14 EPIC Places to Go Paddle Boarding Near Me in Birmingham & the West Midlands
LOOKING FOR THE BEST PADDLEBOARDING SPOTS IN THE WEST MIDLANDS? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!
As a West Midlands local born and raised, I’ve gone paddle boarding at most locations in this guide and highly recommend them for their stunning scenery, easy water routes, and high-quality equipment on hire.
Paddle boarding is an exciting water sport activity that has been surging in popularity in recent years, and the West Midlands has numerous stunning locations that offer some of the best paddleboarding experiences available for people of all ages, whether newbies or pros.
What is stand up paddleboarding?
Also known as ‘stand up paddle boarding’ (SUP), the popular water sport activity involves standing on a board and using a paddle to navigate the water. You can stand or kneel on the board and use your arms to propel yourself forward with a paddle.
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Short on Time? Here are our Top 3 Paddleboarding Spots in the West Midlands:
1: Leamington Spa SUP Taster Session
The perfect introduction for couples or friends. This affordable 2-hour session on a calm Warwickshire waterway provides all equipment and expert guidance to get you SUPing with confidence. Grab your 2-Hour Taster SUP Session HERE
2: SUP Yoga on the River Avon, Worcester
Find your flow in a truly unique wellness experience that combines the core challenge of paddleboarding with a mindful yoga practice, led by a certified instructor. Book a SUP Yoga Session HERE
3: Paddleboarding River Safari on the River Avon
Voted ‘Experience of The Year’, this 2.5-hour safari is an award-winning adventure. Perfect for beginners, it teaches essential skills while immersing you in a tranquil wilderness teeming with wildlife. Book your SUP Safari experience HERE
The popularity of this activity is down to its ease of learning, safety, and inclusivity, as well as being an exciting and adventurous activity offering a full-body workout.
1. Paddleboarding River Safari on the River Avon, Worcestershire
Voted ‘Experience of The Year 22/23’ at the Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards, this SUP Safari is the ultimate way to explore the unspoiled beauty of the River Avon.
★ River Avon SUP Safari features:
An award-winning safari that is more than just a lesson. This 2.5-hour journey from the Arden Sailing Club teaches essential skills while immersing you in the tranquil wilderness of the River Avon, teeming with wildlife. £65 per person.
Run by the ASI-accredited Wittering SUP school, this is far more than a standard lesson; it’s a comprehensive beginner-friendly adventure that equips you with the skills to safely explore natural waterways.
The safari begins with a land-based briefing covering techniques and safety before you set out on a gentle journey downstream.
The route meanders away from roads and towns into a quiet wilderness, where you’re likely to spot kingfishers, herons, otters, and red kites. It’s a truly immersive form of eco-therapy that nourishes both body and mind.
Why book this? You get expert coaching from passionate instructors, stunning scenery, and a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s perfect for beginners and intermediates alike who want to combine skill-building with a true sense of adventure and connection with nature.
Admission: £65 per person (a family ticket for 2 adults & 2 children is £220)
Opening Times: Check provider for session times
Amenities: Toilets, changing rooms, and secure parking at Arden Sailing Club
➡️ Take up an award-winning adventure and book your River Avon SUP Safari here.
My gift was for a SUP lesson which I chose to have back in June. Everything went as anticipated; booking no problem, instructor very personable as well as inspiring us throughout the lesson. We were lucky to have a lesson for just the two of us (my friend and I). I would have no hesitation in either going back or giving a similar gift.
debbie | ★★★★★
2. River Wye Paddleboarding, Herefordshire
For those with some paddleboarding experience looking to build skills and confidence, this full-day expedition on the mighty River Wye is an unforgettable adventure.
★ River Wye Day Trip features:
An epic, full-day paddleboarding adventure through this AONB. Led by qualified BCU coaches, this trip includes a riverside picnic and is perfect for building confidence and skills. All equipment is provided for £89 per person.
