THE 25 BEST PLACES TO PADDLE BOARD IN THE UK

by Hicham Benali on Jun 08, 2022

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Paddle boarding is one of your favorite pastimes. As a result, you're always on the hunt for good paddling spots. To help you get started, we've compiled a comprehensive list of some of the top paddling spots in the UK. These incredible places will not only captivate you but will also leave an indelible imprint on you.

Before going into details, make sure to join our SUP Facebook Group, where our friendly staff and SUP specialist will give you the best support and help to get started!

Now that you part of our community, let's start with my first recommendation of the best places to go paddle boarding in the United Kingdom.

ENGLAND

RIVER TRENT, STAFFORDSHIRE

BEST FOR AMAZING SCENERIES (ANCHOR CAVES)

River_trent_by_Peter_Lomas

River Trent

Courtesy to Peter Lomas

Wondering where can I take my paddle board near me in England?The River Trent is without a doubt one of the most thrilling places to go paddle boarding in England today. This 185-mile river winds its way through the Midlands shires, passing through Nottingham and Stoke before joining the River Ouse. It is the third-longest river in the United Kingdom, which means it will give you a superb tour and sightseeing opportunity in a variety of ways.

The Anchor Church, a complex of caves near Ingleby in Derbyshire, is one of the main attractions. In the 6th century, it was the home of an Anchorite hermit. Furthermore, it is now home to some of the best wildlife, in addition to being a geological site. As you paddle down this river, there are plenty of things to look at. You won't be able to get enough of it.

WEST CLIFF BEACH, WHITBY

BEST FOR LEARNING AND IMPROVING YOUR SUP SKILLS.

West_Cliff-Peter_Etchells

West Cliff

Courtesy to Peter Etchells

If you want to improve your SUP paddling skills and become a pro, this is the place to go. It's essentially a huge, sandy beach that stretches for over 2 miles with a shallow gradient that's ideal for beginners and advanced paddle boarders.

CUCKMERE HAVEN, EAST SUSSEX

BEST FOR SUNSET PADDLING AND OBSERVING WILDLIFE

Cuckmere_Haven_by_Anna_Owen

Cuckmere Haven

Courtesy to Anna Owen

Cuckmere Haven, located near the confluence of the River Cuckmere and the English Channel, is the next stop for paddle boarders looking to unwind after a long week at the office.

This section of the river is non-tidal and flows towards the shore and the picturesque Seven Sisters of Sussex, making it a must-see for anyone searching for a peaceful and relaxing paddle. It's also a great place to paddle at sunset. You will not only be able to admire the natural beauty of the area, but you will also be able to predict when the bird life will become even more active.

Your adventure begins at the public Slipway at Seven Sisters Country Park and continues along the picturesque Cuckmere Valley. This will take you into shallow, reedy water and provide you the opportunity to see a variety of species.

KINGSTON UPON THAMES, LONDON

BEST GETAWAY FROM THE NOISE OF THE CITY

kingston_by_Rachel_Matthews

Kingston Upon Thames

Courtesy to Rachel Matthews

You must go paddling at this one location if you want to spend some calm time on the lake away from the city's commotion. There's a leafy town market on the Thames's south bank to add to the thrill.

Because it is a non-tidal river, you may expect to spend some time resting while doing what you enjoy the most. Bottom line; It's a lovely and peaceful area, ideal for getting away from the city and resting after a long week at work. It will leave you feeling revitalized and renewed; just ready for another busy week in the office.

CONISTON WATER, CUMBRIA

BEST FOR SIGHTSEEING AND A GOOD TIME WITH YOUR PET

coniston

Coniston

 

This is unquestionably another great site for paddle boarding today. If you're searching for a terrific magnificent paddling boarding experience, then this one place in the Lake District is an excellent choice. It could be one of the best places for you and your dog to enjoy paddle boarding together.

GRAND UNION CANAL

BEST FOR AN EPIC MULTI-DAY TOUR

Grand_canal_by_Stephen_Green

Grand Canal

Courtesy to Stephen Green

You may travel all the way from London to Birmingham. With a distance of 17 miles, there's no way you won't enjoy yourself on this trip. After all, you'll not only be able to enjoy a relaxing paddle , but you'll also be able to meet new people on their boats, making this a trip worth taking; you might even make new friends along the way.

