A lake which is not used to hosting water sports proved kind to young and old as as they grabbed an oar and climbed aboard for an afternoon of paddleboarding.
Osterley Park’s middle lake is traditionally a calm and tranquil spot where the surface of the water is normally only broken by a passing swan or dabbling duck.
However, yesterday (Thursday) the National Trust which manages the house and grounds opened it up to the public for the first time in years.
Working with the London Youth Rowing organisation and their partners called Active 360 the trust welcomed a group of young people for a free session of one of the fastest growing sports around.
Out on the water the children and adults got a completely different perspective of the lake as well as a unique view of the house and park.
Under the watchful eye of professional tutors they were able to paddle past the flocks of Canadian Geese who have migrated over for the summer.
Osterley's sport development officer Seena Dickson said: "It’s not a scary activity, I tried it for the first time myself yesterday, my dry clothes at the end of it were a testament that anyone can do it!
"We have had people of all ages and abilities, from grandmothers out with their grandsons to people taking their dogs out on the boards with them!
"Why not come down and give it a try?"
Anyone who wants a chance to experience such an activity for themselves has got plenty of opportunity as identical events will be taking place on Tuesday (12), Wednesday (13) and Thursday (14) next week and then again on August 19-21 the week after.
Sessions are 10.30am-3pm.
The sessions are totally free and to take part all you need is to wear appropriate shoes and clothing for being outside and on the water.
For more information contact Sheena Dickson, on 0208 232 5050.
