HOWTOWN FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Sit‑on‑Top Freedom on Ullswater: Kayak Hire from Howtown with Helvellyn as a Backdrop
Single and double sit‑on‑top kayaks are available for hires from 1–8 hours, a simple, safety‑focused way to explore Ullswater by water.
Sit‑on‑Top Freedom on Ullswater: Kayak Hire from Howtown with Helvellyn as a Backdrop.
Waterside Kayak Hire from Howtown puts you onto Ullswater in stable sit‑on‑top kayaks built for beginners, families and anglers. With all equipment supplied, basic instruction given, and buoyancy aids provided and required, the hire lets paddlers explore the lake—whether fishing, racing with friends or taking a gentle family outing—framed by Helvellyn, Hallin Fell and the surrounding fells.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sit‑on‑Top Stability
The hire uses sit‑on‑top kayaks—stable, easy to get on and off, and well suited to beginners and family use. Single and tandem options accommodate solo paddlers or pairs, and all hires come with paddles and buoyancy aids.
Ullswater Backdropped by Helvellyn and Hallin Fell
Paddling across Ullswater delivers constant views of Helvellyn, Hallin Fell and the surrounding ridges—making even short hires feel scenic and expansive.
From Fishing to Friendly Races
These little boats are equally at home under an angler with a rod, a pair racing friends across a bay, or a family taking a gentle paddle—practical, sturdy and designed for fun.
What the day feels like
What It Feels Like
A brief instruction precedes launch; then you push off into open water in a sit‑on‑top kayak that keeps you readily balanced and mobile. Hires range from short one‑hour circuits to full eight‑hour days, letting you pick a quick scenic run around shorelines or a longer exploration of Ullswater’s bays with the fells as a constant backdrop.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hire suits—and when it may not be ideal.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Hires are available from 1 to 8 hours—options commonly listed at 1, 2, 4 and 8 hours with tiered pricing per kayak.
The operator supplies the kayak, paddles and buoyancy aids; a brief instruction is given before launch and buoyancy aids must be worn at all times.
Bring clothes and footwear you don’t mind getting wet, sun protection and water in warm weather, layers and a change of clothes in cold weather, and a mobile phone for emergencies (dry bags available from the shop).
Single kayaks have a 145kg maximum capacity; double sit‑on kayaks are given with a 200kg maximum capacity. All participants must be able to swim.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long can I hire a kayak for?
Hire options range from 1 to 8 hours, with common durations of 1, 2, 4 and 8 hours.
Is kit provided?
Yes—the kayak, paddles and buoyancy aids are provided and buoyancy aids must be worn at all times.
Can children use the kayaks?
Children aged 12 and under must share a double kayak with an adult; children 13 and over may use a kayak on their own but must be supervised by someone aged 18 or over.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes—for all water activities you must be able to swim.
Can I bring my dog?
The operator recommends that dogs do not go on the kayaks because they are more liable to tip.
What are the kayak weight limits?
Single kayaks have a 145kg maximum capacity and double sit‑on kayaks are listed with a 200kg maximum capacity.
Are lifejackets included?
Yes—buoyancy aids are included in the price and must be worn at all times.