There are several spots to launch from, but Wilton Locks, near Northampton, is highly recommended. While you may be compelled to exit the water at locks (waterway junctions where water levels are adjusted for boats), the setup should be straightforward, especially if you want to have a good time.

BURGH ISLAND, SOUTH DEVON

BEST FOR CIRCUMNAVIGATING COASTAL ISLANDS

Burgh_Island-Nicola_Margaret

Burgh Island

Courtesy to Nicola Margaret

There are numerous reasons why this location is a fantastic choice if you want to have a pleasant time while paddling. You'll get the perfect opportunity to explore the caverns around this stunning little island just off Bantham Beach's shore. You'll have to wait until the tide rises high enough for you to paddle across it. It's also a terrific way to meet other people who are making the same journey to land on the famous Sea Tractor on the islands.

PENZANCE, CORNWALL

GREAT FOR SEA LIFE SAFARIS

Penzance1_by_penofpaul

Penzance

Courtesy to penofpaul

Asking for an aquatic life paddle boarding location near me in Cornwall? You definitely have to take your paddling boarding activities to Penzance, Cornwall.

A trek around the southern tip of St. Michael Mounts can be started from the long expanses of Marazion Beach. Along the journey, you'll come across some of the most fascinating sea creatures. From starfish to jellyfish, you'll see a variety of aquatic life. Not only that, but you might even spot a grey seal or a pod of beautiful dolphins if you're lucky. You're not going to stop there; you'll see a variety of sea birds along the Cornish Cliffs' stunning skyline.

SYMONDS YAT, WYE VALLEY

BEST FOR ALL LEVELS

Symonds-yat-by_Graham_Hobster

Symonds Yat

Graham Hobster

This spot is not only a SUP paradise, but you'll be gliding alongside other water enthusiasts such as kayakers and canoeists adding more fun. You can paddleboard your way through the forested river gorge on the English-Welsh border.

Kerne Bridge is a great place to start for beginners , and if you're an experienced paddler, you can continue the voyage all the way down to Wye's Grade 2 rapids. You might start 13 miles upstream in Ross Wyne if you have the stamina and energy. The bottom line, it's a fantastic location that will undoubtedly provide you with a fun and exciting paddle boarding experience.

RIVER CAM, CAMBRIDGE

BEST FOR HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE

River Cam

River Cam

 

You can begin your journey in Jesus Green, where a tranquil river will welcome you into a new world of well-known Cambridge punters. We're talking about a city that is both historically significant and architecturally stunning.

You'll also walk through some of the university's most prestigious institutions, including King's, Trinity, and St Catherine's.

It doesn't stop there; later on your tour of the medieval city, you'll travel beneath the beautiful Bridge of Sighs and the magnificent Mathematical Bridge. The sights you'll see here will definitely enthrall you.

ULLSWATER, LAKE DISTRICT

BEST FOR BIG LAKE PADDLING EXPERIENCE

ullswater

Ullswater

 

Paddle paddling on a sunny afternoon in Ullswater, Lake District, while seeing the spectacular Helvellyn Mountain, which stands at 635 meters, is a must. One of the best features is that you don't have to carry your own board; there are a variety of board rental alternatives to suit your needs.

Start your day in Glenridding Village's Streamer Pier Cark Park and end it at Pooley Bridge. It is possible that the voyage will take you roughly 3 hours to finish. Don't be fooled by the calm aspect of the lakes.

Winds might gust up to 30 miles per hour, with waves reaching 3 to 4 meters in height. This may make things more difficult for you, but the level of excitement and adventure it gives makes it a great adventure to take on right now. You must try your hand at paddling in this particular lake.

BRIGHTON, EAST SUSSEX

BEST FOR MULTI TOUR

brighton-Howard_Walsh

Brighton

Courtesy to Howard Walsh

Going to Brighton, a wonderful seaside resort in the United Kingdom, is not only a great way to meet the locals, but it also has some of the best paddle boarding routes in the world. The fact that these properties are so close to the city center is a plus.

Some of the better options include West Pier to Palace Pier, Palace Pier to Marina, Southwick to the Marina, and River Adur to Kings Head. As you're probably aware, all of these routes are tidal and windy. As a result, you should double-check that you have all of the required skills before going here.