Setting off from Kerne Bridge near Ross-on-Wye, you’ll spend the day navigating one of the UK’s most beautiful rivers, surrounded by lush woodlands, dramatic limestone cliffs, and abundant wildlife.
This is a guided trip led by qualified British Canoe Union coaches who will help you navigate the water and share their knowledge of the stunning Wye Valley.
The journey includes a stop at a scenic riverside spot for a picnic lunch (which you bring along), allowing you to refuel and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing your descent downstream .
Why book this? It’s a comprehensive paddleboarding experience that turns a day out into a genuine expedition. You’ll cover a significant distance under expert guidance, making it perfect for those ready to progress from short hires to a more substantial journey on the water.
Admission: £89 per person
Opening Times: Selected weekend dates from May to September
Amenities: Shower and changing facilities are available at the end of the trip
➡️ Embark on an expedition and book your River Wye Day Trip Paddleboarding experience HERE.
3. Leamington Spa SUP Sessions, Warwickshire
Looking for a fun and accessible way to try paddleboarding for the first time? This 2-hour taster session based near the elegant Regency town of Leamington Spa is the perfect introduction. Set on a sheltered and calm stretch of water, it’s an ideal spot for beginners to find their feet—and their balance—without the pressure of busy open water.
★ Leamington Spa SUP features:
Perfect introduction to paddleboarding on a calm, scenic Warwickshire waterway. Fantastic and affordable activity for couples or friends, with all equipment and expert guidance included for £39 per person.
Under the guidance of friendly, qualified instructors, you’ll learn the basics of standing, balancing, and paddling efficiently. Within no time, you’ll be gliding calmly across the water, enjoying a unique perspective of the beautiful Warwickshire countryside. This experience is all about fun and building confidence in a supportive, small-group environment.
Why book this? It’s brilliantly priced for a multi-person outing, making it one of the best-value experiences for couples or two friends looking to try something new together. The session includes all the necessary kit, so you can just turn up and get straight on the water.
Admission: £39 per person
Opening Times: Sessions run on selected dates, typically on weekends
Amenities: Toilets and changing facilities available on site
➡️ Book your 2-Hour Taster SUP Session for two HERE.
We had an enjoyable session paddleboarding. It was just the right length of time, and wasn’t too expensive. The staff were great. The booking experience through IntoTheBlue was also very effecient.
MW | ★★★★★
Already an experienced paddleboarder? Book the 5-hour Discover SUP session instead where you can be assessed for a British Canoeing Paddle Discover Award!
4. SUP Yoga on the River Avon, Worcestershire
Ready to take your paddleboarding to a whole new level of zen? SUP Yoga on the River Avon promises a blissful escape that combines the core-strengthening challenge of paddleboarding with the mindful practice of yoga. This is no ordinary lesson; it’s a moving meditation in one of Worcestershire’s most tranquil settings.
★ SUP Yoga on the River Avon features:
The ultimate fusion of mindfulness and adventure. Float anchored on a serene section of the River Avon while flowing through yoga poses, surrounded by pure nature. A truly unique wellness experience for £25 per session.
Your instructor, Alex, is one of only a handful of ASI-certified SUP Yoga instructors in the UK. With her warm and encouraging style, she creates a safe and supportive space for everyone, whether you’re new to yoga, SUP, or both.
After a gentle paddle to a quiet spot, you’ll anchor your board and be guided through a 45-minute yoga sequence, ending with a deeply relaxing floating shavasana as the river gently rocks you .
Why book this? It’s an incredible way to deepen your connection with nature while improving your flexibility and balance. The small group size (maximum of 8) ensures a personal and peaceful experience. It’s the perfect activity to unwind, de-stress, and see the River Avon from an entirely new perspective.
Admission: £25 per person
Opening Times: 1.5-hour sessions, check website for specific dates and times
Amenities: Toilets, changing rooms, and secure parking at Arden Sailing Club
➡️ Find your flow and book your SUP Yoga Session on the River Avon HERE.
