Carsington Waterside – Outdoor Adventure

Discover your next outdoor adventure at Carsington Waterside, an exciting cycle and watersports activity centre set on the shores of beautiful Carsington Water in the heart of Derbyshire.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed family bike ride, want to try paddleboarding for the first time, fancy exploring the reservoir by kayak or simply want to spend more time outdoors, Carsington Waterside makes it easy to get active and enjoy one of Derbyshire’s most spectacular locations.

Just a short drive from Derby and within easy reach of the Peak District, Carsington Waterside is perfect for families, couples, groups of friends, students and anyone looking for an active day out in Derbyshire.

Cycle Hire

Explore Carsington Water and the surrounding Derbyshire countryside by bike.

Carsington Waterside offers a range of bikes for adults and children, making it easy for the whole family to get cycling. Helmets are provided, and our team can help you choose the right bike and suggest a route to suit your ability and the amount of time you have available.

The popular route around Carsington Water offers beautiful views across the reservoir and surrounding countryside, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way.

For those looking to venture further, Carsington is also a fantastic starting point for exploring the wider Derbyshire countryside by bike.

Paddleboarding & Kayaking

Take your adventure onto the water with stand-up paddleboard and kayak hire.

Whether you’re completely new to paddlesports or already comfortable on the water, our friendly team will help get you ready to enjoy your time at Carsington.

All the essential equipment is provided, including buoyancy aids and wetsuits, so you don’t need to arrive with specialist kit.

Choose a kayak and explore from the water or challenge yourself to stand-up paddleboarding. It’s a brilliant activity for couples, friends and families and a fantastic way to experience Carsington Water from a completely different perspective.

If you’ve always wanted to try paddleboarding or kayaking but haven’t known where to start, Carsington Waterside is the perfect place to give it a go.

Ride, Paddle & Make a Day of It

Why choose between land and water?

Combine cycling and paddlesports for a full outdoor adventure. Head out on a bike before swapping your helmet for a buoyancy aid and taking to the water.

Our combined activity options are ideal for visitors who want to make the most of their trip to Carsington and experience more than one activity during their visit.

It’s a great choice for family days out, birthdays, groups of friends, university groups, team days and celebrations.

Open-Water Swimming

Carsington Waterside is also developing its open-water swimming programme, giving swimmers the opportunity to experience the spectacular surroundings of Carsington Water from the water itself.

Swimming sessions and special events will be announced throughout the season, with facilities and safety at the heart of the experience.

Everything You Need for an Easy Day Outdoors

You don’t need to be an experienced cyclist or paddler to visit Carsington Waterside.

Our aim is to make outdoor adventure friendly, accessible and straightforward.

Facilities include changing areas, wetsuits, buoyancy aids, cycle helmets, Wi-Fi and hot and cold drinks, with our team on hand to help you get ready for your activity.

Once your adventure is over, take some time to relax and enjoy the view across the water.

Families Welcome

Carsington Waterside is a great way to get children away from screens and into the outdoors.

Go cycling together, try a new watersport or turn your visit into a full day of family adventure.

During school holidays, look out for seasonal activities, special offers and family events, giving you another reason to return throughout the year.

Groups, Clubs & Organisations

We’re also happy to hear from groups looking for something a little different.

Carsington Waterside can provide outdoor activities for clubs, universities, friendship groups, community organisations, corporate groups, celebrations and organised days out.

Activities can be tailored depending on the size and requirements of your group, with cycling and paddlesports offering plenty of possibilities for an active day together.

A Different Side of Derbyshire

Derbyshire is famous for its hills, trails and beautiful countryside, but some of its best adventures happen on the water.

At Carsington Waterside you can cycle beside the reservoir in the morning, paddle across the water in the afternoon and finish your visit taking in the view.

You can come for an hour, spend half a day with us or build Carsington Waterside into a full day exploring this beautiful part of Derbyshire.

No complicated equipment and no need to be an expert.

Just come ready for an adventure.

Plan Your Visit

Carsington Waterside is located at Carsington Water, Derbyshire, within easy travelling distance of Derby, Ashbourne, Matlock and the Peak District.

Advance booking is recommended, particularly during weekends and school holidays.

Cycle Hire • Paddleboard Hire • Kayak Hire • Open-Water Swimming • Group Activities • Family Adventures