Best boating lakes in the UK

20.2.25

Sail away sail away sail away. Who knows if Enya was one of them, but boating activities wetted the feet of 13.2 million UK adults in 2022. Perhaps it’s only natural that we’re drawn to water as an island nation. In your second January 2025 blog from The Aqua Contractor, we consider some of the best boating lakes in the UK. We’ve also found a sprinkling spring events you might like.

Norfolk Broads

If you’re old enough to remember TV show Sale of The Century and its intro: ‘and now from Norwich, it’s the quiz of the week', you might like taking a tranquil boating holiday to its homeland and former Anglia ITV region, The Broads, Norfolk and Suffolk. They were formed by flooding ancient peat excavations to form a network of lakes and rivers covering 300 square kilometres and are really quite fascinating.
A whopping 125 miles of lock-free waterways is like honey to a bee for all you boaters, and you’ll clock lovely little villages, windmills and lots of wildlife along the way. Peaceful, yes. Boring, no.

Spring 2025 Event: While specific events for spring 2025 tba, the 'Broads Outdoor Festival' is usually a May staple, with its guided boat tours, wildlife excursions, and loads of water-based activities.

Loch Leven, Scotland

Loch Leven is a freshwater loch in Perth and Kinross steeped in history and natural beauty that spans about 14 square kilometres. Ample room for boating activities, kayaking, sailing, and fishing.
Castle Island is home to the historic Loch Leven Castle where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567. There are a few dotted-about islands to explore actually, or you might plump for the scenic Loch Leven Heritage Trail that hugs the shoreline.

Spring 2025 Event: Again, it’s TBA, but Loch Leven traditionally hosts the 'Loch Leven National Nature Reserve Open Day' in May, featuring guided boat tours and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Ladybower Reservoir, Peak District

It’s a yes from us for Ladybower Reservoir – a Y-shaped reservoir that ticks both the picturesque and boating boxes. It’s 500 hectares of joy for all you kayakers, boaters and paddleboarders. Yes, it’s tranquil now, but it was the practice run for the Dambusters in WW2.

Spring 2025 Event: The 'Ladybower Spring Regatta' is scheduled for April 2025, featuring sailing races, boating workshops, and family-friendly activities.

Lough Erne, Northern Ireland

Upper and Lower Lough Erne are connected, so this waterway in County Fermanagh is kind of like a labyrinth. Sailing, boating, kayaking, cruising- all boating life is here. Several marinas boast boat-hire options so that you can sail away on this lough that captures stunning beauty wildlife and historical sites.

Spring 2025 Event: The 'Lough Erne Canoe Rally' is expected in May 2025. It invites all you paddlers of all abilities to explore the waterways and participate in guided tours.

Loch Affric, Scottish Highlands

Loch Affric in the Scottish Highlands is a gem. Ancient Caledonian pine forests and mountains are its neighbours from heaven, and if you’re a boater who enjoys unspoiled and tucked-away settings, this one’s for you. Canoeing and kayaking work well on this body of water, and while its tranquil, there's the odd heart-racing moment when should red deer or golden eagles appear.

Spring 2025 Event: While specific events are not common due to their remote nature, guided canoe trips are often organized in the spring to experience the loch's beauty during this vibrant season.

Loch Morlich, Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorm Mountains is not too shabby a backdrop, Loch Morlich’s clear waters and sandy beach make you think you’re at the seaside, with the added atmosphere of mountainous terrain.
It’s a freshwater loch that’s full on for boating activities, windsurfing and all the rest of it. Loch Morlich Watersports Centre is where you will find equipment rentals and lessons for all skill levels. The combination of clear waters, forested surroundings, and mountain views creates a stunning backdrop for any boating excursion.

Spring 2025 Event: The 'Loch Morlich Watersports Festival' is planned for May 2025, where you might see demonstrations, taster sessions, and competitions.

Coniston Water, Lake District

A blog on the best UK boating lakes must include The Lake District and after a wee bit of agonising, in the end we went with Coniston Water. Here is five miles of water for boating activities, including canoeing and rowing and visitor facilities. History was made on Coniston Water when Donald Campbell in the mid-20th century attempted to break the world water speed record. The Old Man of Coniston and other fells which wrap around this lake, provide a picturesque backdrop, for boating and other water-based activities.

Spring 2025 Event: The 'Coniston Water Festival' is all set for April 2025. You can expect boating events, workshops, and family-friendly activities.

Sources:

nature.scot
broads-authority.gov.uk
statista.com
visitscotland.com
lougherne.com
windermere-lakecruises.co.uk
lochmorlich.com
conistonboatingcentre.co.uk

It's advisable to check these websites closer to your planned visit for the most up-to-date information.