The Lake District has more than 16 lakes, numerous tarns plus a 26 mile stretch of coastline. There are plenty of opportunities to go rowing, sailing and boating - here you'll find information about boat hire, boat cruises, lake byelaws and safety on boats. On this section you can also access information via our pages, from Lake Byelaw enforcement, to Windermere boat registration,and Bassenthwaite permits. On this page:
The following four lakes all have watersport centres, and places where you can hire boats, including rowing boats and electric boats:
Have a great family day out on Coniston Water. Enjoy motor boats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards at Coniston, book online today. Steamers and boat cruises Taking a cruise is a great way to experience our beautiful Lake District views. Combining a one-way cruise with a bus, walk or cycle can be a great way to travel around a lake in one day. The following four lakes have passenger boats with multiple stops:
Our National Park includes 26 miles of coastline and estuaries. The coast, from Seascale to Millom, is quite different to the rest of the National Park. Here you can enjoy dramatic views across open sea and into the high fells. Where the rivers of the western Lake District meet the sea there are dunes and estuaries rich with sea life and the birds which feed on it. There are lots of places where you can launch anything from a windsurfer to a small boat. Find out more in Coast of the Lake District National Park (PDF).
Read on to discover safety tips for all boat users in the Lake District so you can enjoy your boating experience safely. Our Lake Rangers are here to keep everyone safe and happy on the water and the advice videos below will help you make the most of your adventure.
See our Swimming page for details which lakes are best to swim in, our Swimming safety page for how to stay safe in cold water and around other lake users and our Lakes Activities Guide on where people can swim in our main lakes.
Our Lake Rangers are here to keep everyone safe and happy on the water. Their advice videos will help you make the most of your experience.
If you have your own boat please make sure that you have installed a carbon monoxide detector. These can be bought from Ferry Nab or any hardware store.
If you are driving a boat that is fitted with a motor please make sure you are wearing a kill cord at all times. Our Lake Ranger explains how to wear one appropriately.
Life jackets should be worn during any water sport activity. Make sure you know how to care for yours. Life jackets should be worn during any water sport activity. Make sure you know how to care for yours.
During the warmer weather, blue green algae may occur on some waters. While this occurs naturally, it can be toxic and lethal to animals. Our guide to blue green algae explains what to look out for and how to report a sighting.
Invasive non-native species of wildlife can hitchhike on equipment, footwear, clothing and boats. You may inadvertently spread the aliens even if you just go for a paddle! Every time you leave any water such as a river, tarn or lake: