Here Are 5 Great Locations in the (UK) United Kingdom For Stand Up Paddle Boarding

 Here Are 5 Great Locations in the (UK) United Kingdom For Stand Up Paddle Boarding 

If you are into SUP and haven’t visited the UK. Then you are in luck. We are about to share some great locations in the United Kingdom for stand up paddle boarding.

The UK or United Kingdom is made up of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This sovereign country is found in the North West of Europe. The UK is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect location for water sport activities such as paddle boarding.

The UK offers many incredible locations to go paddle boarding from it’s coastlines to secluded lakes. Here are our top 5 must-visit locations:

Penzance, Cornwall, England

Penzance, Cornwall United Kingdom For Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Penzance, Cornwall by gnomonic

Location and History

Penzance is a town in the Penwith district of Cornwall. Facing Southeast onto the English Channel. Originally known as Penn Sans, meaning holy headland, Penzance started as a small fishing village before growing to a town in the 14th century.

After the plague outbreak. Penzance took years to recover before becoming a flourishing port and market town. Fast forward to the 21st century, Penzance still thrives as a popular tourist destination.

Why is it a great place to visit?

  • Clear waters
  • Abundant sea life
  • Paddle board hire
  • Lifeguarded
  • Seafront facilities

 

Why is it a great place for stand up paddlers?

Penzance is a popular paddle boarding spot, especially for wildlife lovers. The Cornish sea is known for its abundance of sea life including jellyfish, starfish, dolphins, seals, and basking sharks.

Paddle around St Michael’s Mount for a relaxing day out on the water. The water at Penzance is generally calm, making it great for beginners.

 

Kingston Upon Thames, London, England

River Thames In London
River Thames – Hampton Court Palace – Hampton Court Bridge by ell brown

Location and History

Kingston Upon Thames is an ancient market town within Greater London. Located on the River Thames. In Saxon times Kingston Upon Thames had royal links but after the Norman conquest the town lost its right to crown there.

The town was known for its crop, wool, and salmon distribution. Later in the 19th century, brick making and aircraft manufacturing became the town’s main exports.

Why is it a great place to visit?

  • Paddle board hire
  • Calm water
  • Near the city
  • Populated with food and drink facilities

Why is it a great place for stand up paddlers?

This is the perfect location for paddle boarders on a city break. Enjoy the suburban cultural landmarks of London while traveling along the River Thames. Due to the built-up nature of the town, there are many food and drink places along the way. Meaning you can spend the whole afternoon out on the water.

The river is extremely calm and great for beginners. Or even those looking for a chilled day on the water. If long journeys aren’t your thing no problem. There are many take-off spots along the river you can get out more or less whenever you want.

 

Loch Harport, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Loch Harport, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Loch Harport, Skye by arripay

Location and History

Loch Harport is a small sea loch off the North West of Skye facing West. Close to the small village of Carbost. Loch Harport is a great place to visit if you want a nice village getaway.

Carbost is also home to the famous Talisker Distillery. Perfect for a warm whiskey post paddle. Cuillin mountains in the background make this destination the perfect holiday destination.

Why is it a great place to visit?

  • Secluded
  • Quiet area
  • Mountain top views
  • Peaceful and calm

Why is it a great place for stand up paddlers?

Calm waters in a secluded destination makes this location a calming retreat away from the crowds. Due to the isolated nature of the location there are not many facilities nearby. However, this also detracts from the large crowds.

Very few people will be on the water giving you the feeling of having the whole place to yourself. This is great if you want to practice yoga or meditation on your sup board while out on the water.

The Cuillin mountains create an amazing view of the snow-capped peaks. Loch Harport is a must-see destination if you’re looking for some peace and serenity on the water.

 

Black Rock Sands, Gwynedd, Wales

Black Rock Sands, Gwynedd, Wales
Black Rock Sands by Kez Price

Location and History

Black Rock Sands is a wide sandy beach located just outside the village of Morfa Bychan. Black Rock Sands is near Snowdonia mountain range making it the perfect backdrop for paddle boarders. The name Black Rock Sands comes from the area West of the beach famous for its caves, rock pools, and headland rock.

Why is it a great place to visit?

  • Drive on beach
  • Sand dunes
  • Vast marine life
  • Seafront facilities
  • Site of Special Scientific Interest

Why is it a great place for stand up paddlers?

Black Rock Sands is a great place for experienced paddle boarders. It has an exposed break-point and a consistent surf making it an ideal location for those wanting to catch some waves.

Most of the swell here is caused by groundswells. Paddlers may also choose to join on to the estuary to head inland where they can find Wales’ Little Italy, Portmeirion.

Portmeirion is a beautiful village perfect to grab a bite to eat before making your way back down the river to Black Rock Sands.

 

Strangford Lough, County Down, Northern Ireland

Strangford Lough, County Down, Northern Ireland
“Bar Hall Bay, Strangford Lough – geograph.org.uk” by Dave Dunford

Location and History

Strangford Lough is a large sea loch found in the East of Northern Island. Just outside of Belfast. The bio-diverse area is home to varying wildlife and picturesque landscapes. Due to its rich array of wildlife. The Lough has been a popular fishing site for many years even dating back to as early as 7000BC.

Why is it a great place to visit?

  • Paddle board hire
  • Calm waters
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
  • Area of Special Scientific Interest

Why is it a great place for stand up paddlers?

Strangford Lough is home to over 70 islands and many islets, bays, coves, headlands, and mudflats. Paddle boarding around natures maze is the UK’s largest inlet. Unlimited exploration potential makes Strangford Lough the perfect location for paddlers who have a lot of time to spare.

If you can, spend a few days here exploring the many magical sites the Lough has to offer. Strangford Lough is known for its calm waters making it a great place for beginner paddle boarders.

Did We Miss a Great Location in the United Kingdom (UK)?

Let us know in the comments some locations you like to paddle board in the UK.

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