Paddleboarding has become a popular outdoor activity in the UK, offering a peaceful and scenic way to explore the country’s waterways. Among the best places to practice and enjoy paddleboarding are the UK’s canals, which wind through picturesque towns, vibrant cities, and idyllic countryside. Whether you’re a seasoned paddleboarder or a beginner, these canals provide smooth waters and stunning views to make your experience unforgettable. Here are some of the best canals to paddleboard on in the UK.
1. Regent’s Canal, London
London may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of paddleboarding, but Regent’s Canal is a hidden gem for paddleboarders. This 13.8 kilometre long canal runs from Little Venice to Limehouse Basin, offering views of the city’s famous landmarks such as the London Zoo, Camden Market, and Islington’s historic architecture. The canal’s calm waters, combined with its urban charm, make it a unique and exciting place to paddleboard. Paddleboarding along this route allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of London while enjoying a peaceful escape on the water.
2. Leeds & Liverpool Canal, West Yorkshire
The Leeds & Liverpool Canal stretches 127 miles across the northern parts of England, connecting two of the country’s most important cities. This canal is known for its flat, calm waters, perfect for paddleboarding. The section that runs through West Yorkshire is especially scenic, with lush greenery and beautiful countryside providing a stunning backdrop. Whether you’re paddling near the historic city of Leeds or through the quieter, rural areas of Yorkshire, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal offers a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
3. Oxford Canal, Oxfordshire
The Oxford Canal is one of the most serene and picturesque waterways in the UK. Running for 77 miles from Oxford to Coventry, this canal offers crystal clear waters and lush surroundings, making it an ideal spot for paddleboarding. One of the most popular stretches for paddleboarders is around Oxford itself, where the canal meanders through tranquil countryside, past historic villages, and alongside Oxford’s iconic university buildings. The calm waters and peaceful atmosphere make this an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders.
4. Kennet & Avon Canal, Wiltshire
The Kennet & Avon Canal, which runs from the River Thames at Reading to the Bristol Channel, is a popular destination for paddleboarding in the UK. The canal’s 87 miles of water pass through scenic rural landscapes, charming villages, and historical landmarks. Paddleboarding on the Kennet & Avon allows you to glide through locks, swing bridges, and even tunnels, offering a variety of challenges and experiences along the way. The section near Bath is particularly stunning, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and Georgian architecture.
5. Grand Union Canal, Buckinghamshire
The Grand Union Canal is one of the longest and most popular canals in the UK, stretching over 137 miles from London to Birmingham. It offers several accessible and beautiful spots for paddleboarding, particularly in the more rural sections, where the water is calm and the views are spectacular. The section around Buckinghamshire, with its lush countryside and historic towns, provides a peaceful setting for a day on the water. Paddling along this canal offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of southern England while escaping the bustle of urban life.
6. Forth & Clyde Canal, Scotland
For those looking to paddleboard in Scotland, the Forth & Clyde Canal is a fantastic option. This 35-mile canal runs from the River Clyde in Glasgow to the River Forth, passing through stunning landscapes, including the iconic Falkirk Wheel. The canal’s relatively quiet waters and scenic surroundings make it ideal for paddleboarding, offering views of Scotland’s rugged countryside, lochs, and hills. The section around the Falkirk Wheel is particularly popular, as paddlers can enjoy the sight of the canal’s famous rotating boat lift while gliding across the water.
7. Shropshire Union Canal, West Midlands
The Shropshire Union Canal offers some of the best paddleboarding opportunities in the West Midlands, with over 60 miles of picturesque waterways winding through beautiful rural landscapes. Starting in Wolverhampton and ending in Nantwich, this canal offers a tranquil paddle through wooded areas, open fields, and charming villages. The water is calm, and the surrounding countryside is stunning, making it a perfect place for both short paddles and longer journeys. The section around Audlem, with its peaceful atmosphere and lovely scenery, is especially popular.
8. Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, South Wales
For paddleboarders who enjoy exploring more remote and less crowded areas, the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal in South Wales is an excellent choice. Running for 35 miles through the Brecon Beacons National Park, this canal offers stunning mountain views, lush woodlands, and wildlife sightings. The water is typically calm and clear, making it perfect for paddleboarding. Paddleboarding along the canal provides a unique opportunity to enjoy Wales’ natural beauty, from rolling hills to tranquil lakes.
9. Norfolk Broads, Norfolk
While not a traditional canal, the Norfolk Broads is a network of rivers and lakes that is ideal for paddleboarding. The Broads are known for their calm, wide waters, perfect for beginners and those seeking a relaxing experience. The expansive landscape offers a range of different environments to explore, from reed-lined banks to open water where you can spot an abundance of wildlife. Paddleboarding on the Norfolk Broads allows you to discover picturesque villages, historic sites, and expansive natural beauty all in one journey.
Conclusion
The UK is home to a rich network of canals, offering paddleboarders a wide range of options to explore. Whether you prefer city views, tranquil countryside, or historic landmarks, there’s a canal that will suit your interests and experience level. From the hustle and bustle of London’s Regent’s Canal to the serene landscapes of the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, paddleboarding through the UK’s canals provides an unforgettable way to connect with nature and see the country from a new perspective.
Remember, canals are managed waterways, meaning you will need a license to access them. You can buy these individually, or get one that covers over 4500km of waterways with a Paddle UK membership. A portion of the money raised from these goes back into the management of the waterways, while some goes towards environment and access campaigning, community projects, and much more.