New to Paddling? | Tips and services to start you off in the water

Best kayaks for beginners – types of kayak

23/06/201919/04/2021 by cadilambert

cadilambert

Aren't all kayaks the same? Well yes, but the shape and size of different types of kayak can make a big difference to its stability and how it moves on water. As a basic rule the longer the craft the faster it will go in a straight line, the shorter…

Types of canoe: best canoes for beginners

11/06/201910/11/2020 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Aren't all canoes the same? When looking at canoes for beginners, most types will look the same to the untrained eye. They are typically between 14 and 17 feet long with an open space to paddle from. But, there’s a little more to it than that, but we’re going to…

How to kayak in a straight line

01/06/201925/03/2021 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Learning how to kayak in a straight line when you first get started isn't necessarily a top priority. You want to be able to get where you're going first and foremost, then work on the details. So, to help you kayak in a straight line and hone in on those…

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…

Get on the water with a Sit on Top kayak

09/05/201910/01/2020 by Rebecca

Rebecca

You'll have seen plenty of sit on top kayaks around, but you probably didn't know their name. Coming in either an inflatable or hard form, the sit on top kayak is a popular choice for recreational paddlers in the UK. If you don't like being 'in' a traditional style kayak…

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…

Wildlife when paddling: what to look out for

12/04/201913/09/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Paddling is one of the best ways to see wildlife up close and personal without disturbing the natural balance. When you first start out, you might be spending more time looking at the water or what your arms are doing than the nature around you, but as you become more…

Paddling with friends: 5 ways to get your pals paddling

09/04/201913/09/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Paddling with friends is a great way to get fit, socialise, exercise and chill out from the daily stresses of life all at the same time. If you're struggling to find ways to persuade your pals to pick up a paddle, or just want some fresh ideas on how to…

How to paddle a canoe

18/01/201916/08/2019 by Rebecca

Rebecca

If you are looking for a way to get your family together on the water, learn how to paddle a canoe. They are traditional by design and adaptable to many different adventures. If it’s your first time, there are a few things you should know about how to paddle a…

Top tips for paddling a kayak

17/01/201916/08/2019 by Rebecca

Rebecca

In the beginning, paddling a kayak can seem as alien as riding a bike without stabilisers. Although there is a specific technique to paddling, truth is, to get started, as long as you are moving around and getting where you want to, that’s all you need. So don’t sweat the…

Buying a kayak: top tips

30/11/201802/02/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

When you’re new to any sport, one of the most daunting things can be the amount of information out there. People telling you what to do, where to do it, what to buy… the internet is packed full of information. To help your separate the wheat from chaff, we’ve compiled…

How to get into paddling… and stay into it!

26/11/201828/02/2019 by cadilambert

cadilambert

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…

Kayaking for beginners: getting started

23/11/201816/08/2019 by cadilambert

cadilambert

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…

Paddling for women: 5 reasons to get involved

23/11/201821/08/2020 by cadilambert

cadilambert

Paddling is for everyone. It's accessible, easy and social. Many paddling centres promote paddling for women because it's open and welcoming with something for all ages and abilities. The variety and flexibility makes it a great sport or pastime for all. So what are you waiting for? If you needed…

Introduction to Paddling

22/11/201819/07/2022 by cadilambert

cadilambert

Want to learn all about the world of paddling but not sure where to start? When you take up a new hobby the information on offer can be intimidating. But do not fear! We’ve put together this bite sized guide to give you a head start on the water. What…

Canoeing for beginners: getting started

21/11/201816/08/2019 by Rebecca

Rebecca

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…

Choosing a SUP: made simple!

09/11/201808/12/2022 by Rebecca

Rebecca

Choosing a SUP can be a bit of a headache, even for the most seasoned of paddler. Inflatable or hardboard? All rounder or tourer? Surf or white water? If you’re new to the sport, the amount of information out there is quite frankly mind-blowing. So below, we’ve tried to simplify…

Sea kayaking: 6 top tips to get started

09/11/201801/08/2019 by cadilambert

cadilambert

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…

SUP for beginners: introducing SUPs

09/11/201810/01/2019 by Rebecca

Rebecca

SUP, or stand up paddle boarding, is one of the easiest ways to get started on the water. SUPs are fun, versatile, and totally instagrammable, meaning an adventure is more accessible than ever. Whether you live by the sea or near a river, lake or canal, you can join the…

Find a paddling centre. Kids at a paddling centre.

Find local paddling centres

01/11/201816/04/2021 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

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…

Start Award

04/10/201804/12/2020 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

We know it can be intimidating taking your first step into a new hobby, but there's nothing to worry about, this is going to be fun! Take your worries away with this award and start with the very basics, including an enjoyable practical session. First time on the water? This…

Discover Award

03/10/201822/07/2020 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

If you've completed a Start Award and want to learn more, the Discover Award is perfect for you. It'll help you develop a better understanding of the fundamentals of paddling. During this award, your instructor will work with you to evolve your decision making and practical skills, giving you confidence…

Explore Award

03/10/201820/06/2022 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

Looking to hone in your skills before you head off on a paddle trail? If you've completed the Start or Discover award, want to develop your skills before moving on to Personal Performance Awards, or just want to build your confidence, the Explore award is for you! What is the…

Find paddling course providers

02/10/201816/04/2021 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

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…

The differences between paddling and rowing

12/09/201822/07/2020 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

Some people believe these are the same thing. But, there are many differences between paddling and rowing. After all, you don't row a kayak or paddle a boat. Yes, there are similarities. For example, they are both manually propelled through the water. But that's where the similarities end. To help…

Five differences between canoes and kayaks

11/09/201825/03/2021 by Barry Wade

Barry Wade

It's a question we've all asked at some point. What is the difference between a canoe and kayak? After all, they look very similar. The main way to know the difference is by looking at the type of paddle being used. Canoeists use a paddle with a blade at just one…

« Previous 1 2

British Canoeing Services Login

Save Money On Your Waterways Licence

Member Add-Ons - One Time Offer!

Craft Insurance

No perks! Are you sure...?

Pay Securely With Stripe