
Nichol End Marina Portinscale
Rent kayaks, SUPs, or rowing boats on Derwent Water. Enjoy delicious scones and coffee with stunning Lakeland views at the charming marina cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Calm waters, best light

Nichol End Marina Portinscale
Best Time
Calm waters, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rent kayaks, SUPs, or rowing boats on Derwent Water. Enjoy delicious scones and coffee with stunning Lakeland views at the charming marina cafe.
"Fantastic experience renting kayaks and a rowing boat, staff were welcoming and made the process easy!"

🛶 Book Water Sports Ahead
Consider booking kayaks or SUPs online, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
🍰 Don't Miss Cafe Scones
The cafe's homebake cakes and mega scones are a must-try! Perfect for a post-activity treat.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kayaking & Rowing Adventures
Derwent Water
Explore Derwent Water by renting kayaks or rowing boats. Staff provide safety info and tips for the best spots.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Derwent Water
Enjoy excellent value SUP hire, including wetsuit and dry bag. Explore the lake at your own pace.

Marina Cafe Delights
Nichol End Marina
Indulge in mega scones and homebake cakes with tea or coffee while soaking up lake views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Water Sports
Cafe Stop & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Recommendations for Tea and Activities
🛶 Book Water Sports Ahead
Consider booking kayaks or SUPs online, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
🍰 Don't Miss Cafe Scones
The cafe's homebake cakes and mega scones are a must-try! Perfect for a post-activity treat.
💰 Great Value SUP Hire
SUP hire includes wetsuit and dry bag, offering excellent value for exploring Derwent Water.
🚶♀️ Perfect Walk Stop
An ideal spot for a bathroom break, coffee, or snack during hikes around Derwent Water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Book Water Sports Ahead
Consider booking kayaks or SUPs online, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
🍰 Don't Miss Cafe Scones
The cafe's homebake cakes and mega scones are a must-try! Perfect for a post-activity treat.
💰 Great Value SUP Hire
SUP hire includes wetsuit and dry bag, offering excellent value for exploring Derwent Water.
🚶♀️ Perfect Walk Stop
An ideal spot for a bathroom break, coffee, or snack during hikes around Derwent Water.
🚿 Hot Showers Available
Hot outdoor showers and private changing rooms are available after your water sports adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nichol End Marina for its welcoming and knowledgeable staff, who make water sports rentals a breeze. The beautiful location on Derwent Water, combined with the excellent cafe serving delicious scones and cakes at great prices, makes it a highly recommended stop for both activities and refreshments. Some may find the water cold outside of summer, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Me and my family had a fantastic experience renting 2 kayaks and a rowing boat from Nichol End Marine today. All members of staff were very welcoming, kind, knowledgeable, and made the whole process really easy. We were given an explanation of equipment available to rent and what would be suitable for us. We were also given the option to book online or as a walk in and provided safety information before taking the equipment out on the water. I felt safe and well-prepared before heading out on the water. The location was beautiful, and the staff provided advice where to explore first. Everything was smooth and stress-free, which made the experience even more enjoyable. I’d definitely rent from them again in the future and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun day on the water!"
K.S
"Loved it. Great little café at the marina which offers watersports rentals. Lovely seating area to soak up the lake land views, and people watch of course! Café does mega scones and homebake cakes with tea, coffee and soft drinks. Prices are excellent. Service is delightful. A brilliant stop on a Newlands Valley walk."
Nick Allcock
"Staff very helpful and friendly. Excellent value for SUP hire at £20 an hour including wet suit and dry bag. Hot outdoor shower and private changing rooms. Explore Derwent Water to the full."
Phil G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nichol End Marina is located in Portinscale, near Keswick. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also a popular stop for those walking around Derwent Water.
While specific parking details aren't extensively mentioned, it's generally understood that parking is available in the vicinity of the marina, especially for those using its services.
Information on direct public transport links is limited, but it's a common stop for walkers around Derwent Water, suggesting it's accessible via walking routes from nearby towns like Keswick.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can book online or as a walk-in. However, booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to guarantee your rental.
While specific hours aren't detailed, reviews suggest rentals are available until close to closing time, with one family renting just an hour before closing. It's best to check their current operating hours.
Rental prices for kayaks and rowing boats are not explicitly stated, but reviews indicate excellent value for SUP hire. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly for current pricing.
There is no mention of an entry fee for the marina itself. Fees would typically apply to the rental of water sports equipment or purchases at the cafe.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can rent kayaks, rowing boats, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). The staff are knowledgeable and can help you choose the best option.
The location is described as beautiful, offering stunning Lakeland views of Derwent Water. It's a picturesque spot for both water activities and relaxation.
Yes, there are private changing rooms and hot outdoor showers available for use after your water sports activities.
Families have had fantastic experiences renting boats and kayaks. The staff are welcoming and ensure everyone feels safe and prepared.
There is no specific information regarding dogs. It's generally a good idea to check with the marina directly if you plan to bring a pet.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
The marina has a great little cafe that serves 'mega' scones, homebake cakes, tea, coffee, and soft drinks. It's a brilliant stop for refreshments.
Reviews indicate that the prices at the cafe are excellent, offering great value for the quality of food and drinks.
Yes, the cafe has lovely seating areas where you can soak up the lake views and enjoy people-watching.
📸 📸 Photography
The marina offers beautiful views of Derwent Water and the surrounding fells, especially during sunrise and sunset. Capturing people enjoying water sports adds dynamic shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with calmer waters and picturesque golden hour hues.
Yes, taking photos from kayaks, rowing boats, or SUPs offers unique perspectives of the lake and landscape. Ensure your device is protected from water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The cafe is also a hit with families, offering treats like scones and cakes that kids will love. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery together after an active session on the lake. The availability of changing rooms and showers is also a practical bonus for families.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Walkers
It offers a chance to break up a long walk, enjoy stunning lake views from the cafe, and even rent a boat for a different perspective of the landscape if time and inclination allow. The friendly staff and clean facilities make it a welcoming pit stop on any hiking itinerary.
💰 Budget Travelers
The cafe also provides great prices on food and drinks, making it a budget-friendly option for refreshments compared to potentially more tourist-centric establishments. It's a place where you can enjoy the scenery and activities without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Derwent Water by Boat
Many visitors highlight the excellent value of the rentals, particularly for SUPs, which often include wetsuits and dry bags. This makes it an accessible and enjoyable activity for a wide range of visitors. The experience is described as smooth, stress-free, and incredibly enjoyable, making it a highly recommended activity for anyone looking for a fun day out on the water.
Pro-tip: Consider booking your preferred watercraft in advance, especially during peak season or on weekends, to avoid disappointment. Arriving earlier in the day can also increase your chances of securing your desired rental.
The Charm of the Marina Cafe
The cafe is celebrated not only for its delicious treats but also for its excellent prices and delightful service. It's frequently mentioned as a brilliant stop for those on a walk around Newlands Valley or Derwent Water, offering a welcome respite with warm drinks and tasty snacks. The clean facilities and friendly staff contribute to a positive and memorable experience.
Whether you're refueling after a kayaking session or simply seeking a picturesque spot for a coffee break, the Nichol End Marina cafe offers a charming and satisfying experience that enhances any visit to the area.






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