JAG PICTURESGetty Images
Are you looking for the best places to go paddle board the UK? From glistening coastlines to open rivers and lakes, there are plenty of diverse waters on our doorstep that are perfect for exploring on board.
Before you zip up your wetsuit and head out to sea, it’s worth checking if there are any licensing requirements. Using a paddle board on the majority of inland waterways requires a license from the relevant authority, so we recommend checking first. No need for a permit to paddle at sea.
Whether you’re a novice, intermediate or pro, take a look at some of the best places to paddleboard in the UK…
Advertising – Continue Reading Below
Compton Bay, Isle of Wight
Known for its seaside promenades, chalky cliffs, rolling hills and sandy beaches, stand-up paddleboarding is becoming an increasingly popular way to explore the Isle of Wight. You do not know where to start ? Visit Compton Bay, one of the island’s best kept secrets. Once you’ve finished paddleboarding, why not try fossil hunting, surfing or wildlife viewing.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or have never tried paddle boarding before, Glencoe in Scotland is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and get out on the river. Head to Glencoe rugged coast to secure your spot, sign up for a class and discover what the region has to offer.
Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
Bournemouth, with its sandy beaches and sparkling waters, is the perfect place for stand-up paddleboarding. Ideal for beginners and pros alike, we recommend paddling along the coast towards Sandbanks or Hengistbury Head for the magnificent views. You can either do it yourself or rent a board through companies such as high school and the Watersports Academy.
The Thames, Shepperton, Surrey
Located 24 km from central London (50 minutes by train from Waterloo), Shepperton is famous for its privileged location on the River Thames. Recognized BSUPA school, Paddleis the best company to book, as you can request lessons, borrow boards, and even indulge in a bit of paddleboard yoga.
Nestled in a corner of glorious Mount’s Bay, Penzance has calm and inviting waters as it is naturally protected from wind and swell. You can either rent a board once there, or bring your own to explore the sparkling waters. Tip: The Abbey Slip offers easy access to the waters, although you should do this at the right time to ensure there is enough water to get back.
Belfast Lough, Northern Ireland
A sheltered haven of bays and coves, Belfast Lough is one of the best places to paddle board in Northern Ireland. If you are looking for lessons, Strangford Lough Activity Center is the place to go (sessions start from £40). Don’t forget to bring a towel, sunscreen and shoes that you can wear in the water. Surf!
Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight
Paddleboarding is one of the best ways to explore Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight. The large village, easily recognizable by its chalk cliffs, is a magnet for holidaymakers, surfers and paddle boarders. It has a wonderful pebble beach which is very popular all year round for swimming, walks and boating.
In Norfolk, Wensum Valley is one of the best places to paddleboard. With many sections listed as SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), the river flows through many important parts of Norfolk, including Carrow Road. Do you want to escape to the calm of the countryside? Take your board and ride this relaxing route. For the best paddle schools, try go paddling or summer SUP.
Ullswater Lake, Cumbria
Away from the bustle, Ullswater is the best base for outdoor activities in Cumbria. With a backdrop of beautiful steep hills, its peaceful setting lends itself perfectly to paddle boarding. Need lessons? Visit Wake & Surf to book lessons with the pros.
Porthcurno Beach, South Cornwall
Located at the bottom of Cornwall, Porthcurno Beach is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches – and one of the best places to paddle board in the region. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning granite cliffs, be sure to take a ride in the surf if you’re heading here on a stay. Don’t forget to wear a wetsuit: the water can be cold.
The River Tay, Perthshire, Scotland
The River Tay, Scotland’s longest river, is ideal for paddleboarding, thanks to its calmer waves and long flat sections. With great views over the tree-lined valley, this is the perfect spot for all paddleboard abilities. Our advice: go in October to enjoy the flamboyant colors of autumn.
Kingston upon Thames, London
You don’t need to rush to the coast to enjoy a paddle boarding session: city dwellers can enjoy the calming waters of the River Thames in Kingston. Whether you have your own board (buy our favorite board paddle boards here) or if you want to hire one, it’s the best paddleboarding experience London has to offer. Why not do a session during your lunch break?
Looking for a secret paddle boarding spot in the UK? Burgh Island, located just opposite Bigbury on Sea, is only accessible at low tide by a strip of sand (it is completely covered at high tide). It’s one of the best places to paddle board away from the crowds.
Cuckmere Haven, Seaford, East Sussex
Dominated by the white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters, Cuckmere Haven is one of the best places to paddleboard in East Sussex. A popular coastal hub, it offers great paddling routes for all abilities. Visit Buzz active for more information on equipment rental, trips, tours and lessons.
Mawddach Estuary, Snowdonia
The Mawddach Estuary is dominated by the peaks of Snowdonia and is one of the most breathtaking places to paddle board in the UK. This perfect estuary offers gentle waters (and stunning views) for paddling on a sunny afternoon. Visit SUP Barmouth for paddle board lessons that explore the area, or join one of their tours for something a little different.
Advertising – Continue Reading Below
Comments are closed.