Paddle the Lake District

Dip your paddle into the waters of the Lake District. Whether you are a canoeist, kayaker or paddleboarder, paddling on any of the 'English Lakes' rewards you with discovering unique, beautiful landscapes backdropped by iconic mountains.

In the Lake District, paddling a lake is never just paddling a lake! Explore secluded beaches and shores, picnic on uninhabited islands, and access England's highest summits. Each lake will reveal its unique character, influenced by geology, flora and fauna, and human history. Immerse yourself in the worlds of 'Lake Poets' Wordsworth and Coleridge, Beatrix Potter, Swallows and Amazons, and Donald Campbell's speed record attempts.

This is the first guidebook to thoroughly describe all of the lakes, for all paddlers. Engaging descriptions and stunning photography will help you to launch into and enjoy fabulous Lakeland. 

Mark Rainsley has spent four decades using paddlesport as a means of avoiding adulthood and responsibility. He has descended white-water rivers on six continents, kayaked solo around the UK and is dedicated to exploring every nook and cranny of the UK's lakes and rivers by paddlecraft.

The author lives and works in the Lake District. As well as exploring the lakes, he has canoed and kayaked the white-water rivers, summitted all 214 Wainwright fells, completed the gruelling Lakeland 200 mountain bike circuit, and, most importantly, critically assessed the scone and cake quality in countless tea rooms.

Mark is a prolific contributor to paddlesport magazines and other media. He has authored numerous Pesda Press guidebooks including Paddle the Severn, Paddle Shakespeare's Avon, Paddle the Thames, Paddle the Wye and South West Sea Kayaking.