If you are looking for a fun way to learn to paddle then you need a Start, Discover, or Explore course. If you are a beginner try for your Start Award. After the Start Award take it further by gaining your Discover Award. Then, if you want to start to get serious…
Paddling centres offer a range of exciting paddling experiences for beginners and refreshers. These can be anything from taster sessions to guided tours on a range of paddling craft. What is a paddling centre? They are larger organisation focusing on paddling or outskills and experiences generally. They are a good…
On this page you will find UK-wide clubs and providers that offer dedicated support for paddlers with a disability. This includes those signing up to the English British Canoeing initiative Paddle-Ability, designed to improve paddling services for people with a disability. How can I be sure the provider is competent?…
Canoeing is a term that has been used for thousands of years, but today when we think of a canoe it’s usually a recreational craft somewhere between 14 and 17 feet long with an open space to paddle from and carry equipment. But there’s a little more to it than…
Covering all the basics you need, our basic foolproof kayaking for beginners list will have you out on the water in no time! Let's start at the beginning shall we... What is a kayak? Unlike canoes, in a kayak you sit down and paddle with your legs stretched infront of…
It can be a daunting getting started in a new hobby, but trying paddling is as easy as 1,2,3. Want to get into paddling (and stay into it)? We've made a quick list of things to consider before you get started... GET into paddling... Choose the craft that’s right for…
Sea kayaking is a fantastic way for you to see the coastline from a new perspective. Spot seals and sea birds whilst taking in stunning views in this wild environment. We know you're bursting to get started, so we've put together 5 top tips to get you from landlubber to…
WHY THE LOCH AWE CHALLENGE? Part of the Three Lakes Challenge Find out more Loch Awe is the longest freshwater loch in Scotland. It is located in the Argyll and Bute region of West Scotland. Its shoreline stretches to within a few miles of the sea. In our opinion, the…
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…
The Leicester Arm of the Grand Union Canal is one of the longer arms or branches of the canal. The river Soar flows into the Leicester Arm just above the city of Leicester. The canal then continues through the very heart of the city, flowing through sprawling countryside with a…
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…
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…
Stand up paddleboarding isn't just for idyllic, weeping willow draped rivers in the countryside. Most cities have really accessible canal networks that are just waiting to be discovered. And, they're actually prettier than you'd think! City adventures while stand up paddleboarding are not to be sniffed at! When most people…
Places in England to pitch up and paddle... now that's a tongue twister for you! Looking for somewhere to see out the summer? To help you find your perfect paddling staycation, we’ve compiled a list of top Caravan and Motorhome Club campsites across England where you can pitch up and…
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…
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…
Surrounded by the hills of Snowdonia, Lake Bala, or Llyn Tegid in Welsh, is the largest lake in Wales. The lake makes up part of Three Lakes Challenge, which also includes Loch Awe in Scotland and Windermere in England. Situated to the south west of the small town of Bala,…
At 25 miles in length, Loch Awe is the longest freshwater loch in Scotland. With a width of .6 of a mile and set in a rugged, remote west coast landscape it is an awe-inspiring paddle. With a average depth of 105 feet - rising to 307 feet at its…
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…
What do you know about cold water shock? Likelihood is very little, or maybe you just think about losing your breath when you are suddenly faced with a bucket of ice water. But the consequences of cold water shock can be deadly. It’s really important you know a little about…
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…
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…
Canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are fantastic ways to explore our breathtaking coastline but did you know that the UK is home to both grey seals and common seals? These much-loved marine mammals are a real treat to spot on your paddling adventures, but sadly they are facing an extensive…
Wearing a pair of gloves for canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding is something all paddlers should consider, especially throughout the autumn and winter months. Here are five reasons why we would recommend you think about wearing gloves when paddling: Keep your hands warm and dry, especially throughout the colder months.…
When stand up paddle boarding it is really important to take extra care in and around shallow water to avoid injuring yourself. Whilst exploring there will be times you come across shallow water, rather than attempting to remain standing, we strongly recommend kneeling down until the water becomes deep enough…
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…
If we told you that Hampshire is the main producer of watercress for the whole country, you’d probably be able to deduce that there’s plenty of water there too! If you pop across the county border to West Sussex and you’ll be met with some fantastic waterways filled with historic…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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 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…
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…
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…
Despite the devastation of being unable to walk following a cycling accident, 35 years ago, Will Behenna was determined not to let it affect his love of the outdoors. “I was always into outdoor stuff,” said Dorset-based paddler Will Behenna. “So I just kind of carried on.” This conviction has…
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…
Chris Nadollek is a whitewater paddler and wheelchair user from Nottingham who has been paddling at Holme Pierrepont Canoe Club since 2021. We caught up with Chris, club coach Andy Steel, and club Chair Dawn Scott, to find out more about his journey with the club and how the club…
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…
I returned to the UK after 14 years abroad, as a single parent of two young girls ready to restart life and build up my yoga students all over again. Joining the local canoe club was not only affordable but it was my saving grace. Once I found a babysitter…
Paddling is quite a social activity. It brings people together to enjoy the water, support each other, and keep each other safe. It’s one of the best things about paddling. And even if you set off on your own, chances are you’ll meet some like minded people along the way.…
Coniston lake is the third largest lake in the Lake District, and is surrounded by lots of the beauties of the national park. So Myself, Kerry, David, and Tamsyn decided to take advantage of the Experience Freedom glamping site situated next to the lake for a weekend getaway. We opted…
AquaPaddle is a weekly organised paddle, taking place up and down the country on a waterway near you. We caught up with Craig Duff after he joined his local paddle with his son! Sunday brought a thrilling new experience for me, an avid 5K Park Runner, and my enthusiastic 5-year-old…
Holidays are great. They get you away from your normal surroundings and into some new and exciting places. Whether you are having a staycation or crossing the seas to international lands, we all look forward to that holiday. But why limit your exploring to land? Why not look at having…