Centre.