Paddleboarding (SUP)
Paddleboarding (SUP)
on Coniston Water
on Coniston Water
(it's worth waiting for ... )
SUP Watersports Lake District
Hello, my name is Calum and me and my Partner Beth run SUP Watersports. I’ve been playing on the water for as long as I can remember. This has lead me to spend much of my time surfing, kitesurfing and paddleboarding. Sharing my passion for these sports has allowed me to teach and instruct around the UK and in France for many years.
Beth has the same passion for watersports as me and she too worked in Spain and America as a sailing and windsurf instructor. Sharing a love for the same sports and having competitive attitudes often leads to us pushing each other quite hard! We’ve decided that running a mobile paddleboard school will allow us to not only share our favourite sport with many people, but also spend as much time as possible paddleboarding. If you would like to come and enjoy some time on the water, check out our options and give us a ring to start your adventure!
This was our day out with SUP
Considered one of the most beautiful places in the country, with views offered in every direction, it is no secret that the Lake District is a magical place, a place that I am lucky enough to call my home.
Hinted by its renowned name, the Lake District has an abundance of lakes, waters, meres and tarns to explore and enjoy when spending time in the National Park. Many locals and tourists alike take to the water every day, whether that be by boat, kayak or simply plunging in for a wild swim. Nevertheless, one of the most popular activities to take centre stage in the Lakes recently is paddleboarding.
The best way to describe it is that it is a combination of surfing and kayaking, and it has become increasingly popular over the past decade, so of course, we jumped on the band wagon and gave it a go.
We got in touch with SUP Watersports who provide a range of paddleboarding experiences around the Lake District, including offering guests of the Langdale Estate the opportunity to paddleboard off our private beach at Coniston Water. Founded and run by Callum and Beth, the two work together to provide a fun and ‘surfing school’ like approach to paddle boarding.
Having paddleboarded twice before, I had an idea of what to expect from the activity. With that being said, both times I had previously been on a paddleboard, I was defeated by the aspect of standing up, with each attempt mirroring a newly born calf trying to find their balance, unsuccessful nor graceful. So, taking from my past experience, I did not have high hopes that this time would be much different.
As we drove down to the private shore, Beth was awaiting our arrival with a welcoming smile, whilst Callum was arriving back with a couple who were finishing their paddleboard experience. The couple were suspiciously dry considering I personally had never come off a paddleboard even remotely dry, but I simply assumed that they must have been naturals at it.
We were offered the choice of a wetsuit (as it does get a little chilly, especially if you intend on getting wet), and on this occasion the weather was moody and slightly miserable, so in the end we opted for one. They had a pop-up changing facility on site which was very helpful. Wetsuit on, Callum gave us a small brief about the boards, paddles and the best way to get out onto the water.
At first, I started on my knees (apprehensive due to my previous experiences of standing up) as we started paddling out further into the water. We headed to Peel Island, a small island in the middle of the water and a great pitstop. As we were paddling across, it took no time to notice how calm the water was, and it was enjoyable to simply take the time to appreciate the surrounding views.
Once we arrived, we dismounted, and Callum explained that we could climb to the top of the small rocky headland. Around 10 feet tall, he proceeded to dive off into the water. Following his confident plunge into the dark and mysterious looking water, myself and Ruby looked at each other with a look of ‘I’ll do it if you do it’. Nods were given and our feet left the rockface. We ended up launching ourselves off the rock time and time again, trying new jumps each time.
Once we had our adrenaline fix, we climbed back down to the boards which were stowed away in between the rocks to prevent them from floating away. Making it look easy, Callum jumped back onto his board, piece of cake. My attempt on the other hand was a little more strenuous, with limbs flying in every direction as I pulled myself onto the board. Back on, I plucked up the courage to attempt the standing position. Callum did a fabulous job of coaching me through the process and how best to balance myself. Taking the paddle and placing it on the board in front of myself, I began to stand. And just like that, I was up! Besides being a bit wobbly and still unstable, I was personally chuffed. If it wasn’t for Callum’s constant reassurance and tips, I think it would’ve ended exactly like it had previously, but I felt much more confident with him coaching me along the way.
