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The weather might not always be all that dependable in the UK, but what you can guarantee is plenty of great paddle boarding opportunities. Plus, there’s something to be said for braving the elements and getting out on your board on days when you might otherwise be inclined to stay indoors.
If lockdown has taught us anything, it’s that being outdoors is crucial to our health and wellbeing. And when it ends, people are no doubt going to make the most of the freedom to see more of the UK’s delights.
For those who own a paddle board or inflatable kayak – or are thinking about buying one – you have the perfect excuse to jump in the car and go exploring. But where should you head? We asked our community exactly that – here’s what they came up with:
1. Brighton
The UK’s hippest city has it all: kooky independent shops, a great eating and drinking scene and, of course, a cracking coastline. Brighton makes for the perfect weekend away – but the advice is to avoid Brighton beach with your paddleboard and head up the coast to Hove.
Between the piers is a no-go when the beach is busy as landing is difficult and there are lots of pieces of metal near the old West Pier submerged under the water proving a hazard. If you’re intent on paddleboarding in Brighton, go to the East of the Palace Pier but make sure you SUP with a friend for safety.
2. The Lake District
Ask anyone who has been to the Lake District what it’s likely and you will get the same answer: you’ve got to experience it for yourself. It’s largely considered the most beautiful area in England with more beauty spots than you can shake a stick at.
You really are spoilt for choice when it comes to paddle boarding in the Lake District. But Derwentwater is considered the jewel in the crown, with its numerous islands, secluded bays and river mouths provide a stunning back drop to your paddling experience.
3. Lake Windemere
The Lake District is so good we had to include it twice – this time England’s largest lake, spanning 10.5 miles long. There’s more to the Windermere area than the lake, of course, like The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction and Wray Castle, to name but a couple.
But the best way to really enjoy Windermere is to get on the lake. If you manage to paddle the length of Windermere, you’ll have completed one leg of the Three Lakes Challenge (Bala Lake in Wales and Loch Awe in Scotland being the other two legs).
4. River Avon
You’d be forgiven for thinking the River Avon is one the longest in the UK – that’s because there are seven ‘River Avons’. The one we’re referring to here is often called the Bristol Avon, running from Acton Turville to Avonmouth.
Due to the places the river flows through, it means the paddle is extremely picturesque in this part of the country. It’s a great place to paddle for those looking at paddling some easy but fast flowing white water. Saltford Weir is a popular spot for skilled boarders looking to practice their freestyle moves.
5. Broadsands Beach
With its magical wilderness of caves, tunnels and islands, Broadsands beach on Devon’s Exmoor coast has been voted Britain's happiest view in a survey by Best Western Great Britain.
With a view that good, we really don’t need to tell you why you should turn up with your paddle board. Go and see if you agree with the consensus!
Thanks to everyone who put forward their suggestions for places to paddle. For more tips from fellow paddleboarders – plus pro tips, latest product releases, product support and much more - follow Aquaplanet on social media.
If we've whetted your appetite for paddleboarding, check out our inflatable boards.
