While London might not be the most exotic place that comes to mind when looking for your next SUP spot, there’s plenty of awesome paddle opportunities.
There’s something to suit virtually all tastes. And there’s a pretty active SUP community in London too, so you’re sure to come across other paddlers on the rare occasion we get a hot sunny day here in the UK!
So if you’re looking to hit the Thames and canals with your Cruise but aren’t sure where to go, here are a few ideas to get you started.
Paddington Basin
A great spot for beginners who want to take it easy. The calm, flat waters of Paddington Basin are super easy to get to as they’re pretty central. Plus there are miles upon miles of canals to explore too.
And when you fancy taking a break, there’s a variety of pubs and bears nearby for a well-deserved drink.
Richmond’s River Lane
Most people instantly think of the crazy hustle and bustle of inner city life when coming to London. But Richmond offers a stunning alternative with plenty of greenery and calm waters to enjoy.
Definitely one of the more scenic SUP spots London has to offer, this part of Richmond is perfect for gorgeous views and gently paddling the day away. And the calmness of the water makes this a great spot to SUP with your pooch too.
Kew Bridge
One of the most popular SUP spots throughout London, Kew Bridge is ideal for slightly more ambitious paddlers (tide depending!).
It’s recommended to head toward Richmond or Hammersmith, where you’ll paddle past gorgeous views of West London as you go. And, like most of this city’s spots, there’s plenty of riverside pubs to enjoy. Many local businesses around here also offer discounts to paddlers – if that’s not an incentive, we don’t know what is!
Putney Bridge
Did you know Putney Bridge is the starting point for the annual Oxford and Cambridge boat race? This makes it a great spot to enjoy some paddling, and you’ll probably run into a lot of other SUP fans as it’s a super popular spot.
If you paddle east, you’ll eventually reach Battersea Park – the perfect place for a pit stop to enjoy one of London’s greener areas.
Brentford Lock
Our top pick for families or anyone totally new to paddle boarding. Brentford Lock is calm and quiet, providing the perfect balance of a leisurely atmosphere and gorgeous views.
You can easily get here as it’s located only moments away from where the Grand Union Canal and River Brent meet. And with plenty of shops, restaurants, and unique buildings to explore on your travels, Brentford Lock is a great spot for a full day out SUPing with the family.
And there you have it. A few of today’s top SUP spots throughout London to explore. Whether you’re new to paddling or a seasoned expert, you’re sure to enjoy a fun day out in our nation’s capital – provided the weather is on your side!
To learn more about which board is best for your next SUP trip, get the lowdown with our handy guide.