We gently paddled back towards the shore, and whilst I was primarily focusing on keeping my balance stood up, Callum and Ruby decided to take on something a bit more advanced. From flipping the board from the back, to headstands and yoga, nothing was impossible to these two. After many jumps, unplanned falls into the water, endless laughter, and a little bit of skill, we arrived back at the shore when the heavens decided to open. But that didn’t stop us from cracking open a beer, having a good ol’ chat and taking in the natural beauty of our stunning location.
As someone who has very little, to non-existent balance or skill when it comes to paddleboarding, I can honestly say I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the water and with SUP Watersports. The reassurance and expertise of Callum along the way, but still with free range to have a play around, was the perfect combination to make our experience so enjoyable. It is a truly wonderful way to explore the Lakes first-hand and have fun whilst doing so.
Contact SUP Watersports - 07555 139 459 - supwatersportslakedistrict.co.uk/
What's available
Working with Langdale we are excited to offer a bespoke package for you to combine with your stay. This is based from Langdale’s very own private secluded beach on the shores of Coniston water. Ideal for those wanting to escape the busy areas of the Lake District to embark on an unforgettable experience. Why not also enjoy a lakeside picnic whilst you take in the stunning scenery?
Our tour and picnic work perfectly here, combining a scenic view of both the river mouth and famous Thompson Holme island with the luxury of having your own space to dry off and enjoy some food with a view.
Guided Tours
The best way to explore the lakes! This session involves half an hour of basic tuition and then a two hour tour of the lake. Your tour guide will also show you interesting key points and talk you through the lake you are on, they are filled with local area knowledge. This session will benefit anyone who has some experience or those who are new to the sport and just want to get on the water.
This can be finished with a picnic
Duration: 2 hours
£50 per person for 1-3 people
£45 per person for 4-6 people
(Wetsuit hire and buoyancy aid included in the price)
Lesson & Tuition
This is an introduction to paddleboarding. This session will start with kit familiarisation, learning about the board and paddle, plus personal protection and other accessories. We will then take to the water to guide you from beginner level through to competent paddler. From this session you will gain the skills and confidence to take to the water on your own. Perfect for people who want to get into the sport and for those who have just purchased their own paddleboard.
This can be finished with a picnic
Duration: 2 hours
£55 per person for 1-3 people
£50 per person for 4-6 people
(Wetsuit hire and buoyancy aid included in the price)
Half & Half
For the adventurous among you! This session involves 45 minutes of tuition with one of our expert instructors. This is then followed by the opportunity to go off on your own for an hour and a quarter and explore as you want, or take the guidance on where to go from your instructor, who is a local expert. Your instructor will be on hand if you need any help and will greet you back when you finish your epic adventure.
This can be finished with a picnic
Duration: 2 hours
£50 per person for 1-3 people
£45 per person for 4-6 people
(Wetsuit hire and buoyancy aid included in the price)
The Summer Fling
The perfect introduction to paddleboarding for couples. This magical session starts off with tuition from one of our expert instructors. Once you have gained the skills you need, your instructor will then send you on you way and give you all the local knowledge needed to find the ideal paddling route for the day, taking in as many of the amazing views as possible. There are plenty of islands, inlets and rivers to explore that may get missed without our instructors guidance! Once you have returned you will be treated to a refreshments box on a picnic blanket to relax and reminisce about the amazing couple of hours you have just spent!
This can be finished with a picnic
Duration: 2 hours
£130 per couple
(Wetsuit hire and buoyancy aid included in the price)
The MEGA Adventure
The best things in life are shared, and our MEGA adventure is no exception! A giant paddleboard takes up to four people, as you work to paddle in unison and operate as a team. families, stag and hen do’s will love the team aspect and shared board. Games galore and plenty of laughs are guaranteed with this session! with a short land based briefing followed by some on water tuition you will be ready to take on the lake, attracting jealous gazes from all who see you!
Duration: 1.5 hours
£150 for 2-5 people
(Wetsuit hire and buoyancy aid included in the price)
Book Direct with SUP Watersports - 07555 139 459 / [email protected] / supwatersportslakedistrict.co.uk