The Best Places to Paddleboard in the UK
The UK is brimming with incredible paddleboarding spots – from sparkling lakes and winding rivers to rugged coastlines and golden beaches. Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is not only a fun and accessible way to explore these waters, but it’s also a great full-body workout! If you’re new to this popular watersport, view our guide to stand up paddleboarding. Below you’ll find a great selection of SUP locations, from the iconic waters of Loch Ness to the rugged coastlines of Cornwall. Grab your paddle, your next adventure awaits.
Best Places in England to Paddleboard
Burgh Island, Devon
Great for: Beginners
This beautiful tidal island off the coast of South Devon is a popular spot for paddleboarding. The island is located just opposite Bigbury-on-Sea - an ideal launch spot – it’s only around a 20-minute drive from our California Cross Club Site. Bigbury-on-Sea offers easy access to paddleboard hire and instructor-led sessions, making it a perfect choice for beginners. Once you’ve built up your confidence, take a trip around the island to discover hidden sea caves, quiet coves, and scenic surprises.
Why visit Devon? Campsites in Devon offer easy access to some of the best beaches in the UK, plus a wealth of unforgettable day trips. Devon has two national parks, Dartmoor and Exmoor, perfect for walking, cycling and scenery. For families, there are plenty of attractions to explore, including Exmoor Zoo, Dartmouth Castle, and the nostalgic Seaton Tramway.
Lake Windermere, Lake District
Great for: Paddling on a large lake
The calm waters of Lake Windermere, surrounded by stunning Lake District scenery, make it one of the best lakes in the UK for stand up paddleboarding. Our Bowness on Windermere Club Site is the perfect base for exploring the southern lakes, with the shoreline of Lake Windermere just a 5-minute stroll away. There are numerous launch points around the lake and you’ll find plenty of options for paddleboard hire and instructor-led sessions if needed.
Tip: Lake Windermere can have a high level of boat traffic so keep an eye out and stay clear of the path of water vehicles.
Coniston Water, Lake District
Great for: Beating the Lake District crowds
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. Our Windermere Club Site, with its own on-site pub is a relaxing base with camping pods available to book.
Why visit the Lake District? There are plenty of reasons for the Lake District being one of the most popular regions in the UK for a camping holiday. For thrill-seekers, Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in the UK, is a must. Prefer a slower pace? Walk, cycle or boat your way around iconic lakes like Derwentwater, Coniston Water and Ullswater for some of the best scenery the UK has to offer.
Sennen Cove, Cornwall
Great for: Coastal views, nature lovers
Our Sennen Cove Club Site on the Lands’s End peninsula is a brilliant base for paddleboarding along the Cornish coast. The beach is just a short 5-minute drive or 45-minute walk from the campsite. Sennen Cove offers a great view of Land’s End, and there are plenty of other little wonders, like the local seal colony, to discover. The sea around this part of the coast can be choppy so we’d recommend beginners join an instructor-led tour of the area.
Why visit Cornwall? The coast is one of the biggest attractions for those camping in Cornwall. St Ives, Bude, Port Isaac and Falmouth are some of the most popular towns and villages, all coming with their individual charms and attractions. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Adrenalin Quarry, Tintagel Castle and the world-famous Eden Project are just a few of the family friendly days out to look forward to.
Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Great for: Open water adventure, experienced paddleboarders
Head to the traditional seaside resort of Scarborough to SUP along Yorkshire’s dramatic coastline. Just a short cliff-top walk from our Scarborough Club Site, North Bay offers a relatively sheltered spot that’s great for getting started. For a quieter experience, Cayton Bay is ideal – especially for beginners – with a surf school providing lessons and rentals. You’ll find a mix of sheltered bays and more open waters for a varied paddling experience along the Scarborough coastline.
Why visit North Yorkshire? It’s not just the rugged coastline that draws people to this part of the country. North Yorkshire includes both the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales National Park, large moorlands with picture perfect scenery and numerous walking and cycling trails. The city of York, Scarborough Castle and the theme park Flamingo Land are just a few other places you can visit.
