General Paddling | Discover more about paddling in general

The Value of British Canoeing Membership

08/08/202309/08/2023 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. Member Hub and Exclusive Benefits Your British Canoeing membership offers you great discounts both on and off the water! With discounts…

Top 5 Place to Paddle in the East of England

01/08/202309/08/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

The east of England is a hotspot for paddling adventures. With a huge range of waterways and coastlines open to paddle on, you are sure to find a route perfect for you. To make sure we highlight the crème de la crème of routes in the area, we enlisted the…

pair of women paddling on paddleboards together

Carers or Companions British Canoeing Membership

14/07/202318/07/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

British Canoeing is committed to making paddling accessible for everyone, regardless of their identity, background or circumstances. Should you need a carer or companion to accompany you when you go paddling we don’t want British Canoeing membership requirements to pose a barrier. British Canoeing has looked to create a solution…

Avoiding Paddling in Offshore Winds

13/07/202309/09/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

As the weather is warming up, more people are heading to the coast for some time on the UK’s sandy beaches and fun on the water. The diverse seas, inlets and estuaries that surround the UK allows for all different kinds of fun. From kayaking coastlines, to playing with friends…

kayaks and sups on the water with the title #paddlesafely

Water Safety

27/06/202320/09/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

The water is an amazing place to be, and draws us to it all year round. And year on year, more people are enticed into the world of paddling as a way to enjoy the water. But whether you are enjoying a summer paddle, or taking advantage of a crisp winter…

10 reasons why paddling is good for your mental health

09/05/202310/05/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

We know we keep harping on about how good paddling is for your mental health, but really, it is great! If you need more convincing though, we've made a list of 10 reasons why paddling is great for everything from busting bad moods to helping improve more serious issues such…

Weir Safety | A beginners guide to weirs

27/04/202328/04/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

You’ll find weirs on many rivers up and down the country, but what are they? And why do you need to know about them? Welcome to our beginners guide to weirs and weir safety. Well, whilst they can be really exciting to shoot (paddle down), they can also be powerful…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Transporting your kayak, canoe, and paddleboard

13/05/202201/02/2023 by jamesibbotson

jamesibbotson

Now you have yourself a lovely new kayak, canoe, or paddleboard it’s time to get it out on the water. But how do you take it from your home to the river, lake, sea? Unless you are one of the very lucky ones, you are going to have to drive…

Where can I learn to kayak near me?

08/04/202223/05/2022 by charlottepattinson

charlottepattinson

If you’re thinking of starting out in paddling you’re bound to wonder where you can learn to kayak. Kayaking beginner courses are the perfect way to build skills and knowledge, allowing you to feel confident on your kayak adventures. You’ll be glad to hear there are lots of options for…

Family Kayaking Holidays in the UK

16/03/202227/02/2023 by charlottepattinson

charlottepattinson

We know planning a family kayaking holiday in the UK can send you down a rabbit hole of options. So to save you hours of research we have brought together all you need to know about the different types of family kayaking holidays, as well as the best places to…

River Weaver in West Cheshire on a summer's day looking across to the bridge

Top 6 places to paddle in Cheshire and the North West

24/02/202226/05/2022 by charlottepattinson

charlottepattinson

Are you looking for new places to paddle as the weather warms up? To help you get back on the water we have put together our top six places to paddle in Cheshire and the North West. From historic canals to picturesque countryside views, there is something for everyone. Whether…

Spring Padding: 5 places to get in the water

17/02/202225/05/2022 by charlottepattinson

charlottepattinson

We know paddling all year round isn't for everyone, but if you're feeling like you need a little nudge to get back on the water, we've got just the thing with our spring paddling trails. Now that the weather is warming up and the days are getting longer, why not…

Stay healthy paddling through winter | For physical and mental wellbeing

05/01/202210/01/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

With dark evenings and limited daylight to contend with, it's easy to neglect exercise during the winter months. We know paddling makes us feel great when we get to the place, but getting there sometimes can be a struggle. Cold, wet, frosty, post-paddle ice on the kit. It's easy to…

Stay Safe On The Water

09/11/202103/03/2023 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

Welcome to Go Paddling’s Stay Safe On The Water. We want everyone to enjoy paddling whether on holiday, day adventures or weekends out. And so, for those of you new to paddling, here are ten simple things you can do to stay safe… Always wear your buoyancy aid or personal…

Winter paddling clothing: What to wear for paddling in winter

08/11/202108/11/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

So you've decided to paddle through winter. Excellent news! Not only will you be privy to some different wildlife, especially as our resident summer birds migrate to southern climes, some epic frosts and beautiful paddles throughout the winter will be a real treat. It really is worth braving the cold…