5. Staffordshire: Pier 52 at Chasewater Country Park
Pier 52 Chasewater is a friendly watersports venue located at the 270-acre Chasewater Reservoir in Burntwood, that offers stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) to the public.
★ Chasewater Country Park features:
Forested lakeside oasis with tree-framed views across placid lake waters perfect for family paddling.
Built in the late 18th Century, Chasewater Reservoir supplies and maintains the water levels of the important trading routes that forms the Birmingham Canal Network.
Easily one of my favorite spots on this list, Chasewater is a large lake surrounded by stunning scenery and close to Cannock Chase Forest – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Pier 52 has both experienced and novice paddlers covered, and their expert instructors will help you progress at a pace that is suitable for you.
The pricing at Pier 52 Chasewater is £10 for 2 hours, though if you wish to share the board with others during the 2 hours, each additional person will cost £5.
Pier 52 Chasewater is also a great place to enjoy other water sports and is a lovely place for a walk with a park, a large pond with swans and ducks, an info centre, a cafe, and a railway, and makes for a perfect family day out from Birmingham.
Admission: No gate fee, pay for rentals
Opening Times: Mon-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat-Sun 12-4pm
Amenities: Lakeside cafe, toilets, parking
Essential Paddle boarding Checklist: What to Wear / Gear to Bring
✅ Pair of decent water shoes for grip, comfort, and keeping your feet warm and dry
✅ Suitable wetsuit that keeps you warm and dry, as well as protects from grazes and sunburn
✅ Lightweight microfibre towel that dries quickly
✅ Dry bag to keep your belongings dry
✅ The perfect paddleboard that suits your style and matches your weight
6. The River Severn: Hire a Canoe, Shrewsbury
The River Severn is a superb place for experienced paddlers, offering a challenging and scenic journey along one of the longest rivers in the UK.
★ River Severn, Shrewsbury features:
Serene river paddling with picturesque town backdrop. Float under the iconic Iron Bridge through swan-dotted channels and weirs for £15-25 half/full day rental.
Paddle boarding at Hire a Canoe Shrewsbury is an exciting and fun-filled activity providing an opportunity for visitors to admire the beautiful countryside and explore the picturesque River Severn in Shropshire.
At Hire a Canoe, visitors can hire a stand-up paddle board for £24 per person, including all necessary equipment. You can also take instructor-led paddle board lessons at £36 per person.
Want something longer? opt for the 12-mile trip instead – you’ll be picked up from Frankwell in Shrewsbury and driven to Montford Bridge. For £96, you can combine a 12-mile paddleboarding session with an overnight camping stay at a riverbank campsite.
Provided are three different sizes of paddle boards for all ages as well as wetsuits free of charge. Participants must bring their own waterproof footwear, or a pair of shoes they don’t mind getting wet.
Hire A Canoe has rave reviews with previous visitors describing the experience as “nothing was too much trouble and everything was well organized and prepared”. Reviews include “there’s no feeling quite like paddle boarding” which I totally agree with!
While you’re in the area, checkout the nearby market town of Wem, Shropshire’s hidden gem.
Admission: Rental rates £15-£25 per half/full day
Opening Times: 9am-5pm seasonally
Amenities: Cafe, parking, changing rooms
Where to Stay in the West Midlands
Here are my best budget, mid-range and luxury recommendations on accommodation in the West Midlands:
◉ Birmingham: Digbeth Aparthotel (standard studio) – Fabulous 8.6 | £
◉ Birmingham: StayCity Aparthotels Birmingham Jewellery Quarter (entire apartment) – Fabulous 8.9 | ££
◉ Wolverhampton: Broad Gauge Apartments (2-bed apartment) – Fabulous 8.9 | ££
◉ Solihull: Mulberry House (4-bed house) – Superb 9.1 | £££
Related post: 27 Top Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Shropshire
7. Sutton Park: Sutton Sailing Club
Sutton Sailing Club is located at Powells Pool in the sprawling 2,400-acre Sutton Park National Nature Reserve, on the edge of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield.
