Nichol End Marine sits on the western shore of Derwentwater near the village of Portinscale, just outside Keswick.

It is a family-run waterfront business offering boat hire including kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, rowing boats, and dinghies, making it a practical launch point for exploring the lake's bays, beaches, and islands.

The site provides easy water access and serves as a stop on the Keswick Launch ferry route. A small on-site café is known for homemade cakes and scones.

Launching of privately owned craft is also permitted here, though fees apply and pre-booking is recommended on busy days.