WOOLACOMBE SANDS, DEVON

BEST FOR BEGINNERS AND WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

Woolacombe

Woolacombe

 

Woolacombe Sands is gradually becoming not just one of the top holiday locations, but also one of the best surf spots. It is a great joy for beginners because it is large and spacious. We're not done yet; you'll be able to explore the North Devon coastline while observing animals thanks to the calm and flat summer days.

Looking for a beginner’s paddle board? check these affordable and reliable ones from Outdoor Master.

ST AGNES, CORNWALL

BEST FOR WILDLIFE VIEWING

ST_AGNES

St Agnes

 

This is a stunningly beautiful part of Cornwall's north coast. You will get the most out of it if you go paddling here. A wide diversity of wildlife species can be found here. You will undoubtedly love not only paddling on your paddle board but also the range of activities and sights available to you while you are there, making your trip well worth your time and money.

HICKLING BROAD, NORFOLK BROADS

BEST FOR WILDLIFE SEEING AND EXPLORING

HICKLING_BROAD

Hickling Board

 

Without a doubt, this particular location is any SUP enthusiast paradise. It is flat and meandering, which makes it not only one of the most thrilling and relaxing experiences, but also makes sense for beginners.

For paddle boarders, this one area is a true jewel. We're talking about 120 miles of navigable canals, seven rivers, and 63 boards that will take you on an unending trip of possibilities. We haven't even started yet. As a bonus, because it is surrounded by reed beds, you'll undoubtedly see some of the country's rarest wildlife while doing what you love.

However, to avoid getting into trouble, keep in mind that in order to paddle there, you must first obtain a license from the Broads Authority.

NORTHERN IRELAND

STRANGFORD LOUGH, COUNTY DOWN

BEST FOR BREATHTAKING SIGHTSEEING

STRANGFORD_LOUGH

Strangford Lough

 

It is something many of you are not aware of. Ireland is not only powered by magical folklore, but its stunning scenery makes it a destination worth visiting and SUP paddling around. Strangford Lough is the place to go if you want to have a good time paddle boarding. Northern Island, which is made up of a tangle of canals, is not only the country's largest inlet, but it's also a great destination for adventure as you explore remote islands

WALES

CARDIFF BAY

BEST FOR SEEING THE WELSH CAPITAL

cardiff-bay-Mark_Lehoczki

Cardiff Bay

Courtesy to Mark Lehoczki

This is the place to go if you want to experience the Welsh capital from a new perspective. Cardiff Bay is a fashionable area with a beautiful waterfront ideal for paddle boarding. If you don't want to get into problems with the authorities, only launch from Cardiff Harbor Authority-approved points along the course.

MAWDDACH ESTUARY, MID-WALE

BEST FOR CRUISEY SUP TOURS

Looking to have the time of your life while seeing the sights and doing what you love, which is paddleboarding? This is where you should be. This area, alone, is undoubtedly the greatest for those cruisey SUP cruises, as it is watched over by the peaks of the Snowdonia National Park and surrounded by forested hillsides.

You might start at Penmaenpool's George III and finish at Barmouth's Last Inn. SUP Barmouth can provide you with equipment as well as guided trips to make things easier and more enjoyable for you. It doesn't get any better than that.

Chasing Blue | ORION by Michael_Ugrich

Chasing blue Orion Touring iSUP board

Courtesy to Michael Ugrich

You don't have your own touring paddle board yet? check the Chasing Blue | ORION from Outdoor Master.

BLACK ROCK SANDS, PORTHMADOG

BEST FOR SIGHTSEEING AND EXPLORATION

If you are looking for some fun out there with your boards, Black Rock Sands, Porthmadog, and a wide sandy beach will make a lot of sense to you. It is an amazing location for paddleboard exploration. There is a lot to see in this world, including rock pools, caves, and breathtaking cliffs. Plus, with this calm beach, you'll be able to enjoy yourself in a very relaxing environment.

STACKPOLE QUAY TO BARAFUNDLE BAY, PEMBROKESHIRE

BEST FOR COASTAL WILDLIFE

BARAFUNDLE_BAY_-_Ian_Wool

Barafundle Bay

Courtesy to Ian Wool

Asking where can I go paddle boarding near me in Wales? This beautiful and majestic coastline is not only a great site to paddle board, but it also offers the opportunity to see some of the most incredible coastal wildlife. This explains why so many boards are coming to this spot. You can't go wrong with this; the limestone cliffs, sandy bays, and sparkling waters will undoubtedly brighten your day.