★ Sutton Sailing Club features:
Vast Midlands oasis of wildlife and scenery on a stunning lake. Seasonal membership grants rental access on 250-acre waters. £100 annually.
The club specialises in stand-up paddleboarding and dinghying and has a friendly atmosphere. If you’re interested in trying stand up paddleboarding, you can bring your own board, or hire one from the club for a small fee.
The club is set in the scenic Sutton Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, and also offers model boating on Powells pool lake. Blackroot Pool is where you’ll usually find others paddleboarding, though you’ll also find paddleboarders at Bracebridge Pool.
Admission: Membership required for rentals
Opening Times: 9am-5pm daily. Season opens May-October
Amenities: Kiosk cafe, parking lot
→ More Birmingham guides:
The Best Time to Visit Birmingham
Free Things to Do in Birmingham
8. Whitchurch: Alderford Lake
One of the most stunning places to go paddleboarding in the Midlands is at the 14-acre Alderford Lake near the historic town of Whitchurch, close to the border with Wales.
★ Alderford Lake features:
Paddle the 100 acre nature reserve and bird sanctuary’s rippled lake ringed by rolling Shropshire hills. Spot ducks and herons along towering tree-lined banks for £22/hour.
Alderford Lake is perfect for water adventurers, whether you’re a wild-water swimming fanatic, boating enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out with your family. SUP, Kayak, and Canoe hire are available at Alderford Lake, the perfect spot for both complete novices and experienced pros.
You can bring your own paddle boarding equipment onto the lake or hire out equipment, available for hire every weekend between April-September, and during the week throughout the school term holidays.
The All-Day Self Launch pass costs just £8 per adult and £6.15 for children aged 13-17 years. Paddleboard rental prices start from £22 per person.
For amateurs or those wanting to take lessons, there are sessions led by ASI-qualified instructors available from £30 on Saturdays and Sundays.
I still remember my first time paddleboarding at Alderford Lake near Whitchurch several years ago. I was a bit shaky at first, wobbling to find my balance with each stroke. But within an hour I was calmly gliding across crystal clear waters, taking in our stunning surroundings.
Admission: £22 per hour rental fee
Opening Times: Open daily from 8am to 4:30pm, last entry 4pm (open until 8pm on Wednesdays). The cafe is also open during these hours.
9. Birmingham: Edgbaston Watersports
A beautiful, 70-acre site of open water surrounded by wood and grasslands, Edgbaston Reservoir is home to Edgbaston Watersports, Birmingham’s premier water sports venue offering a broad range of activities including boat-touring, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, sailing, and of course paddle boarding.
★ Edgbaston Watersports features:
Convenient urban escape on a large reservoir packed with wildlife and nature, right in the heart of the city. Lesson + board rental £30 per hour.
Edgbaston Watersports also stands out for its specialist courses that cater to all levels of ability and works with schools, colleges, universities, youth organisations, and adult and junior groups.
The company values quality, safety, learning, fun, and adventure, with a focus on individual needs and developing self-esteem, confidence, teamwork, and social awareness, as well as an appreciation for the natural environment.
Another one of my faves on the list, Edgbaston Watersports is a surprisingly large area of nature close to the centre of Birmingham, making it a very convenient getaway from the smoke and bustle of the city.
Equipment is available for hire on an hourly basis and includes wetsuits, spray tops, and buoyancy aids, however they advise visitors to bring their own towels, swimsuits and suitable footwear.
Sail Birmingham runs programs like the ‘Monday Night Paddle Club’ between 5-6pm on Mondays, which anyone over 16 can book a paddle boarding session for a reduced rate of £10, though if you turn up with your own equipment you can just pay a reduced access charge of £5.
