13 Places To Go Stand Up Paddleboarding
We’re not short of paddleboarding spots in the UK, with wonderful lakes, beaches, and waterways to choose from. Stand up paddleboarding (also known as SUP) is a fantastic way to explore the UK’s waters (and a great workout too!). If you’ve not tried out this popular watersport before, view our guide to stand up paddleboarding. Below you’ll find a great selection of locations, from the iconic waters of Loch Ness to the rugged coastlines of Cornwall. So, grab your paddle and discover your next SUP location.
1. Burgh Island, Devon
This beautiful tidal island off the coast of South Devon is a popular spot for paddleboarding. The island is directly opposite Bigbury-on-Sea which is the most popular place to launch from and it’s easy to find paddleboards for hire and even instructor-led sessions from here. If you take your time going around the island, you’ll come across small coves and caves and see plenty along the way.
2. Lake Windermere, Lake District
The calm waters of Lake Windermere and its beautiful surroundings make it one of the best lakes in the UK for stand up paddleboarding. Being the largest natural lake in England, there are plenty of starting points to choose from and areas to explore. However, due to its popularity, Lake Windermere can get busy, so find a quiet spot and look out for boats. There are lots of companies around Windermere that provide lessons for beginners and equipment hire.
Bowness-on-Windermere Club Site
3. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands
With dark waters shrouded in mystery and dramatic views of hills and mountains, time spent paddleboarding on the waters of Loch Ness won’t be easily forgotten. Our Loch Ness Shores Club Site is on the quieter south shore and offers direct access to the water. Just remember to watch out for Nessie!
4. Sennen Cove, Cornwall
From Sennen Cove, you can get a great view of Land’s End, and there are plenty of other little wonders like the local seal colony. If you’re a beginner wanting to explore the waters around Sennen Cove, we recommend booking a guided SUP lesson, as the sea can be choppy here.
5. Coniston Water, Lake District
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds at Lake Windermere and Ullswater, Coniston Water is often a much quieter alternative in the Lake District but just as beautiful. You’ll still need to look out for open water swimmers and boats, but you’ll be much more likely to find your own quiet spot to explore.
6. Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Head to the traditional seaside resort of Scarborough to SUP along Yorkshire’s dramatic coastline. There’s a brilliant mix sheltered bays and more open waters for a varied paddling experience. North Bay and South Bay are relatively sheltered and good places for beginners, although it’s still worth booking a lesson if you plan to head away from the shoreline. Cayton Bay is a popular location and much quieter if you’re struggling with.
7. Chichester, West Sussex
Explore the wonderful coastline around West Sussex on your standup paddleboard from Chichester. You’ll need to pay a small fee to SUP in Chichester Harbour, but it’s worth it to explore the area of outstanding natural beauty from the calm waters. Beginners are well catered to, with a few companies offering tours and equipment hire.
8. Loch Lomond, Scotland
SUP on the largest loch in Scotland, within the glorious Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Views of dense woodland, rolling hills and picture-perfect islands surround Loch Lomond. If that’s not enough of a reason to visit, its proximity to our Milarrochy Bay Club Site makes it ridiculously easy to get to the water from your pitch and start exploring.
Loch Lomond campsites
9. River Wye, Herefordshire
The Wye Valley, home to the River Wye is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty so you can guarantee a scenic stand up paddle board session here. The River Wye meanders through the valley and past our Wyeside Club Site which makes the perfect base to explore the area.
10. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
The Dorset Coast, with its cliffside scenery and beautiful sandy beaches, is perfect for beginners and experienced paddleboarders. Bournemouth Beach is a beautiful sandy stretch offering some of the warmest sea temperatures in the UK. Once you’ve had your fill of Bournemouth, head to nearby Poole Harbour, which is another popular paddleboarding spot.
11. River Cam, Cambridge
Enjoy a trip down the River Cam on your paddleboard, taking in landmarks along the way such as the Bridge of Sighs, historic colleges, and the famous “Backs”, which are beautiful parks and gardens lined up along the river bank.
12. Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire
One of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic beaches, Whitesands Bay is popular with paddleboarders and surfers. Experienced paddleboarders can paddle along the coastline on a calm day to find secluded beaches, spot wildlife, and peek into caves.
13. Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has many beautiful spots for stand up paddleboarding, but Strangford Lough is one of the most popular places. The sea loch is surrounded by views of rolling hills, hidden coves, and picture-perfect islands. Stay on our Delamont Country Park Club Site for views over Strangford Lough throughout your stay.
View more holiday inspiration and things to do around the UK's waters below.