HOWTOWN CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Open Canadian Canoes from Howtown: Ullswater by Paddle
Waterside Canoe Hire from Ullswater Wake and Surf outfits Canadian-style open canoes for 1–8 hour sessions; this guide explains what to expect, who it suits and what to bring.
Open Canadian Canoes from Howtown: Ullswater by Paddle.
Adventure brief
Open Canadian Canoes from Howtown: Ullswater by Paddle
Waterside Canoe Hire in Howtown outfits spacious Canadian-style open canoes for exploring Ullswater, offering a flexible hire from one to eight hours and all essential kit supplied so groups and families can get straight onto the water.
Ullswater, nestled in the Lake District of England, is renowned for its striking glacially carved landscape, crystal-clear waters, and scenic shoreline. Waterside Canoe Hire offers a prime way to experience this iconic spot through open canoeing adventures that suit all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re paddling with family, friends, or solo, their flexible rentals make it easy to enjoy the lake’s gentle waves and stunning vistas.
What sets Waterside Canoe Hire apart is their commitment to safety and accessibility. Their fleet features spacious Canadian-style canoes that comfortably seat up to three adults or a family of four, making group trips both easy and enjoyable. The operation provides all necessary gear, including paddles and life jackets, so you can just focus on drifting over the calm waters, taking in the surrounding fells, and possibly spotting local wildlife like ospreys or herons. Spotting just how clear and pristine Ullswater’s waters are elevates the experience—imagine gliding past the ancient stone piers and lush shoreline, with the gentle hum of water and distant mountain peaks creating an immersive outdoor moment.
One of the true advantages of their location is the variety of routes available, from short, leisurely paddles to more extended trips that explore the lake’s hidden coves. Paired with the beautiful backdrop of the Lake District National Park, this activity offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. The area is perfect for a family day out or a solo retreat, with plenty of spots to stop and picnic along the shoreline.
Waterside Canoe Hire has become a staple for visitors seeking a relaxed yet active way to connect with Ullswater’s natural beauty. Their friendly service, convenient setup, and the chance to paddle across one of the UK’s most scenic lakes make them a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Route Schematic
Typical route schematic
A hire session typically follows a simple flow: launch from shore after briefing, paddle on Ullswater, then return to the launch point.
Howtown shore (launch & briefing)
Brief instruction and kit issue take place at the launch so you’re fitted with buoyancy aids and shown basic paddling before heading out.
Ullswater open water
Paddle across open water in a stable Canadian canoe to explore nearby stretches of Ullswater within your booked hire period.
Return to Howtown (pack and disembark)
End the session back at the launch, return equipment and address any post-hire needs such as drying out kit or purchasing a dry bag.
All participants must be able to swim; buoyancy aids must be worn at all times and the operator requires at least one adult aboard each canoe and recommends a minimum of two people able to use a paddle per canoe.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Spacious Canadian-style open canoes
These are open, Canadian-style canoes with a front seat, rear seat and a central bench that can take two children; each craft holds up to three adults or two adults and two small children and has a 280kg maximum capacity.
Everything supplied and ready to go
Paddles, buoyancy aids and a brief instruction are included in the hire price so you receive basic coaching and safety kit before you leave shore; buoyancy aids must be worn throughout the session.
Flexible hire from short taster to full day
Hire options range from a one-hour taster to an eight-hour outing, allowing you to tailor a half-day or full-day paddle on Ullswater with rates set per canoe.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You’ll launch from Howtown into open water in a stable, roomy canoe that seats people and even a small dog; with two paddlers you can cover quiet stretches of Ullswater at a relaxed pace, returning to shore within the timeframe you’ve booked.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hire suits — and who should take care
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Hire is charged per canoe: 1 hour £30, 2 hours £45, 4 hours £55, 8 hours £75. Sessions are sold by duration per canoe.
The operator supplies the canoe, paddles, buoyancy aids and a brief instruction before launch; buoyancy aids must be worn at all times.
Bring clothing and footwear you don’t mind getting wet, sun protection and water in warm weather, layers and a change of clothes in cold weather; a mobile phone for emergencies and waterproofs are recommended; dry bags are available to buy.
The hire operates from Howtown on Ullswater; briefing and kit issue occur at the launch prior to departure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people can ride in one canoe?
Each canoe holds up to three adults, or two adults and two small children, with a maximum craft capacity of 280kg.
What are the hire durations and prices?
Open canoe hire is priced per canoe: 1 hour £30, 2 hours £45, 4 hours £55 and 8 hours £75.
Is any equipment provided?
Yes: the canoe, paddles and buoyancy aids are included, and staff provide a brief instruction before hire.
Do children need to meet an age requirement?
Minimum age is 4 years; there must always be at least one adult on board.
Do I have to be able to swim?
Yes. For all water activities you must be able to swim.
Can I bring a dog?
Open canoes have room for people and possibly a small dog, but space and the craft’s capacity limits should be respected.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-28T00:47:11.895Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.