Water Sports
Sailing and windsurfing
Take to the waters at one of the Peak District's reservoirs and you'll find a great way to escape the hubbub of daily life. Sailing clubs operate on many of the reservoirs in and around the Peak District in stunning surroundings including Carsington, Rudyard, Combs, Errwood, Dovestone and Torside.
There are many sailing clubs who offer a safe introduction to a sport that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike, with facilities for both members and visitors to use.
Find a course or a facility convenient for your visit:
- Royal Yachting Association
- Severn Trent reservoirs with watersports activities
- Leisure activities at Yorkshire Water reservoirs
- United Utilities recreation sites
Canoeing
It is relaxing, tranquil and idyllic. It can be wet but it’s a fun day out!
There are opportunities for paddling in some of the beautiful reservoirs, rivers and canals around the Peak District including: Carsington Water, Tittesworth Reservoir, the River Derwent at Matlock and the Peak Forest canal.
Training is vital for anyone wanting to try canoeing or kayaking. You can learn basic skills by attending a centre where qualified instructors are based. One of the best places to give canoeing and kayaking a go is at Carsington Water sports Centre who provide British Canoe Union (B.C.U.) Kayaking courses. Canoe hire is also available at Tittesworth Reservoir.
The Peak District enjoys an extensive public transport network, enabling you to have a full day out exploring the area without using the car.
Also, check out these ambassador centres who offer canoeing opportunities.
Canal Boating
The Caldon Canal takes you from Stoke-on-Trent to picturesque Staffordshire and the Churnet Valley. A journey along the peaceful Bridge over Caldon Canal offers a lovely way to experience the beautiful Peak District in the heart of England, and an easy introduction to canal boating for beginners. Starting at the National Garden Festival site, home of the industrial potteries, it’s a gentle 12-hour cruise along the Caldon Canal to Froghall Basin and back, perfect for a short break.
The Peak Forest Canal is one of Britain’s most scenic waterways, running through magnificent landscape to the edge of the Peak District. For much of its length, the canal runs alongside the pretty River Goyt. Both the canal and the river are havens for plants and wildlife. The nature reserve of Goytside Meadows is home to a stunning variety of wild flowers.
The Peak Forest Canal boasts two Scheduled Ancient Monuments in its 15-mile length – the grand, three-arch Marple Aqueduct and the historic Bugsworth Basin.
Swimming
There is an open air pool at Hathersage in the Hope Valley. During the summer months, it offers the opportunity to swim amidst the glorious Peak District scenery, in water which is heated to 28°C.