Get in the water this summer and enjoy guided wild swimming, paddle sport sessions and sunset sailing with the National Trust. The charity will be setting up opportunities for everyone to try something new and get moving in the water while taking in the scenery. 

Right in the heart of the Lake District, Crow Park will be the starting point for paddle sport taster sessions brought to you in partnership Mobile Adventure. Participants will be able to join a qualified instructor who will teach them the skills required to head out and explore the serene beauty of Derwent Water. 

Starting on Thursday 21 July visitors can take part in a two-hour kayak, canoe or paddleboarding session, with the water sport changing each week. These will run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at either 9am, 11.30am or 2pm until Saturday 3 September except for 4, 5 and 6 August. The price is £25 per session and includes wetsuit rental. 

John, owner and instructor at Mobile Adventure says: ‘I’ve been working in the outdoor pursuits industry since 1997 and been based in the amazing Lake District since 2000. With our common aims of enjoying the landscape whilst preserving it for the future, this should be a great partnership with the National Trust. On our taster sessions you will learn the basics required to safety get out in, and control the boats or boards, and hopefully start you out enjoying a whole new sport. Being out on the water is a uniquely relaxing form of exercise, and most people are hooked from the start!’ 

For those who prefer to dive right in, guided lake swimming sessions will be held every Tuesday from 19 July to 9 August and will take place at Derwent Water and Crummock Water. Suzanna from Suzanna Swims will teach you everything you need to know about staying safe while enjoying a relaxing swim in the tranquil surroundings. These beginner sessions will be available from 10am to 1pm. Price is £75. 

Suzanna, Owner and Instructor at Suzanna Swims says: ‘It’s a pleasure to be working with the National Trust offering guided wild swimming sessions this summer. The National Trust do a fantastic job of looking after landscapes in the Lake District. Swimming in our beautiful lakes offers another perspective on the landscape. I’ll not only be guiding swims but also educating participants on safe swimming and respecting our environment.’ 

If you prefer a relaxing evening enjoying the lake while on a dry solid deck, sunset sailing boat trips around Derwent Water are on offer every Tuesday evening in the school summer holidays through a partnership with Derwent Water Marina. The boat sets off at 5.30pm for a two-hour tour and the cost is £30 per person. 

Lisa, Marina Manager at Derwent Water Marina says: ‘A two hours evening cruise will allow you to enjoy the peacefulness and tranquillity of the lake and see some stunning mountain views as you glide over the water. Come and join one of our RYA qualified instructors on a pleasant evening sail. Perfect for the whole family.’