Chichester, West Sussex
Great for: Beauty spots
Our Chichester Club Site is just a short walk to the coast and Chichester Harbour, where you can pay a small fee to SUP. Designated a National Landscape, the harbour is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and calm waters. Beginners are well catered to in West Sussex, with a few companies offering tours and equipment hire.
Why visit West Sussex? You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches, with West Wittering, East Head, and Selsey as just a few to explore from our Chichester Club Site. The historic city of Chichester, the only city in the county, also makes for a great family day out, with its mix of culture, shops, and heritage.
Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
Great for: Beginners
With its cliffside views and sandy beaches, the Dorset Coast is ideal for paddleboarders of all experience levels. Just a 30 minute drive from our Verwood Club Site, Bournemouth Beach is a beautiful sandy stretch offering some of the warmest sea temperatures in the UK, making it ideal for beginners. Once you’ve had your fill of Bournemouth, head to nearby Poole Harbour, which is another popular paddleboarding spot.
Why visit Dorset? Dorset is home to some of the most popular beach destinations in the UK including Weymouth and Bournemouth. Enjoy fossil hunting, boat trips, windy coastal walks and plenty of fresh local seafood.
River Cam, Cambridge
Great for: Scenic views
Using our Cambridge Club Site as a base, enjoy a paddleboarding trip along the River Cam. You can join a guided tour or enjoy a solo paddle along the river to take in landmarks such as the Bridge of Sighs, historic colleges, and the famous “Backs”, which are beautiful parks and gardens lined up along the riverbank.
Why visit Cambridge? Home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, Cambridge has a rich history to uncover. Visit university colleges, explore fascinating architecture and explore museums. For families, Hamerton Zoo Park and Shepreth Wildlife Park are just a fea of the other attractions you can visit.
Best Places in Scotland to Paddleboard
Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands
Great for: Dramatic views, experienced paddleboarders
Our Loch Ness Shores Club Site offers direct access to the shoreline of one of Scotland’s most famous lochs. With its mysterious dark waters and breathtaking views of surrounding hills and mountains, paddleboarding on the waters of Loch Ness is unforgettable. The freshwater loch is the second deepest in Great Britain and is notorious for changing weather conditions, so it’s recommended to check the wind forecasts before you head out, and if you’re unsure of the best spots, book a guided tour to get started. Just remember to watch out for Nessie!
Why visit the Scottish Highlands? Camping in the Highlands promises endless outdoor adventure. Explore natural wonders like Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, and the impressive Falls of Foyers. With rugged landscapes and rich folklore, it’s a destination that truly captures the imagination.
Loch Lomond, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park
Great for: Scenery, sheltered bays
SUP on Scotland’s largest loch, set within the glorious Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Our Milarrochy Bay Club Site is on the east side of Loch Lomond, with the water being just a few steps from your pitch. Here, you’ll be surrounded by views of dense woodland, rolling hills and picture-perfect islands. While the waters here can be calm, the weather can be changeable, and you’ll need a wetsuit as the waters are cold.
Why visit Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park? If you love the outdoors, this area of Scotland has it all. Climb Ben Lomond, pick up a section of the West Highland Way or jump on your bike and explore.
Loch Greshornish, Isle of Skye
Great for: Peaceful paddles, beginners
Our Skye Club Site overlooks the tranquil waters of Loch Greshornish, one of the best spots to paddleboard on the Isle of Skye. This campsite also has camping pods for a taste of glamping. Loch Greshornish is often quiet with minimal boat traffic and its sheltered waters make it an ideal spot for beginners. The surrounding landscape provides a scenic paddle, with mountain views in every direction.
Why visit the Isle of Skye? Skye has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an action-packed break or a relaxed camping holiday. Explore iconic sights like Dunvegan Castle, the Fairy Pools, and Neist Point Lighthouse. Add in boat trips, beach days, and walking trails, and you’ve got the perfect island getaway.
River Tay, Tayside
Great for: Experienced, beginners, varied conditions
Scotland’s longest river, the River Tay, flows past Scone Palace, home to our Scone Club Site. You can launch from various points along the riverbank and enjoy a mix of calm and whitewater sections. Beginners can head to Willowgate Activity Centre for a paddleboarding taster session on their private lagoon to gain confidence before hitting the river.