Winter paddling. Top 10 tips for paddling in winter

Winter paddling: Top 10 tips for paddling during Winter

08/11/202108/11/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Winter paddling can look uninviting to say the least. Cold weather, rain, snow, early nights and limited daylight in general. We're not selling it to you right.... But paddling through winter can be absolutely beautiful and very rewarding. You just need to consider a few more things before you head…

Top spots for canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding in the South West

20/08/202103/09/2021 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

It’s easy to see why kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding in the South West is very popular. Throughout the counties of Bristol, Cornwall, Dorset, Devon, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire there's a large array of winding rivers, lakes and coastal bays to explore. To help guide you to where to paddle…

Windermere landscape photo- Lake District - one of our top five lakes to paddle board

5 top lakes to paddle board, kayak or canoe in the Lake District

03/08/202119/11/2021 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

Five top lakes to paddle board. If you are looking for where you can canoe, kayak or paddle board (SUP) in the Lake District National Park, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together this handy guide covering 5 lakes that will be perfect for your summer paddling…

Inspired to try canoeing or kayaking by our Olympians?

30/07/202109/08/2021 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

You saw our Canoe Slalom and Sprint Olympians at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and now they've inspired you to have a go at canoeing or kayaking. Here are three ways you can get involved: 1. Find and join a club! Joining a local paddling club is a brilliant way…

Top places in Kent to canoe, kayak and paddleboard

27/07/202106/05/2022 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

To help you find places to canoe, kayak and paddleboard in Kent we’ve put this list of top places that everyone can explore. Each location celebrates the history, wildlife and beautiful scenery Kent has to offer. You'll easily discover why the county is known for being the Garden of England.…

3 great launch points in London for inflatable SUPs and Kayaks

16/06/202116/03/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Looking for launch points in London? You've come to the right place! With the portability of inflatable stand up paddle boards and kayaks along with London’s vast transport network there has never been a more accessible time to experience London. And it gives you a totally unique perspective! To help…

Should I wear a buoyancy aid when stand up paddle boarding?

20/04/202130/08/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

It’s a question we get asked all the time - should I wear a buoyancy aid when stand up paddle boarding? And the answer is, probably yes, BUT, read the below guidance first to choose which one will be most suitable for the type of paddling you do. Recently, British…

Juggling Parenting and Paddling: A New Mum’s Guide to Paddling

25/03/202113/09/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Paddling as we know isn’t just a fantastic way to keep fit. It also has huge benefits to your mental wellbeing. It's a great opportunity to socialise while staying socially distanced, and a way to meet new friends too. All these things as a new parent are important to your…

6 useful paddling apps to download to your phone NOW!

16/02/202129/06/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Technology can be both good and bad at the same time, we're sure you'd agree. But when it comes to safety and keeping yourself up to scratch on what's going on, you can't beat a bit of technology! It is even one of the bits of kit we advise you…

Access, rivers and places to paddle | What’s the deal?

22/12/202026/07/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

So you've bought a new boat and you’re super keen to get out and find places to paddle. But where to get on the water? Where to go on that maiden voyage? There is a good chance you live near a river, canal, or maybe a lake? There are 59,000km…

Paddling books top picks: what to read off the water

02/12/202010/05/2021 by Rebecca

Rebecca

We recognise that getting out on the water when the weather is well, cold, damp and windy, isn't to everyone's taste. However, just because you're not physically paddling, doesn't mean you can't expand your paddling knowledge, research adventures, or learn about the tides for example! With so many different routes…

Autumn Paddle Adventures | Top 5 scenic places to paddle

27/10/202002/09/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

In autumn, the different weather and water conditions make for an entirely new paddling experience than you’d get in the calmer spring and summer months. Plus, the landscape is starting to change colour which gives us incredible scenery and photos. So with that, here's a guide to our top autumn…

How to clean your kayak, canoe and SUP to stop the spread of invasive species

02/09/202019/04/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

About 2,000 plants and animals have been introduced, often accidentally, to the UK from all over the world. Many are harmless, but some species have had a detrimental impact on our native species as well as our own health and the activities we enjoy. These invasive non-native species not only…

Things to look out for when buying your first inflatable kayak

24/08/202026/07/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Thinking about buying your first inflatable kayak? You’ll notice there’s quite a few on the market with varying price ranges and quality assurances too. This really simple, quick guide is designed to give you an overview of the three main types of inflatable kayaks and some things to consider when…

