Paddle the Lake District

Discover the Lake District from the water — England's most inspiring national park for paddling. Whether you love canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, this guidebook unlocks every major lake, with expert tips on routes, launch points, parking, safety, access, and hidden places only paddlers can reach.

Explore secluded beaches, paddle to wild islands, and enjoy stunning views of the iconic Lakeland peaks. From Windermere to Wastwater, Derwentwater to Ullswater, each lake has its own personality — shaped by dramatic geology, wildlife, and centuries of human history.

Follow in the footsteps (and wake!) of the Lake Poets, Beatrix Potter, and the Swallows and Amazons adventures while discovering stories of exploration and speed-record legends like Donald Campbell. This book blends practical paddling guidance with rich local heritage to deepen your Lake District experience.

Written by renowned paddlesport author and Lake District local Mark Rainsley, who has kayaked around the UK and explored white-water rivers on six continents, this guide is packed with first-hand knowledge, stunning photography, and insider recommendations.

Key Features

• Complete coverage of all major Lake District lakes — ideal for canoe, kayak & SUP
• Detailed routes, access points, parking, safety notes & seasonal advice
• Local knowledge — written by an expert paddler who lives in the Lakes
• Inspirational stories, history & nature of the Lakeland waters
• Beautiful full-colour photography for trip planning and enjoyment
• Perfect for holiday adventures, weekend escapes & family paddling

About the Author

Mark Rainsley has spent four decades using paddlesport as a means of avoiding adulthood and responsibility. He has descended white-water rivers on six continents, kayaked solo around the UK and is dedicated to exploring every nook and cranny of the UK's lakes and rivers by paddlecraft. The author lives and works in the Lake District. As well as exploring the lakes, he has canoed and kayaked the white-water rivers, summitted all 214 Wainwright fells, completed the gruelling Lakeland 200 mountain bike circuit, and, most importantly, critically assessed the scone and cake quality in countless tea rooms. Mark is a prolific contributor to paddlesport magazines and other media. He has authored numerous Pesda Press guidebooks including Paddle the Severn, Paddle Shakespeare's Avon, Paddle the Thames, Paddle the Wye and South West Sea Kayaking.