Hidden in the heart of London, amidst manicured lawns and flowery avenues, is the quiet cove that is Regent’s Park boathouse. Here you can hire a traditional boat or pedal catamaran and spend quiet hours admiring the reflections of park trees and the architecture of the Royal Parks.
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History of the Boating Station and its location
The Boating Station opened in the mid – 20th century on the southern shore of Boating Lake, an artificial body of water created under King George IV. The lake was originally used for landscaping, but quickly became popular with residents and tourists. Today the boat station is opposite Queen Mary’s Gardens, a famous rose garden, and within walking distance are outdoor theaters and cricket fields. It is conveniently accessible from Regent’s Park (Bakerloo line) or Great Portland Street (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan) tube stations.
Types of boats and rental services
Regent’s Park Boathouse is the place to be for water activities and an array of flexible services to make your lake vacation varied. Whether you prefer the secluded rhythm of paddling or pedaling hard, there’s an option for you. There are two main types of vessels available at the boathouse:
- Classic paddle boats. Single and double wooden boats with a set of oars. Suitable for leisurely strolls and admiring nature.
- Pedal catamarans (pedalo). Four – seater catamarans with pedals under each passenger. Convenient for families and companies, easy to steer and the center of gravity remains low.
During peak – season (May – September), special events also appear:
- Night cruises. The boats are equipped with lamps, and on weekend evenings they are driven with live music, creating an atmosphere of romance and light mystery.
- Themed Tours. Short tours with a professional guide who will tell you about the flora and fauna of the Royal Parks, as well as curious facts about their century-long history.
Each vessel is inspected to ensure it is in good working order before leaving, and on hire you will be given a lifejacket and a brief safety briefing. Upon return, renters can take free photos at the pier and use the nearby cafe for a relaxing shore break.
How to rent a boat or a pedalo?
Renting a water takes just a few steps:
- Approach the boathouse cash register at the Boating Lake south dock.
- Choose the type of boat and specify the desired rental time (minimum 30 minutes).
- Leave a deposit (contact number or £10 cash) and obtain a lifejacket.
- Sign the rental agreement with the basic conditions: adherence to speed limits and returning the boat to the mooring on time.
Standard rates:
- Paddle boat: £10.20 per 30 minutes, £12.90 per hour.
- Pedal catamaran: £12 per 30 minutes, £16 per hour.
Children under 12 are only allowed if accompanied by an adult and on a pedal catamaran no older than 12.
Safety and Comfort Tip
Be sure to wear a life jacket before going out on the water. It is provided free of charge with the boat. Remember the simple rules:
- Don’t go far from the dock alone.
- Avoid sudden movements to prevent the boat from capsizing.
- Don’t feed game from the side of the boat – leftover bread pollutes the water.
- In bad weather (high winds, thunderstorms) the boathouse is closed.
Wear a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes, as splashes can get your feet wet. Plan to rent 15 minutes before your desired time, especially on weekends when the line is longer.