Tips and Advice | General guidance to help you get into paddling

old row boats pulled up on a pebble beach in a old town harbour

How To Paddle In Harbours

23/03/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Dotted all around Britain's coastline are harbours, tucked away to shelter boats from the sea’s conditions. From tiny historic harbours to huge modern ones, they come in all shapes and sizes with different surroundings. For example, some may make use of cliffs and naturally occurring shelter, whereas others are man-made…

a man and two children enjoying time in an inflatable kayak

Paddling as a Family

14/03/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Paddling is the perfect activity for everyone in the family to enjoy together. Age and ability really don’t matter as everyone can take it at their own pace and it’s always possible to choose a trip everyone will enjoy. Spending time bonding as a family, whilst discovering a new world…

Developing Your Paddling Skills

08/03/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

When starting your paddlesport journey, no matter what craft you use, there are a range of courses on offer to support the development of your skills. The following courses are open to all ages and great for individuals, families and groups wanting to develop their paddling skills. Paddle Start Award…

group of people listening to an instructor in full safety kit

Courses You Can Take To Be Safer on the Water

01/03/202303/03/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Safety is a really important part of paddling, and it doesn't matter if you are new to thew sport or have been doing it for years. If you know you are safe on the water then you can have a great time. But what can you do to be as…

Woman on a paddle board with paddle above her head and big smile

Why more women are choosing paddling

27/02/202307/03/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Paddling is a great activity for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a white water adrenaline rush, a chilled glide through nature or anything in between, the water is your space. If you’re a woman looking to get into stand up paddleboarding, canoeing or kayaking or a current paddler wanting signposting…

Signs Of Early Spring

20/02/202321/02/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

With spring right around the corner, you may start to see the first signs of it. From the water you get the opportunity to see plants, birds, and other wildlife up close and personal. With this view you may be able to spot the tiny changes that start to happen…

What to do if you lose some kit

14/02/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

We never plan on losing anything, but sometimes it happens. This is especially sad when it is your much loved paddling kit. From leaving shoes in car parks to kayaks floating away on the tide. Whenever we lose anything it sucks. But what can you do to try and get…

Two people talking together next to their paddle boards

Why paddling makes the perfect date

06/02/202307/02/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

When thinking of date ideas, so many things spring to mind. Cinema, food, romantic walk… paddling? It isn’t the first thing that you may think of, but it is a brilliant activity to take your date on. Here are a couple of reasons why paddling makes the perfect date. You…

What to consider when planning a family paddling holiday!

22/01/202324/01/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

A family paddling holiday is a fabulous way to explore new places away from the crowds. Being away from all the noise you will find the space to talk and bond as a family, whilst being able to experience nature through your children’s eyes. To help you plan a magical…

The Value of British Canoeing Membership

17/01/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

British Canoeing membership doesn’t just fund waterways licences. We’d like to share with you some of the other ways membership money benefits paddlers and the wonderful waterways you paddle. Stronger Together Fund In December 2022 British Canoeing launched the Stronger Together Fund, a way of distributing funding to benefit paddling…

person on a kayak with blue skies and blue water

Planning Paddling Holidays Abroad

12/01/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

The UK is full of amazing places to go on a paddling holiday. From ancient coastlines to picturesque lakes. However, it is always nice to get abroad at times, find some new paddling spots, and soak up some sun. Making plans to go paddling in a foreign country can be…

a group of sup racers sprinting from the beach into the sea

Have You Heard About SUP Racing?

04/01/202311/01/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is still on the increase after a huge surge over the last couple of years. Leisure paddling leads the way for most paddlers, but did you know there is a strong SUP racing scene in the UK and indeed worldwide? The GBSUP National Series was set…

wooden pier spanning out into a wintery coniston water

Top 5 places to Stay and Paddle this Winter

19/12/202202/02/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

As the days are slowly starting to get longer and the first signs of spring will soon be on the horizon, the water is a very special place to be. And just because it’s winter doesn’t mean we don’t want to get away for a weekend or a week. So…

two women paddle boarding on a lake with some hills in the background

Top 10 Common Paddle Boarding Mistakes

12/12/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Paddle boarding is great. You can rock up almost anywhere, pump your board up and get on the water. This is what has led to the recent boom in popularity. Also how simple it is to get going. But with this simplicity also comes room for mistakes. So here we…

a man paddle boarding on a calm river wrapped up in a wooly hat and gloves

What to Wear Paddle Boarding in Winter

05/12/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

With winter quickly setting in, paddling is getting colder. But with winter also comes a change in the scenery, a new set of animals out to see, and more adventures to have. However, there are a few more considerations you need to make before setting out on a winter paddle.…

20 gifts for paddlers under £20 | Stocking fillers for paddlers

01/12/202205/12/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

As Christmas fast approaches, and with many people on a budget this year, we thought it might be a good time to look at the less expensive side of our sport. If you’re looking for paddles or boats, you won’t find them in this article! However, there are plenty of…