If you want to see some spectacular landscape, head to the southeast section between Stackpole Quay and Barafundle Bay. You'll not miss a sighting of some of the ocean's magnificent animals like dolphins, sharks, and porpoises as you travel between cliffs and caverns.

BALA LAKE-WALES

BEST FOR BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN SCENERY

bala-lake-Declan_Hobley

Bala Lake

Courtesy to Declan Hobley

The lake is not only Wales paddleboarding's largest freshwater natural lake,, but it is also flanked by Snowdonia's magnificent hills, which will leave you breathless. It's no surprise that this location is quickly becoming one of the greatest for water activities during the summer.

The rivers Tryweryn and Dee give water to this lake from both sides, making it an excellent paddling spot. Whether you're interested in paddle boarding or other water activities, you'll be well-covered.

With a length of one mile and a width of one mile, the lake is ideal for a fast paddle. If you're looking for a challenge, however, a 7-mile circular circuit is an option. You might also go wild swimming, which is possible in a number of wonderful locations.

It is without a doubt desirable to continue your paddling hobby there. To avoid getting into problems with the local authorities, remember to obtain permission from the Snowdonia National Park, which costs only £4 per day.

SCOTLAND

GLENCOE, SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

BEST FOR A WILD ESCAPE

glencoe-Paul_Edney

Glencoe

Paul Edney

This is the spot to go next if you're looking for a fantastic Scotland paddle boarding place to go paddle boarding in Scotland. The crystal clear water and lovely surroundings will make you enjoy being here in so many ways. It turns out to be a terrific place to go if you're looking for a bit of a wild escape. In a variety of ways, you'll be overjoyed.

LOCH NESS, SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

BEST FOR LITTLE ADVENTURE AND SIGHTSEEING

Loch_ness-Bernhard_Starck

Loch Ness

Courtesy to Bernhard Starck

If you're planning on taking your paddle boarding trip to Scotland, Loch Ness, a freshwater lake, should be your first stop. It is quickly becoming one of the paddle boarders' favorite spots for a variety of reasons. It stretches over around 23 miles and is a fantastic area to go paddle boarding. We've even discussed the surroundings, which boast some of the best vistas in the world.

THE RIVER TAY, PERTHSHIRE, SCOTLAND

BEST FOR SIGHTSEEING AND THRILLING PADDLING

river_tay-James_Glen

the River Tay

Courtesy to James Glen

If you're looking for a chance to see salmon and otters while paddle boarding, this is the place to go. This spot is a paddle boarding enthusiast's dream, winding through the gorgeous mountains while catching a breath of fresh air.

There are stretches of Scotland's longest river that will steal your breath away, in addition to the great pleasures it offers. For example, the rapids and fast-moving water of the Stanley and Thistlebrig rivers will keep you on your toes. If you're searching for a little peace and quiet, the beginning at Tay Forest Park and Ballinluig Village is your only option. If you're looking for a little history, the historic town of Dunkeld, where you may rent a kit, will provide you with enough of it.

NORTH COAST 500, SCOTLAND

BEST FOR AN INCREDIBLE SUP SAFARI

North_Coast_500

North Coast 500

 

Do you want to go on an epic SUP safari? This is, without a doubt, where you should be going next. You can depart from Talmine, a little village in Scotland's far north, and travel directly to the magnificent Rabbit Islands. While you should check local tides and currents before embarking, this excursion will take you not just to isolated the best beaches for paddle boarding, but also to white sand beaches that will take your breath away.

If you want to see more, take the North Coast 500 driving route; after all, with 500 miles of lochs, beaches, and rivers, this route has all you need for an amazing surfing adventure. Paddle Surf Scotland will take care of any planning and maybe a kit. The nicest aspect is that they are in Aberdeen, which is also where the tour begins and ends.

FINAL THOUGHT

So, if you're a SUP enthusiast looking for a place to paddle in the UK, we hope the above list has provided you with some answers. This selection of destinations will not only take your breath away but will also appeal to a wide range of people. Whether you're looking for a little adventure and sightseeing or just some alone and relaxing time in the great outdoors, one of these will surely meet your needs.

If you are new to this water activity and you do not have your own paddle board yet, check the ones on the Outdoor Master store, they are affordable and reliable.

Hicham Benali

Hicham Benali

Ben is a content writer at Outdoor Master who loves all things outdoor, and nature is his happy place.

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