canoeing in Cumbria

[ravenhair]

Any recommendations for watersports centres in the Lake District where my partner can have a weekend of being taught how to canoe and go off and do that all day whilst I can stay on terra firma (nice hotel? self-catering?), drinking wine all afternoon and reading my book? Oh, and without lots of school groups would be nice, but I realize that's a little uncharitable.

[MistyLady]

You should look in the Lake Windermere area of the Lakes. Try http://www.windermere-lake-holidays-afloat.co.uk/d
aily.htm for a starter. You can get lessons and then have the 10 mile stretch of the lake to check out the little islands and try out your new found skill. As far accomodation goes there are shed loads! Try contacting the Cumbrian Tourist board who will supply you with a large brochure of places. Have a great time, I go most years and love it.