On Wednesday evenings there’s “Go Paddling” throughout the summer months. Costing £14 per person, this program is suitable for people aged 8 and above and includes all instructions and equipment.
Admission: £30 per hour lesson + rental
Opening Times: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-1pm (closed Sundays)
Amenities: Restaurant/bar on grounds, parking
10. Ironbridge: Shropshire Raft Tours
One of the unique aspects of Shropshire Raft Tours in Shropshire is that they offer Mega Paddle Boards that can accommodate 5 to 8 people, making it the perfect choice for families, groups of friends, or school day trips.
★ Ironbridge Gorge features:
Rich gorge scenery and industrial relics abound on this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shropshire Go on paddle tours along the River Severn’s history-steeped banks for £25/person.
The route is 8.5 miles long and is along the River Severn, which is one of the longest and most scenic rivers in England. This is a superb way to enjoy the scenery and explore the beauty of the River Severn.
The starting point is upriver and finishes in historic Ironbridge, offering participants between 3-4 hours of paddle surfing.
Mega paddle board rental prices start from £149 and go up to £179, depending on the number of persons involved. All the equipment is provided, including paddles, helmets, dry bags, and buoyancy aids. Visitors are required to wear appropriate clothing or bring their own wetsuits for the sessions.
Having paddled here a couple times, I found Ironbridge to offer one of the most picturesque paddleboard experiences alongside Alderford Lake, given the stunning Shropshire countryside and the iconic Ironbridge Gorge that it passes through.
Shropshire Raft Tours ranks among the top attractions in Telford while Ironbridge Gorge is one of the best West Midlands family day trips, all the more reason to visit.
Admission: £25 per person for 1.5 hour tour (gear included)
Opening Times: 9am-9pm daily. Tours run weekends and holidays
Amenities: Parking available riverside
Related post: Shifnal: Gateway to the Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site
11. Rudyard Lake, Staffordshire
Carved into the Staffordshire Moorlands during the Industrial Revolution to feed the Trent & Mersey Canal, Rudyard Lake is a serene 2.5-mile stretch of water framed by wooded hills and the nostalgic chuff of a heritage steam train.
★ Rudyard Lake Key Features:
Picturesque inland lake with diverse wildlife and tranquil waters, ideal for SUP enthusiasts of all levels. Day launch tickets (including parking) cost £12 for non-members, while club membership unlocks year-round access
Paddle past the original 1797 earth dam, glide beneath overhanging oaks, and watch for herons skimming the glassy surface – it’s a world away from city life, yet just 30 minutes from Stoke-on-Trent.
★ Rudyard Lake highlights:
A postcard-perfect escape where paddleboarders share the water with sailing dinghies and the occasional vintage steamboat. The scenic lakeside path (open to walkers and cyclists) leads to hidden picnic spots with views across the water – perfect for post-paddle relaxation.
Wave at passengers aboard the Rudyard Lake Miniature Steam Railway as it puffs along the western shore.
Admission: £12 (day ticket) | Membership: From £50/year (single adult)
Opening Times: Dawn–dusk (club members); 9am–5pm (public)
Amenities: Café, parking, changing rooms, disabled access
12. Worcester and Birmingham Canal
The Worcester & Birmingham Canal offers terrific routes for paddling through quintessentially English landscapes steeped in trade history.
★ Worcester & Birmingham + Stratford Canals Key Features:
100 miles of 18th-century connected canal networks make for idyllic paddleboarding amidst bridges, locks, parks, and canalside pubs.
Built in the late 1700s for transporting goods from the River Severn inland, this lengthy narrow canal features lots of interesting waypoints rolling by as you lightly paddle along.
With multiple access points from central Birmingham through Worcestershire, the highlights include gliding under old rail bridges, spotting elegant narrowboats moored up, and weaving through small hamlets whose pubs back right up to the canal edge!