Why visit Tayside? Tayside is full of adventure and heritage. From tranquil lochs to historic sites like Falkland Palace, once a favourite of Mary, Queen of Scots, there’s plenty to explore. While staying at our Scone Club Site, don’t miss Broughty Ferry Beach—a beautiful Blue Flag stretch of sand ideal for a relaxing day out.
Best Places in Wales to Paddleboard
River Wye, Powys
Great for: A long river paddle
Flowing through the Wye Valley, a designated National Landscape, the River Wye offers one of the most scenic paddleboarding experiences in Britain. At 251km long, its one of the country’s longest rivers - perfect for a gentle, meandering paddle through peaceful countryside. Our Wyeside Club Site is just on the banks of the river, so you’ll be just a stone’s throw from the water.
Why visit Powys? Powys has something for everyone—from breathtaking views to adrenaline-filled adventures. History enthusiasts can explore sites like Montgomery Castle, while outdoor lovers will enjoy the vast Brecon Beacons National Park. For a more relaxed day, head to Kerry Vale Vineyard for a leisurely and indulgent experience.
Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire
Great for: Beginners, experts
One of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic beaches, Whitesands Bay is just a 15 minute drive from our St Davids Club Site. Whitesands Bay is popular with paddleboarders and surfers, offering a mix of beginner friendly areas and open water. Experienced paddleboarders can paddle along the coastline on a calm day to find secluded beaches, spot wildlife, and peek into caves.
Why visit Pembrokeshire? A camping trip to Pembrokeshire offers a mix of coastal towns, Welsh heritage and historical landmarks. St Davids, five miles from our campsite with the same name, is the smallest city in the UK and has a cathedral, cobbled streets, shops and restaurants to enjoy.
Cardigan Bay, Ceredigion
Great for: Beginners
Cardigan Bay is the largest bay on the Welsh coast and is easily accessible from our Cardigan Bay Club Site. You’ll find several companies in the area offer a mix of board hire and lessons. Parts of the bay are well sheltered, especially around New Quay which also holds Blue Flag status. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as bottlenose dolphins, seals, and porpoises are some commonly spotted inhabitants of the area.
Why visit Ceredigion? This scenic coastal county is packed with spectacular views, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly activities. Take a boat trip to spot dolphins, whales, and seals, hike the dramatic Ceredigion Coast Path, or ride the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway and explore local castle ruins. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Best Places in Northern Ireland to Paddleboard
Strangford Lough, County Down
Great for: Beginners, wildlife
With flat, sheltered waters, Strangford Lough is one of the best places to try stand up paddleboarding in Northern Ireland. 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. As a designated Marine Nature Reserve, Strangford Lough is a haven for wildlife—keep an eye out for seals, porpoises, and terns as you explore.
Why visit County Down? Camping in County Down offers stunning views of the Mourne Mountains, dramatic landscapes, and lush forest trails. Dive into local history at St. Patrick’s sites and Castle Ward, and take time to enjoy the beautiful coastline and charming villages nearby.
Benone Strand, County Londonderry
Great for: Scenery, experienced paddleboarders
On a clear day, this Blue Flag beach is ideal for a scenic paddle, with sweeping views of Binevenagh and across to Donegal. Benone Strand offers excellent facilities, including free parking, toilets, seasonal lifeguards, and a coffee kiosk—perfect for a post-paddle warm-up. Search for campsites in County Londonderry to find a convenient base nearby.
Why visit County Londonderry? This part of Northern Ireland boasts spectacular coastal scenery, with dramatic cliff walks. Located along the famous Causeway Coastal Route, you’ll be within reach of Giant’s Causeway, one of the UK’s most iconic natural wonders. Don’t miss a visit to the historic city of Derry, where you can walk along the preserved 17th-century city walls.
We hope this guide has given you plenty of inspiration for your next stand up paddleboarding adventure in the UK. Make sure you share your adventures by tagging us in your images on Facebook or Instagram.