What to Do if You Find Something Unexpected During Your Paddle

25/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

We all love being out on the water, even as the weather gets colder. The morning mist, afternoon downpours, and everything in between makes our sport magical at times. While paddling all you would expect to see is some wildlife, calm water, and cheery people sharing the water with you.…

a water levelmeasure attached to a wall with water coming up it

What Rising River Levels Means for Paddlers

17/11/202217/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Living in Britain we have a very common feature in our weather……. Rain! We get it all year round, from the odd shower to torrential downpours. Through autumn and winter we see the most of this rain, but spring and summer are rarely dry. With the rain comes an increase…

an aerial view of a lake in the lake district with snowy mountains in the background

Paddling in the National Parks

16/11/202222/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

A total of 15 national parks dot the UK, protecting the environment for the enjoyment of all. Scattered around each park are popular tourist destinations, with each place offering unique attractions. Some of these places are home to amazing lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and canals that all share some amazing views.…

Paddling Near Shipping Lanes

11/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

It is easy to get lost in the beauty of paddling when our on your paddle board or in you kayak. However, you do need to keep your eye out on what is going on around you. Our waterways have a huge range of users, used for a huge range…

kayaker stretching arms out in fron tof them to warm up

Warm Up for Paddling This Winter

08/11/202217/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

With the temperatures dropping to winter levels, the need to warm up your body ready for a paddle is more important than usual. Climbing into your extra layers may seem like a warm up, but there is more to a warm up than this. It is your body’s chance to…

group walking into the sea with paddle boards ready to paddle

How to Paddle on the Sea

03/11/202222/02/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

The UK is an island, meaning we are lucky enough to have over 31,000km of coastlines. And to us, that sounds like 31,000km of potential paddling on the sea! The coast is a very popular destination for staycations and day trips. So why not take your kayak, canoe, or paddle…

How to Paddle on Lakes

27/10/202208/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Lakes, lochs, loughs, and llyns are all large bodies of water that offer some scenic paddling for everyone to enjoy. The water is calm and there is land the whole way around them, making them relatively safe for paddling. But there are still things you need to consider before you…

group of paddle boards paddling down a calm river

How to Paddle on Rivers

24/10/202227/10/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

There are around 1500 rivers in the UK, covering over 200,000km. So it only makes sense that you should waterways be take advantage of and utilized for paddling. No matter where you are paddling on these rivers, there are a few basic rules and nuggets of advise that are worth…

5 ways to enjoy paddling this Halloween

20/10/202220/10/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

So the weather is turning and the leaves are beginning to fall from the trees. And that means one thing.... Halloween is just around the corner! Whilst it's now customary to hit up your local pumpkin patch and enjoy a Halloween film night, we've got some paddle-related activities for you…

The Paddlers’ Code

18/10/202220/10/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

The Paddlers’ Code has been created to help guide paddlers into best practice and give easy guidelines to follow when out on the water. The code follows three basic principles: respect, protect, and enjoy. Inspired by the Countryside Code, The Paddlers’ Code looks to give clear and concise direction for…

two people paddling up a canal in kayaks

How to Paddle on Canals

13/10/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Canals are possibly the most accessible body of water that most people can reach. The canal system spans over 2000 miles across Britain, passing through cities, towns, and country villages. Canals are available for a range of crafts to use, from paddle boards to canal boats, so there are a…

group of paddle boarders on a calm body of water with a blue sky above

Mindfulness in Paddling

10/10/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Let's start with a very basic question, what is mindfulness? Mindfulness is having an awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment in the present moment. So how can this be achieved while paddling? Take a read below about mindfulness in paddling. Thoughts Allow your thoughts to turn…

How to use PaddlePoints

03/10/202202/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

PaddlePoints is a brilliant tool to help you find new places to paddle and share your favorite places with others. Heading away for a holiday and fancy a paddle, check PaddlePoints. Fancy seeing your city from the water, check PaddlePoints. Want to find out if there is a pub or…

man getting changed into kit ready to paddle

Keeping Your Kit Clean

28/09/202230/09/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Looking after your gear is key to making it last and perform how it should. Making sure it is all washed, cleaned, and dried properly is at the centre of looking after your kit. But all know that sometimes accidents happen and you forget to fully clean it, you haven't…

pair of people paddle boarding in autumnal setting

What to Wear Paddling in the Autumn

26/09/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

As we move through the month of September, the days are getting shorter and the temperature is starting to drop. But this shouldn’t mean that you pack away your kayak, canoe or paddle board. We have lots of great autumn paddles and make the most of the changing scenery. As…

group of people mixed ages paddling together in the sun

How Can Paddling Help Keep You Fit?

