What are the opening hours at Nene Outdoors?

Opening hours are available here. We may occasionally have to close early or restrict availability of certain craft due to weather conditions.  If you're planning a visit specially we advise you to check the Nene Outdoors Facebook page for updates on the day.

Do you take cash or card at the Centre?

Please note that we do only handle card or contactless transactions at Nene Outdoors.

Can I launch my own equipment and how much does it cost?

You are welcome to launch your own equipment during the Nene Outdoors opening hours, as long as you have appropriate 3rd party liability insurance.  Day launch costs £15 per craft.  When you arrive at Nene Outdoors please go to the reception to pay and sign to access the water.  You will also be required to show a copy of your insurance certificate, or your British canoeing membership if you have insurance through your membership.

Can I hire a buoyancy aid?

The wearing of buoyancy aids is mandatory for all activities on the lake.  Buoyancy aid hire is included with all boat hires and we have buoyancy aids to suit all sizes, including infants.  Anyone launching their own craft is expected to provide their own buoyancy aid.

How many people can you fit in a pedalo/kayak/canoe etc?

Single kayak - 1 person.

Double kayak - 2 people.

Open canoe - 3 to 4 people.

Rafted canoe - up to 6 people.

Rowing boat - up to 4 people.

Stand up paddleboard - 1 person.

Swan pedalo - up to 4 adults and 2 small children under 5yrs.

Can I hire a wetsuit?

Yes. Wetsuits are available to hire for use at Nene Outdoors for a cost of £5

Is there a minimum age for the pedalo hire and does a parent or guardian have to be with them if under 18?

There is no minimum age for children to be on the water accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Children need to be over the age of 8 to go on the water without a parent or guardian in the boat with them.  All children under the age of 18 must be supervised by an adult at all times.  The adult does not need to go on the water but must remain within the Lakeside area (having a drink on the café veranda is fine!).

Can I hire a boat if I am pregnant or have restricted mobility?

We aim to be as accessible as possible and are happy to let anyone hire one of our craft as long as our staff are satisfied that they have the capability to safely operate the craft they are hiring.  At the moment due to social distancing measures our staff will not be able to assist people getting into or out of the water craft.  Customers must be able to embark and disembark without additional support.  If customers have a specific medical condition they are advised to seek the advice of their doctor before hiring one of our craft or bikes.

Can I camp at Nene Outdoors?

Visitors can book a grass pitch in ‘The Glade’ campsite or a bell tent at ‘Lakeview’ campsite.  Both sites are located on the banks of Gunwade Lake close to Nene Outdoors, and have full access to toilet and shower facilities.  More information and a link to the online booking page is available here.

If you are interested in booking the entire campsite please email the team at [email protected] to check availability.

Can I book hire equipment in advance?

Water craft are available for advance booking to help you beat the queues, visit our booking system to make your booking.

All water craft are also available for drop-in bookings at Nene Outdoors.  Please be aware that on busy days our most popular crafts can book up quickly so please go to Nene Outdoors to make your booking at the start of your visit to avoid disappointment. 

Do you take group bookings and bookings for private tuition?

Yes! We deliver tuition in line with the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) and are well placed to cater for group bookings.  If you are interested in booking a group activity or private tuition please email [email protected] with your requirements.  A member of our team will then contact you to discuss what we are able to offer.

Is there an accessible changing facility at Nene Outdoors?

Yes. We have an accessible changing facility including a height adjustable changing bench, a hoist system and shower available at Nene Outdoors. This facility is available to those who need it during Nene Outdoors opening hours.  If anyone is planning a visit to the Park and will require use of the facility, they are advised to check in advance that Nene Outdoors will be open.

When does open water swimming take place?

Open water swimming starts in May and takes place every Thursday from 5:30-7:00pm, finishing in late September depending on the water temperature.  Swimmers must be registered with NOWCA (www.nowca.org)

Answers to most questions regarding our open water swimming sessions can be found on this link. Car parking is not included in cost of swim.