Kayaking on Ladybower Reservoir

Paddle across Ladybower Reservoir, famous as the location for The Dam Busters film and training site for Dambusters raids in World War II. Peak District Water Sports runs beginner-friendly sessions with instruction in kayak handling, paddle technique, and water safety. The 5-mile-long reservoir sits at 1,000 feet in the Peak District, surrounded by moorland. Most paddlers complete 4-6 miles depending on wind and experience. Best for Families and beginners to kayaking. This is a easy activity lasting 3 hours. Group size: 6-12. You meet at Ladybower Reservoir visitor centre. Key highlights: Paddle across the same water used for World War II Dambusters training exercises, striking views of moorland and the dam structure (1,296-foot concrete wall), Small groups (max 12) with personal attention from instructors.

Price: £42

Duration: 3 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 6-12

Minimum age: 8+ (younger with adult)

Best for: Families and beginners to kayaking

Best time: May to September. Water is calmest in June-July (fewer strong winds). April-October is paddling season. November-March can be very cold and windy. Avoid after heavy rain (reservoir can be choppy and releases debris).

Meeting point: Ladybower Reservoir visitor centre

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

9:30am Arrival and safety briefing - Check in at visitor centre. Review safety rules, emergency procedures, and weather conditions.

9:45am Wet suit fitting and equipment check - Put on provided wet suit (water temperature 8-15°C). Instructor checks fit of PFD (life jacket) and kayak.

10:00am Paddle technique training in shallow water - Learn forward stroke, reverse stroke, and turning in 6 feet of water. Practice stopping and emergency procedures.

10:30am Open water paddle across the reservoir - Paddle in formation with instructor leading. Route covers calmer sections. Instructors manage pace for all fitness levels.

12:15pm Cool-down and debrief - Return to shore. Remove wet suit. Discuss what you learned and ask questions about continuing kayaking.

The whole experience takes 3 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Ladybower Reservoir visitor centre.

• Paddle across the same water used for World War II Dambusters training exercises
• striking views of moorland and the dam structure (1,296-foot concrete wall)
• Small groups (max 12) with personal attention from instructors
• Wet suit provided (water is cold: 8-15°C year-round)
• Ladybower sits at 1,000 feet - feel a altitude change within 20 minutes of Sheffield city

What is included: Kayak and paddle, Personal flotation device (PFD/life jacket), Wet suit (to size), 3-hour instruction and guided paddle, Water safety and rescue briefing.

Not included: Transport to/from visitor centre (20 minutes from Sheffield centre), Food and drink, Changing facilities (basic toilets available), Towel (bring your own). You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Swimsuit or quick-dry clothing under wet suit, Towel, Change of clothes in car, Waterproof bag for belongings (you'll get wet), Sunscreen (reflected off water intensifies UV). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September. Water is calmest in June-July (fewer strong winds). April-October is paddling season. November-March can be very cold and windy. Avoid after heavy rain (reservoir can be choppy and releases debris)..

Tip: Wetsuit provided

Tip: 20 minutes drive from Sheffield centre

Accessibility: Suitable for all fitness levels. Swimming ability helpful but not essential (you wear a PFD). Mobility aids can transfer into kayak with assistance. Water is cold year-round - not suitable for people with cold sensitivity. Limited wheelchair access to visitor centre but staff can assist..

Operator: Peak District Water Sports

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Peak District National Park (Adjacent walk)

This activity is run by Peak District Water Sports.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 72 hours before. 48-72 hours: 50% refund. Less than 48 hours: non-refundable..

Accessibility: Suitable for all fitness levels. Swimming ability helpful but not essential (you wear a PFD). Mobility aids can transfer into kayak with assistance. Water is cold year-round - not suitable for people with cold sensitivity. Limited wheelchair access to visitor centre but staff can assist..

Best time to go: May to September. Water is calmest in June-July (fewer strong winds). April-October is paddling season. November-March can be very cold and windy. Avoid after heavy rain (reservoir can be choppy and releases debris)..

Is kayaking safe for children?

Yes. Children aged 8+ can kayak with adult supervision. Instructors teach water confidence and safety. All kayakers wear PFDs. Small children sit in tandem kayaks with adults. No swimming ability required.

Why is the water so cold?

Ladybower is a deep reservoir (255 feet at dam) fed by moorland streams. Water temperature stays 8-15°C year-round. Provided wetsuits are 3mm thick, keeping you warm. Most paddlers feel fine after 10 minutes in the water.

Can I see the Dam Busters dam?

Yes. The paddle passes near Ladybower Dam (1,296 feet long). From water level, the dam looks massive. Instructors stop for photos and explain the engineering. You'll also see Howden Dam upstream (less famous, also impressive).