Speaking of endless canals, did you know that there are more canals in Birmingham than in Venice? Read more exciting Birmingham facts here.
Opening Times: Rental centres open 9am-5pm generally
Paddleboard providers: Cotswolds Water Park (in Worcestershire)
Admission: Rentals around £20-25 for 1-2 hours
13. Walsall: Aldridge SUP School
Aldridge SUP School provides numerous water activities on a scenic, 14-acre lake known by the locals as ’The Swag’ and is a wonderful place for those keen to learn SUP or join a friendly paddle boarding club.
★ Aldridge SUP features:
Friendly Midlands canal hub loved for paddle trips under Victorian aqueducts and through lock cuts carving the landscape. The structured sessions ensure beginners find their balance for £25 a lesson.
The school offers a wide range of services to choose from, whether it’s taking lessons, renting paddle boards, or joining the club.
They have flexible opening hours, with sessions available on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holidays. The school is located next to the Aldridge Sailing Club.
If you’re a newbie, Aldridge SUP is a great choice as it offers both individual and group lessons, and runs an active paddle boarding club. All equipment is provided, including the board, inflatable paddle, and buoyancy aid.
If you’re more experienced and just want to get out onto the water, you can pay a £15 launch fee for the day or become a member for the year for £90 with unlimited visits. Becoming a member has its benefits as you also get a 20% discount off every paddleboard hire and you can enjoy the activity whenever you like.
Aldridge SUP School is equipped with showers, toilets, and food and drinks available on-site.
Admission: £25 per person, per session
Opening Times: Sundays 10am-3pm (closed Mon-Sat)
Amenities: Nearby café, street parking
14. Dudley: Dudley Water Sports Centre Ltd
Dudley Water Sports Centre Ltd is a friendly and approachable place for water sports enthusiasts, including those who are just starting out.
★ Dudley Watersports features:
Embark on exciting watersport courses at this multi-watersport hub on the vast Netherton Reservoir. £10 membership and rental fees let experienced stand up paddlers access quality amenities and adventure.
The club is located at the 14-acre Netherton Reservoir, also known as Lodge Farm Reservoir or simply the ‘Rezza’, in Dudley.
It was originally opened in 1838, and the reservoir has now become a haven for watersports activities like waterskiing, wakeboarding, inflatable rides, and of course paddleboarding in the West Midlands – all of which are on offer at Dudley Water Sports Centre Ltd.
For as little as £15 per person you can book individual or group sessions, while lessons cost £25 each. All equipment is provided, which includes the paddleboard, paddle, wetsuit, and buoyancy aid.
Admission: £10 membership fee to access rentals
Opening Times: Open Wednesdays peak season
Amenities: Onsite restaurant and bar area
Read more: Best Family-Friendly Activities in Wolverhampton
What are the benefits of bringing my own Paddle board and equipment?
#1: If you’re a regular paddleboarder you’ll save a ton of money over time on costly equipment hire, when you have your own gear.
#2: You won’t have to share equipment with other people – saves having to ensure it’s thoroughly cleaned and in good condition beforehand.
➤ Paddleboard kit – Go Outdoors offers some of the best quality paddleboard kits (including pump, chord and paddle) you can get your hands on.
➤ Swimsuit – keeps you dry and protects you from sunburn and chilly winds.
➤ Water shoes – you’ll need these as your feet will get wet (and you won’t want to go barefoot as it’s too cold).
➤ Microfibre towel – for when you finish, lightweight and dries fast.
➤ Dry bag – keep all your equipment dry while you enjoy the activity.
Other Places to go Paddleboarding Near Me
- Tame Valley Canal, Walsall: The Tame Valley Canal offers a picturesque setting that provides a peaceful and serene environment for paddlers to enjoy the beauty of nature and wildlife while exploring the canal on their boards.
- Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal: The Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal is a peaceful and scenic place packed with a variety of wildlife. Walking or cycling this canal is also one of the top things to do in Stoke-on-Trent, England.
