The Middle Derwent offers rapids, stunning scenery and the opportunity to know how to control and manoeuvre your canoe on moving water.

This section of the River Derwent lies between Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake. It's approximately 5km long, and a very pleasant grade I/II with plenty of places to learn the necessary basic skills for river running.

This activity is ideal for families, couples and groups. Minimum age: 10 years old.

The river meanders its way through agricultural fields, with open views of the fells such as Causey Pike, and Grisedale Pike, interspersed with sheltered tree line bankings overlooked by the massive Skiddaw! The river is seldom paddled and home to a variety of wildlife. A bird reserve at the southern end of Bassenthwaite Lake is home to even more wildlife, and the forest overlooking the water is the nesting place for our famous osprey.

The top section of the river has some fast moving water to negotiate and if the water levels are right there is also a surfing wave to play on and practice your canoe handling.

Our open canoes are very stable, comfortable and versatile. We will supply you with your Canadian canoe and paddles, and fit you with your buoyancy aid, that must be worn at all times. After a land based safety briefing we will launch onto the water to learn basic canoeing skills. When you feel confident, and everyone is ready, we will set off on our river journey.

Our canoe instructors are all highly qualified, extremely professional and very friendly so rest assured you will be in very safe hands and will have a truly memorable time.

Cost - £40 per person