Discover more at Fell Foot
Find out how to get to Fell Foot, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Watersports & boat hire at Fell Foot
Fancy a duck’s-eye view of the Lake District from Windermere? Fell Foot is perfect for paddling, canoeing, and boating. With modern changing rooms and stunning views of the Fairfield Horseshoe, it’s a great spot to try something new on England’s largest lake. To help you get started, here’s a list of all the water activities you can enjoy.
Water levels on the lake
Please be aware that during autumn and winter we often see higher water levels in the lake which can make for more challenging conditions when paddleboarding, canoeing or swimming. The water in the Lake District remains cold, even on a hot summer’s day and this can lead to cold water shock. Make sure you have the right skills and equipment to stay safe in the water. The lake is used by different users and watercraft. Please read water safety advice boards at Fell Foot when you visit.
Watersports at Fell Foot
Active Base
Active Base is a modern changing facility with showers, lockers and underfloor heating. Day passes are available from just £2 and can be bought from the café. Annual passes cost £83 email Active Base to arrange.
Stoked Watersports
Try paddle boarding, kayak canoeing or hire a row boat with our outdoor provider Stoked Watersports where there's something to suit all levels from beginner to seasoned pro.
The hourly hire sessions throughout the day are ideal for beginners and families. For more experienced paddlers the SUP 'pick up and go' service gives you the freedom to explore Lake Windermere at your own pace.
*Please note that hire is seasonal - April-October.*
Visit the Stoked Watersports website for more details and to book.
Adventure days at Fell Foot
Mere Mountains runs a range of outdoor learning and adventure programmes in and around the Lake District and holds an AALA Licence and LOtC badge. It has been providing canoeing on Lake Windermere for over 25 years and supports the National Trust by offering introductory canoeing sessions at Fell Foot.
To find out more visit Mere Mountains website.
White-water rafting at Fell Foot
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting at Fell Foot, with Lake District White Water Rafting. The trip starts with a gentle paddle on Lake Windermere, building up momentum until you reach the River Leven, where you get to ride the rapids. Not sure if white-water rafting is for you? You can try a taster session before you commit yourself to the full adventure.
To find out more visit Lake District White Water Rafting website.
If you have your own equipment
You can launch canoes, kayaks, inflatable dinghies, and paddleboards from the south end of the park - just make sure you can carry your gear from the car park to the water.
Before you head out, check out he Paddlers Code, a handy guide to staying safe and respecting others on the water
The lake is a busy place and with changing conditions, here are our top tips for water safety at Fell Foot.
Check, Clean, Dry: stop the spread of invasives
If you are going on the water on paddleboard, boat, other watercraft follow this advice to help prevent the spread of invasives in our waterways. Check your equipment, boat, and clothing after leaving the water for mud, aquatic animals or plant material. Remove anything you find and leave it at the site. Clean everything thoroughly as soon as you can, paying attention to areas that are damp or hard to access. Use hot water if possible. Dry everything for as long as you can before using elsewhere as some invasive plants and animals can survive for over two weeks in damp conditions.
Wild swimming at Fell Foot
People swim at Fell Foot. If you choose to get into the water please be sensible, follow safety advise and know your limits. It is important to be aware of the risks involved before entering the water. The water in the Lake District remains cold, even on a hot summer’s day and this can lead to cold water shock.
Please be aware that during autumn and winter we often see higher water levels in the lake which can make for more challenging conditions when swimming and paddleboarding. Before you set off, read the Lake District National Park's guide to swimming to make sure you have the right skills and equipment to stay safe in the water.
The RLNI has put together a top tips for open swimming guide to help people stay safe.
Fishing at Fell Foot
Fishing is not permitted from April – October. Outside of this period fishing is permitted if the person has all the relevant licenses. Care must be taken to avoid other lake users.
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Staying safe on the water
Fell Foot Park is a busy place attracting a wide range of water users including kayakers, paddleboarders, rowers and recreational boaters. This page has tips for how to prepare and stay safe on the water.
Things to see and do in the park at Fell Foot
Take a leisurely walk around the park and meadows and keep an eye out for wildlife including otters, warblers and geese. There's plenty of things to do at Fell Foot.
Eating at Fell Foot
Looking for some refreshment? The Boathouse café offers drinks, freshly prepared hot and cold meals, snacks, cakes and bakes.
Visiting Fell Foot with your dog
Fell Foot is a three pawprint rated place. Find out all you need to know about exercising your four-legged friends around the parkland, Windermere’s lakeshore and the south meadow.
The history of Fell Foot
Fell Foot was once the setting for a prestigious Lake District villa and has been a recreational estate for over two centuries. Discover more about the previous owners of this Lake Windermere estate.
Our work at Fell Foot
Discover how the support from Heritage Fund has helped us to restore Fell Foot to its original Victorian design and find out how we care for this beautiful part of the Lake District.
Family-friendly things to do at Fell Foot
From buggy-friendly lakeshore walks to Gothic boathouses, orienteering and nature trails to explore and England’s largest lake to splash in, there’s something for all ages at Fell Foot, Windermere.
