Paddle UK’s top places to SUP in the UK

As October rolls in, so does the much-loved season of autumn.

As October rolls in, so does the much-loved season of autumn. The different weather and water conditions make for an entirely new paddling experience. Plus, the landscape is starting to change colour, which gives us incredible scenery. So, here’s a guide to our top places to SUP in the UK.

River Soar

Embark on a tranquil paddle along the picturesque Nottingham/Leicester border. Pass through the historic city of Leicester, or enjoy an idyllic paddle in the countryside, passing market towns whose heritage is deeply intertwined with the River Soar. Barrow-upon-Soar, Stanford, Normanton, Kingston, and Ratcliffe-on-Soar all carry the Soar in their identity.

Discover charming pub gardens that extend to the water’s edge, offering convenient pit stops for your adventure.

A waterways licence is required for the River Soar. This can be purchased from Paddle UK: https://paddleuk.org.uk/membership/

Find trails and launch points: https://gopaddling.info/rivers/river-soar/

Coniston Water – Lake District

In the shadows of the mountain Old Man of Coniston sits the beautiful Coniston Water. You won’t be short of incredible fell views. From the Western shore lies Coniston village, which hosts a range of cafes, shops and pubs. At half a mile wide and close to five miles long, it’s the third-largest lake in the Lake District. 

No waterways licence is required to paddle on Coniston Water.

Find trails and launch points: https://gopaddling. info/blog/lakes/coniston-water/

Remember, lakes can be quite exposed. Make sure you’ve planned your route and are well prepared for a day on the water. If you’re new to paddling, it’s worth starting by sticking close to the shoreline. This will keep you sheltered from the weather and ensure you can get back to land easily if needed.

Llangollen Canal

The Llangollen Canal is an impressive stretch of canal that has something for every paddler. At 46 miles long, you can enjoy a day trip or plan a multi-day trip. 

What sets the Llangollen Canal apart is its stunning scenery and the engineering feats used to construct it. The scenery is very varied, from farmland and sheep pastures to ancient peat mosses, tree-lined lakes around Ellesmere, and the foothills of Snowdonia at Llangollen. The journey also includes picturesque stops in charming towns like Ellesmere, Chirk, and Whitehouse.

Find trails and launch points: https://gopaddling. info/blog/canals/llangollen-canal/

A waterways licence is required to paddle on the Llangollen Canal. This can be purchased from Paddle UK: https://paddleuk.org.uk/membership/ 

River Cam

Enjoy 43 miles of paddling adventures along the beautiful River Cam, where history and nature meet. As you navigate its gentle waters, your journey will take you to the very heart of the university city of Cambridge. Here, you’ll be welcomed by historic colleges, picturesque bridges, and lush green landscapes.

The River Cam is an integral part of local culture and art. ‘The Reeve’s Tale’ from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and the famous section known as ‘Byron’s Pool’ both weave tales of the river’s significance. It’s said that Lord Byron himself occasionally took a dip in this very water, adding a touch of literary and historical mystique to your journey.

Find trails and launch points: https://gopaddling.info/rivers/river-cam/

Loch Awe

At 25 miles in length, Loch Awe is the longest freshwater loch in Scotland. You’re guaranteed an awe-inspiring paddle in a rugged, remote west coast landscape. 

The loch has several small islands; one in particular to look out for is Innis Chonnell, where the ruins of Ardchonnel Castle stand. The castle dates back to the 11th Century and belonged to the chief of Clan Campbell. 

No waterways licence is required to paddle on Loch Awe.

Find trails and launch points: https://gopaddling.info/blog/lakes/loch-awe/

The wind and weather can change quickly in this area. Please check the weather forecast before setting off. 

Grand Union Canal

Embark on an unforgettable paddle along the Grand Union Canal, the longest canal in the UK! This magnificent waterway meanders through the countryside and bustling cities, setting the stage for an epic multi-day adventure. As you glide along, you’ll pass through the enchanting towns of Solihull, Royal Leamington Spa, Milton Keynes, and Leighton Buzzard, where you’ll discover several canal arms branching off from the main route, each offering mini-adventures.

Find trails and launch points: https://gopaddling. info/blog/canals/grand-union-canal/

A waterways licence is required to paddle on the Grand Union Canal. This can be purchased at Paddle UK: https://paddleuk.org.uk/membership/