Living in London can sometimes make you feel disconnected from nature, with the city’s hustle and bustle dominating your surroundings. However, the capital’s proximity to stunning natural spots and its location along the River Thames offers excellent opportunities to reconnect with the outdoors through paddleboarding.
Whether you’re looking for easy-to-reach locations or are willing to travel a bit further for a serene experience, there are several fantastic spots near London where you can enjoy paddle boarding. Here are seven top recommendations:
Richmond
Richmond is a wonderful starting point for exploring the River Thames, which flows through much of London. Despite being close to the city, Richmond offers a peaceful, picturesque setting that’s perfect for paddleboarding. You can easily reach Richmond by train from Waterloo in about 20 minutes. Launch your paddle board at Richmond Bridge and head upstream towards Teddington or downstream towards Kew to enjoy a calming escape from daily life.
Wargrave
For a more rural experience, head to Wargrave in Berkshire, just a short distance from Reading. This charming village offers a delightful setting for paddleboarding. You can park in the village center and launch your paddleboard at the Ferry Lane slipway. Paddle north towards Henley-on-Thames and, after your session, unwind at the St George & Dragon pub conveniently located by the river.
Regent’s Canal
Explore London from a unique perspective by paddling along Regent’s Canal, which stretches 14 kilometers across the north of the city. The canal is popular with narrowboats, so be mindful of traffic and stick to the right-hand side. The stretch between Camden and Little Venice is particularly scenic and lock-free, making it an enjoyable route. Remember, a waterways license is required to paddle here, which you can obtain from the Canal & River Trust.
Brentford Lock
If you’re new to paddleboarding or prefer a more relaxed environment, Brentford Lock is an ideal spot. The calm waters here are perfect for practicing your skills. Late spring and summer offer the best conditions, with beautiful river views at sunset adding to the experience.
Brighton
For those longing for a seaside paddleboarding adventure, Brighton is just a short train ride away. Spend a day at the beach and explore the waters with your paddleboard. Head to Palace Pier for a stunning route along the seafront to the West Pier. Visiting early in the morning can help you avoid crowds and enjoy clearer waters.
Chipstead Lake
Located in Kent, Chipstead Lake offers a great outdoor experience not far from London. The lake can get busy with various activities, but there is ample space for paddleboarding. It’s a good spot for building confidence on your board while staying close to the shore. Be sure to familiarize yourself with lake safety guidelines before setting out.
Godalming Navigation
For a historic paddleboarding adventure, visit the River Wey in Surrey. Launch your paddleboard from Godalming Navigation and head towards Weybridge, where the river meets the Thames. This route offers a picturesque journey through the Surrey Hills, complete with charming cottages and historic locks.
These spots offer diverse experiences for paddleboarding enthusiasts, from tranquil lakes to bustling city canals. Enjoy your paddleboarding adventures and embrace the serenity of nature just beyond London!
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Tags: Paddleboarding