Paddling holidays in England and staycation inspiration

02/07/202024/01/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

With more and more people considering the idea of a staycation, the choice of where to go can be overwhelming. The idea of going to packed out beaches and popular seaside towns can be nerve-wracking. So to help you wade through the information of where on earth to go on…

10 ways to #sharethespace and paddle responsibly

05/06/202003/05/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

We know that going for a paddle is fun that's why we do it! But you also need to paddle responsibly. Part of being outdoors and in nature is about sharing the space. Not just with fellow humans and boats, but also with our native wildlife too. It's easy to…

The river licence explained

13/05/202025/08/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

If you’ve recently started paddling, the advice around where you can paddle and what you can do can be stifling. Different waterways are effectively managed by different bodies which can cause a bit of a headache, especially when you only want to put your boat on the water and go…

Kayak vs Canoe: which should I buy?

08/05/202019/04/2021 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Canoe vs Kayak. The big question. Canoes and kayaks are two great ways to get on the water for an adventure. But of the two, canoe vs kayak, which one is best for you? Canoeing and kayaking, despite always being lumped together, are actually two different activities. You can find…

Top 10 paddling films to watch during lockdown

29/04/2020 by Rebecca

Rebecca

We know you're all itching to get back on the water, and we are too. But until the day comes when we can paddle the lovely canals, rivers, seas and lakes once more, we thought we'd give you some film inspiration to keep you going! Below are our top 10…

4 paddling related things to do in lockdown

03/04/202010/11/2020 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Not being able to get out on the water at the moment might be tough. But that doesn't mean you can't use your time wisely to help you learn, gather skills and knowledge, and keep connected with your paddling buddies. For ideas on what to do if you're twiddling your…

Packrafting: what it is and how to do it

17/01/202019/04/2021 by Rebecca

Rebecca

You might have heard the word 'packrafting' banded about your circle of friends. Or even read about it in a recent article. Packrafting is not exactly the new kid on the block, but it is making a big impact on the adventure and outdoor travel world at the moment. And…

#DustOffYourInflatable – Paddling an inflatable kayak, canoe or SUP

16/12/201921/02/2023 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Are you guilty of inflatable craft neglect? Did you buy an inflatable kayak, canoe or SUP months ago? Has it been sat in your attic or garage ever since? Paddling an inflatable can be a great way to get on the water and connect with nature! And inflatables are born…

River gradings and what they mean

15/10/201902/02/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

River gradings. You might have noticed when you look for a Paddle Trail or PaddlePoint or look up your local river, there is usually a 'grade' comment next to it. These range from grade 1 to grade 6 and have significant meanings when it comes to paddling those rivers. You…

Nine health benefits of paddling

19/08/201920/05/2021 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

There is no denying that paddling, such as kayaking, canoeing, and SUP, is good for you. The health benefits of paddling include releasing the stresses of the week, or working your heart a little without overdoing it. There are many reasons paddling is good you for, but here are our…

Paddling when pregnant – what you need to know

02/08/201910/05/2021 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Can you go paddling when pregnant? It’s a difficult question to answer, and everyone will have a different opinion depending on who they are, what they do, and their level of paddling experience. The general answer is, yes, paddling when pregnant is safe. But as with everything during those nine…

4 simple ways to make paddling more sociable

21/05/201917/05/2021 by Rebecca

Rebecca

We've said it before and we'll say it again. Paddling is much more fun when you have some paddle buddies to hit the water with. If you're struggling for ideas on how to make paddling more sociable, fear not! We've put together a list of 4 ways that will help…

How to organise a river clean up with your friends

02/05/201924/05/2021 by Rebecca

Rebecca

You can't get away from all the talk about plastic pollution in the news right now. From mainstream to social media, there is a lot of noise around plastics in our waterways and how this affects our eco-system and beyond. One way you can do your bit for the environment…

preparing for the three lakes challenge. Tips from those who have done it.

Easy tips for preparing for the Three Lakes Challenge

30/04/201902/05/2019 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Preparing for the Three Lakes Challenge is vital. It may be one of the original Go Paddling challenges, but that doesn't mean it's the easiest, definitely not! If you're looking for something to push your limits, completing the challenge could be perfect for a whole host of reasons! But preparing…

6 things to consider when planning a paddle adventure

15/04/201913/07/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Whether you've been out paddling before or you're brand new, it's always good to have a refresher on planning for an adventure! So to help, we've put together our top 6 things to consider when planning a paddle adventure! Take a look, absorb and get planning your paddle! Canoe, kayak…

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