Local Paddle Boarding Near Me:
The following are links to useful resources and organisations providing a range of services, tours, SUP lessons, rentals, and more, in the West Midlands region:
Stand up paddleboarding rental near me
Paddle boarding classes near me
Stand up paddleboarding schools near me
Stand up paddleboarding lessons near me
Paddleboarding Tips for Beginners:
Some key beginner tips I’ve learned are:
✦ Stand tall, engage your core, and plant your feet hip-width apart for stability.
✦ Use long, powerful strokes from your torso.
✦ Look ahead, not down, to help balance.
✦ Start on calm waters like Alderford until you’ve got the basics.
✦ Once comfortable, try on a flowing river like the Severn for added challenge.
✦ Low center of gravity and bent knees help control faster currents.
⚠️ First time Paddleboarding? Here’s some Important Advice:
If you’re trying paddleboarding for the first time, be sure to read the following advice before you head out onto the water.
▲ Choosing the Right Paddleboard
Wider boards are more stable for beginners and yoga, while narrow designs are faster but require better balance. Inflatable boards are portable but might lack speed.
Hard boards excel in performance but need proper vehicle transport. When renting or buying, consider your main paddleboarding uses, skill level, transport options, and budget.
▲ Mastering Basic Maneuvers
Practice proper paddling by keeping your torso engaged and rotating from your core, not just arms.
Draw deep strokes for efficiency. Work on balance by standing on one leg then switching. Lean into turns using torso and paddle to steer.
Dismounting properly is key too – squat low, grab the board edge, and push yourself backwards onto your knees.
▲ Reading River Currents
When flows quicken, paddling harder often just tires you out. Instead, learn to work with the current whenever possible.
Scan ahead for any upcoming splits in flow and crossing currents. Position yourself to catch beneficial angles to glide faster with less work.
Practice ferrying across fast currents. Edging and bracing skills help prevent tipping in turbulent water.
▲ Cold Water Precautions
Even during warm West Midlands summers, water can remain dangerously cold year round. Sudden immersion without protection can paralyse muscles and affect breathing.
So wear wetsuits in cooler months and have dry clothes waiting. Stay close to shore and avoid overexertion when first adjusting.
Know signs of hypothermia like shivering and confusion. Gradually acclimate to frigid conditions while carefully monitoring body signals.
▲ Respecting Other Users
Rivers and narrow canals see boats, kayakers and recreational swimmers. Avoid congested sections. Pass others widely and at safe speeds.
Note canal boats may need space in the centre and be unable to stop rapidly. Offer right of way to those going upstream or downriver.
If paddling at night, have ample bright lights. And never enter restricted areas like weirs.
Where can I paddle board in the Midlands?
Popular paddle boarding spots in the Midlands include Chasewater Country Park, Aztec Adventure at Upton Warren, Westport Lake in Stoke-on-Trent, and Cliff Lakes near Tamworth. River locations include the River Severn in Worcester and the River Wye. Always check local regulations and safety guidelines before paddling.
Can I paddle board on the river Avon?
You can paddle board on the River Avon. It offers scenic routes through Warwickshire and Worcestershire. Popular launch points include Stratford-upon-Avon, Evesham, and Tewkesbury. Ensure you have the necessary permits and be aware of river conditions and potential hazards.
Can I take my paddle board anywhere?
While paddle boards are portable, you can’t use them just anywhere. Always check local regulations, as some water bodies require permits or have restrictions. Be mindful of private property, protected areas, and water safety. Research your chosen location before paddling.
Where is the best place to paddleboard in the UK?
The UK offers numerous excellent paddle boarding locations. Popular spots include the Norfolk Broads, Lake Windermere in the Lake District, Loch Lomond in Scotland, and coastal areas like Cornwall and Devon. The best place depends on your skill level and preferences for scenery and water conditions.
