Canoeing

Canoe enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with the region’s range of water features – from the vast lakes of Cumbria to numerous inland canals and the fast-flowing rivers coming down from the Pennine hills for the really adventurous.

In Cumbria, you can undertake a pleasant, flat paddle along the River Leven from Windermere, before taking a deep breath as the fun really starts. The river becomes a mass of white water after the Brick Shute, with a series of drops and even a section known as the Graveyard!

Greater Manchester’s industrial past has created numerous flashes such as Pennington in Wigan, whilst the numerous canals around Cheshire provide miles of water in which to paddle.
The Lancaster Canal is totally lock-free, making it perfect for canoeists.

The region’s large coastal expanse also provides great opportunities for enthusiasts to test their mettle out at sea.