Carsington Water, Derbyshire
Within the Peak District of Derbyshire, this stretch of water boasts a friendly windsurfing scene, surrounded by some amazing scenery and parks. Opened by the Queen in 1992, it is an excellent venue for introducing people to the sport or for those progressing. A trip to Carsington can be combined with all the other activities that the Peak District has to offer.
- Beach Faces:
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East
- Best Wind Direction:
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All directions are sailable although SW is cross shore. NW winds are offshore at the launch point but give you the whole stretch of the lake for a really long blast. NE winds get funnelled down to the club and give a good bit of chop.
- What’s On The Bottom:
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Mud
- Any Hazards:
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The odd fisherman and his long line
- Other Water Users:
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Lots of dinghy sailors, rafting, kayaks and some fishermen
- Suitability / Levels:
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Beginners to Advanced. The water stretch is very long so it is good for a blast. Keeping near to the beach there is an island to land on for the beginner and there is always rescue cover.
- Wipeout Factor:
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Only if you are good at catapulting!
- Instruction:
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Yes, Carsington Sports and Leisure. £10.00 per person for 1.5 hours Tel. 01629 540478
- Kit Hire:
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Yes, Carsington Sports and Leisure.
- Friendly Factor:
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In the summer, a family day out with BBQ’s and beers on the beach is much the norm at Carsington. Always plenty of people trying the sport for the first time.
- No Wind Alternatives:
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In the summer, a family day out with BBQ’s and beers on the beach is much the norm at Carsington. Always plenty of people trying the sport for the first time.
Facilities:
| Toilets |
Yes |
|---|---|
| Shower |
Yes |
| Windsurfing Shop |
Onsite and Nobles is based in nearby Loughborough www.nobleboards.co.uk01509 881111 |
| Food |
The visitors centre has restaurants, shops and cafés plus some activities |
| Parking |
You have to pay in the summer for the main car parks, but sailing club members get parking included, behind the Angling Club. It is best to speak to the centre first. |
| Pub |
The Knockerdown, which also serves good food. But there are many others in the area. |
- Accommodation:
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www.peakdistrict-nationalpark.com has a comprehensive guide of places to stay within the area.www.visitpeakdistrict.com boasts a database of all amenities in the Peak District. Knockerdown Farm Holiday Cottages are minutes away from the reservoir. Tel.01629 540525
Rivendale Caravan and Leisure Park is in nearby Ashbourne. Tel.01335 310311 cres@rivendalecaravanpark.co.uk
For camping try the Blackwall Plantation.
- Local Hotshots:
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Richard Jones is an up and coming local lad.
- Extra:
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Good Team15 set up based at the Centre. One third of the reservoir is set aside for conservation work.
- How To Get There:
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You need to get onto the A50, either from Jnc15 of the M6 or Jnc24 of the M1. Once on the A50, follow signs to Uttoxeter with the aim of heading towards Ashbourne. From the A50 take the A515 to Ashbourne. From Ashbourne take the B5035 for about 5 miles then take a left towards Upper Town. You will see sign posts for Carsington Water and the Centre from here
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