21/09/202221/09/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Getting on the water on your paddle board or in your kayak and canoe is brilliant. Not only is it a great way to explore new places, it is also great to look after your physical and mental health. We are constantly being told how important it is to look…

A muslim woman kayaking in appropriate head dress

Considerations for Muslim Paddlers

12/09/202227/09/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Paddlesports are one of the fastest growing types of sports in the UK. Part of this growth is down to the accessibility of kit and clubs that can take people out. With this growth the sport is reaching a number of different communities. As the diversity in our sport grows…

Top 5 Places to Paddle in Autumn

05/09/202201/11/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

As September rolls in, so does the much loved season of autumn. Autumn is full of colourful leaves, pumpkin spiced lattes, and shorter evenings. All of these can make for some paddles that have stunning scenery, amazing sunsets, and tasty post-paddle treats. There are lots of amazing places to paddle…

a group of new paddler look on as a coach explains some basic skills

Paddling Safety Courses for New Paddlers

23/08/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Hopefully you have seen that British Canoeing run a whole range of paddling safety courses through their delivery partners. From Paddleboarding technique to whitewater rafting, there are courses for almost everything. But when starting your paddling journey, no matter what craft you use, safety is always an important element to…

Paddling in Low Water Levels

16/08/202218/08/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

It’s time to crack out your best rain dance and hope the rivers, lakes, and reservoirs start to fill back up. There are a number of issues with the distinct lack of water at the minute, from environmental problems, less water to play on, and potential health impacts. It is…

The Benefits of a Physical Paddlesports Retailer

04/08/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

In a world where shopping is moving online, our beloved paddlesport retailer shops are still as important as ever. We caught up with Sam Wilson at Kent canoes to find out why exactly paddlesport retailers are so important when it comes to buying your paddling kit. Over to the expert....…

Places to Paddle in the North West

29/07/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

The North West of England is home to some truly unique coastlines and stunning lakes. With so many places to paddle in the North West, we have pulled together just a couple of our highlights. With coastlines, the Lake District, Cumbria, and a few cities too, there is a huge…

What should I wear on the water?

27/07/202230/08/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Getting out on the water on a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak is a brilliant way to spend your free time. However, you need to be dressed appropriately to get the most out of your time on the water. Wearing the wrong clothes may well lead to you getting cold quickly…

How to Protect your Inflatable in the Heat

20/07/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

With the weather warm, the sun coming out, and longer days, getting out on the water on your inflatable craft is looking more and more appealing. Inflatable paddleboards and kayaks are brilliantly convenient. They fit in your car, pump up quickly, and are great family fun on the water. To…

Buying your first PFD

19/07/202230/08/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

No matter what type of paddling you are doing, and on what type of craft, your personal floatation device (PFD) is one of the most important bits of safety kit you will carry. Even if you are attached to an inflatable paddleboard, you still need to be wearing some form…

Paddling in a thunderstorm: top tips for staying safe if you get caught out

13/07/202220/07/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

We’d never recommend going paddling in a thunderstorm. If the weather looks like it’s going to be stormy, just hang up your paddles and go another day. However, as we know the weather can catch you out by surprise and the weather forecasts aren’t always 100% accurate. So, if you…

Paddling safely in the summer

12/07/202215/07/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

As summer is rolling and warming up we all look for ways to cool down and fun things to do in the sun. When the sun is out it is the perfect time to get on the water on your paddleboard or in your kayak and cool down. But it…

Your Paddle Challenge Checklist

05/07/202205/07/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

The summer is a perfect time to take on a paddling challenge as the days are getting longer, and the weather warmer. Challenging yourself to a distance, time, or number of laps paddled is a great way for you to raise some money for amazing charities. However, it is not…

Top 8 paddle trails in the UK

23/06/202230/09/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

New for 2022, when you take out a British Canoeing membership not only do you get a waterways license that opens up access to over 4500km of water, but you will also get a map with our top 8 paddle trails on. Spanning across the length of England, these trails…

SUP Safer

20/06/202221/12/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

If you’re a new or novice stand up paddleboarder and want to raise your safety awareness and personal safely, then the SUP Safer course is for you! It’ll help you develop a better understanding of how to be safe when on the water. During this award, your instructor will work…

Taking your mobile paddling

20/06/202205/07/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

No matter where you are paddling, there is always a list of safety kit you should take with you. From a simple buoyancy aid to satellite radios, what you need is always going to be different based on your location. However, one simple bit of kit you should always have…

Places to Paddle in Surrey and Berkshire

09/06/202214/06/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Surrey may be the most densely wooded county in England but it’s also home to plenty of interesting waterways to explore. So here we have accumulated a list of our top places to paddle in Surrey and Berkshire. River Wey In 1635 Sir Richard Weston, who spent some of his…

Kayak, Canoe or Paddleboard?

25/05/202225/05/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

With summer just around the corner, paddlesports are on the rise. However, which craft to use still confuses some people. Each one has their benefits and limitations which are important to understand, especially when it comes to making the most out of your time on the water. So here we have…

Top 5 Places to Paddle in Suffolk and Essex

24/05/202208/09/2022 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Planning to watch the sunrise in Suffolk, home to the most easterly point in the UK, before heading off for a paddle on one of its inviting rivers? Or, looking to spend time in Essex, home to the first capital city of England (Colchester in case you’re wondering)? You will…

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