Within the UK we are spoilt with locations ideal for paddle boarding. So here are the best rivers, lakes and beaches to visit wherever you are in the country (North, east, south, west, Scotland and Northern Ireland).
Photos: 1,2&3 - Flamborough (East Riding of Yorkshire), 4 - Loch Ness (Scotland) and 5 - The River Ouse (York).
Best rivers:
- River Ouse, York - NORTH
This is a nice place for the more experienced paddle board owners due to unexpected wind exposure in areas. But equally for the beginners you can hire canoes and kayaks locally to enjoy the city from the water.
- River Cam, Cambridge - EAST
This is perfect for anyone wanting to paddle board in a more historic location.
- The River Thames, London - SOUTH
Kindston-upon-Thames is a gentle spot to head for a safe place to learn. With plenty of banks to stop off and have a snack break, it's ideal for a day out. There are plenty of choices in companies to hire paddle boards and get some lessons within London which make it a brilliant southern choice.
- The River Stour, Wiltshire/Dorset - WEST
Water so clear you can see all the fish, this is one beautiful location. You can start paddling at Eye Bridge Weir, parking available in a National Trust Car Park and enjoy the rural waters. Be wary, this car park is renown for thefts from car.
- The River Tay, Perthshire - SCOTLAND
Not only renown for the white water rapids for the more confident SUP(ers) but there is also calmer waters nearer to, Dunkeld, the historic town.
- River Lagan, Drumbed - NORTHERN IRELAND
Park and launch in Drumbeg, paddle through Belfast and if you were to keep going you would reach the Irish Sea. You will most likely see plenty of birds, for example the yellow bellied slider turtles.
Best Lakes:
- Ullswater, Lake District - NORTH
13km long and the Helvellyn Mountain over looking the river this is one beautiful place to go paddle boarding. Take your own board or contact 'Ullswater Paddleboarding' to hire!
-Stanborough Park Water Sports Centre, Hertfordshire - EAST
A beautiful country side location with 2 lakes. From open water swimming, paddle boarding and more this park is ideal for a day of trying something new like paddle boarding.
- Cotswold Water Park Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire - SOUTH
This water park has over 150 lakes and waterways that cover 3 counties. You can hire and get SUP lessons here. The River Coln eventually reaches the water park too if you fancy a bigger and more independent experience.
- Bala Lake, Bala, Wales - WEST
Bala Lake is the largest natural lake in Wales and renown for the mountain landscape. Not only a beautiful place with scenic picnic potential but this is also a perfect location for paddle boarding.
-Loch Ness - SCOTLAND
The Loch Ness is connected to the River Oich which can be paddled along too. There are plenty of places to hire boards from or you can take your own! Such a scenic and well known place to visit. It's a must for all paddle boarders. Fun fact; Loch Ness contains more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined...
Best Sea SUP(ing):
-Flamborough, East Riding of Yorkshire - NORTH
Rugged white cliffs, Flamborough Head is a beach lovers' paradise. Puffins and other birds can be seen here. This is a truly special place for a paddle. There are places locally where you can hire boards too.
- Burnham Overy, Norfolk - EAST
With places to hire, learn and launch your own boards this is a lovely area to get started. A place with idilic opportunities to explore the eastern coast.
- Penzance, Cornwall - SOUTH
We couldn't have missed out Cornwall, a classic english beach location. A definite must go with plenty of water sport opportunities.
- Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales - WEST
This coastline is a particularly scenic route with a chance of seeing dolphins on the local guided route with 'Reef Surf School'.
- The Moray Coast - SCOTLAND
With shallow waters and plenty of hire options, the Moray Coast is an idilic place for families to try paddle boarding out. The Moray Coast is renown for calm harbours and gorgeous Scottish beaches.
-Strangford Lough, County Down - NORTHERN IRELAND
The east coast has opportunities for those in need of hiring a board, NI SUP, around Greyabbey. But if you have your own board explore the more southern areas. These channel mazes have more than 70 islands.
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