Paddle boards

Why stand up paddleboarding in the Lake District is perfect for you!

Stand up paddleboarding is one of the coolest ways to explore Coniston Water. Originally an offshoot of surfing, it’s the closest we’re going to get to that Hawaiian vibe here in the Lake District.

Avoid the waves of Windermere and join us for the perfect paddleboarding hire session, whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned pro, the Old Man of Coniston is the perfect backdrop for your memorable day on the water.

Book paddleboard hire now!

NEW Double Paddleboard (Coming June 2025)

Double the Paddle. Double the Fun.

New! Tandem Paddleboards Now Available at Coniston Boating Centre

Ready to share the adventure? Our brand-new double paddleboards are perfect for couples, friends, and families who want to explore Coniston Water together. Whether you're first-timers or paddle pros, these stable, spacious boards offer a fun, balanced, and unforgettable experience on the water.

Built for Two

Paddle side-by-side with ease — our double paddleboards are wider, sturdier, and designed for comfort and performance.

From parent-and-child duos to adventurous mates, tandem boards make stand-up paddleboarding more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Breathtaking Views, Shared Moments

Cruise past wild shoreline, glide beneath the fells, and soak in the Lake District’s beauty together.

Price - £35

Duration - 2 hours

(age 16+ only)

Book now

NEW Group Paddleboard

What you'll need for paddleboarding

• Board and paddle*
• Buoyancy aid*
• A brief instruction before hire*
• Clothing and footwear you don't mind getting wet, we advise not to wear denim as we don’t want you getting cold!
• Hot weather - suncream and a bottle of water (occasionally it does visit us in Coniston!)
• Cold weather - warm clothing and a change of clothes (the wind can be quite blowy on the lake so even if the sun is shining its best to be prepared!)
• We suggest bringing a mobile phone in case of emergencies, dry bags can be purchased from our shop
• A waterproof jacket and trousers would also be recommended

*We provide these within the hire price.

Stand up paddleboarding is a great way to get active on Coniston Water. Our team will be happy to answer any questions you have, as well as give you a few tips if you’re new to the sport. We want you to make the most of your paddleboard hire. Once you’ve mastered it remember to bring your friends and family down to show them how much of a pro you are!

Paddleboard hire charges

Paddleboard hires are available for 2 hours maximum, you must be minimum 16 years old to hire a paddle board. Online bookings only.

1 person: £30 (age 16+ only)

1 person and dog (if well behaved): £30 (age 16+ only)

During busy times the site gets very busy, please arrive with plenty of time before your booking to find a parking space, more parking is available in Coniston Village.

Book online

You can book paddle board hire online using our secure booking system.

Book now to avoid disappointment.

If you have any questions, please call us on 015394 41366 or email us at conistonbc@lakedistrict.gov.uk

Here are a few tips before your visit

How to stand up on your stand up paddleboard

• Stand alongside the board in our shallow water to the left of our jetty, this way you’re protected from the wind. Have a look at our webcam so you know what to expect.
• Hold the side edges of the board and get on your board in a kneeling position, just behind the centre point. The centre of the board is where your carry handle is. We’ll show you if you’re unsure.
• Balance your weight on the board to stabilise yourself, then move one foot at a time to replace where your knees were.
• Begin to stand up. Start by raising your chest up while keeping your knees bent. Once your chest is vertical, extend your legs to stand up. The trick is to look forward once standing, not down at your feet. Remember, you’re always more likely to spill a cup of tea if you’re staring at it.

Staying balanced on a stand up paddleboard and how to hold your paddle

Once you’re standing, here are a few tips to maintain your balance:

• Place your feet so they are parallel, about shoulder width apart, and a similar distance from the edge of your board.
• Keep your toes pointing forward, knees slightly bent and your back straight.
• Keep your head and shoulders steady and upright.
• Look forward into the distance. Avoid staring at your feet. Not only will this make you better at paddleboarding, you’ll also get to see how beautiful the Coniston valley is!
• Make sure the tear-drop-shaped blade of the paddle angles away from you and toward the front of the board. Imagine the paddle clawing at the water.
• When you’re paddling on the right side of your board, your left hand will be on the T-grip and your right hand a few feet down on the shaft. When you switch sides, reverse your hand positions.

Falling and getting back on

Despite your best efforts to stay balanced on your board, you may end up falling in. We take a plunge from time to time, preferably in the summer to cool off, but it happens! If you’re feeling a little unbalanced, don’t worry about it, remember that paddleboarding is a watersport, so getting wet is part of the fun.

For when you fancy a swim in Coniston:

• It’s important to fall to the side, so that you fall into the water and not onto the board. Falling onto the board is more likely to cause an injury, whereas the water is normally a much softer landing.
• Don’t worry about your paddle when falling, it floats and you can go and pick it up later.

To get back on your paddleboard after falling off:

• Swim to the side of your board (remember you’ll have a buoyancy aid on) make sure you’re near the centre.
• Grab the handle at the centre of the board with one hand.
• Kick your legs while pulling on the handle to slide yourself onto the board. You may not look the coolest right now, but soon you’ll be paddling again and waving at the passers by.

Weather Limitations

With the Lake District National Park being our home we have our fair share of bad weather. Throughout the year the wind picks up to an unpleasant level and we have to cancel hire for the day. Please check the weather forecast or ring us before setting off to Coniston Boating Centre to avoid disappointment.