Canoe Expedition: Keswick to Scarness - Adult groups

Three days, two lakes, one river

Join us for an 'adults only' three day canoe expedition in the stunning UNESCO world heritage site, exploring Derwentwater, the River Derwent and Bassenthwaite.

Suitable for beginners to canoeing, but also to groups looking forward to gaining and improving knowledge and experience. 

We also offer this journey in kayaks if preferred - just let us know.

Setting off from Hawse End on Saturday morning with your packed lunch, we paddle down Derwentwater and enter the River Derwent, known locally as the 'Middle Derwent', paddling along the gentle rapids, an excellent way to learn new skills or improve old ones!  With stunning panoramic views of the Skiddaw mountain range and the western fells, we enter Bassenthwaite Lake and continue the journey to Scarness.

Interestingly, Bassenthwaite Lake is the only body of water in the Lake District to use the word 'lake' in its title.  Rich in wildlife, the lake is home to many important habitats and species, including a breeding ground for rare Osprey, and the only remaining colonies of Vendace (a rare ice-age fish) in England.  You will also see the Bishop of Barf on your journey, a whitewashed pillar of rock perched high on the slopes of Barf Fell.  According to local legend, the rock marks the spot where the Bishop of Derry was killed when he fell off his horse in 1783 following a drunken bet.

From Scarness we disembark and return to Hawse End via minibus to enjoy another evening meal together and overnight accommodation.

Following another hearty Cumbrian breakfast on Sunday morning you will enjoy a dedicated paddle skills session on Derwentwater, followed by lunch and early afternoon departure.


  • 3 day, 2 night

  • available all year

  • minimum group charge applies

Canoe expeditions routemap