The 10 Best Places For Kayaking In The UK

Kayaking is an excellent sport no matter what your mood is. Depending on the location you chose you can totally change the kayaking experience, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline junky experience or just to relax and enjoy the scenery- kayaking will prove to be an excellent sport for you. To help get the most of your kayaking experiences we would highly recommend that you bring along the right kit. Ensure that you are equipped well with the essentials that you will need, including food and drinks, dry robes and even the correct clothing. All of these things will help to make your water sports experiences that much better. We have pulled together a list of the 10 best places in the UK to kayak to experience this summer… 

1. Cornish Coastline

The Cornish coastline provides many beautiful places to kayak and explore. On calm water days it allows you to explore the surroundings and what Cornwall has to offer, and on days where the water is a little more rough, it allows the adrenaline seekers out there to go wild and relish in the excitement of unsteady waters. Just make sure you pack a decent towel for after because you will get very wet!

2. Devon

For a relaxing kayaking session Lopwell Dam provides one of the best kayaking experiences in Devon renowned for its calmer waters. Lopwell Dam is a stunning reserve, bursting with history, be sure to explore the nature and the history of the Dam after your kayaking session.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a thrilling kayaking experience in Devon- look no further than the River Dart. The ancient river tumbles down from the Dartmoor Moors through the river woodland to the sea at Totnes, and its variety. The kayaking ranges from the most challenging waters for advanced kayakers on the Upper Dart, to gentle scenic touring waters down in the tidal waters near the sea.

3. Scotland Lochs

With thousands of miles of coastline, including the magnificent lochs, there is a never-ending supply of places to kayak.

4. The Lake District

Based in Cumbria, Northwest England. The Lake District is a very popular canoeing and kayaking destination, this is due to the spectacular scenery that surrounds the lakes. Kayaking On lakes however can come with some restrictions and you may require permission or a permit. You can take a closer look at where you can and can not kayak in The Lake District here.

5. Salcombe

Salcombe is a popular resort town in the South Hams district of Devon, South West England. Salcombe great for all kayaking abilities with rock gardens, gulleys, caves, coves, wildlife and secluded beaches to enjoy

6. Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire is a canal based in the Southwest of Wales. It is bordered by Carmarthenshire to the east, Ceredigion to the northeast, and the sea everywhere else. When kayaking on canals, you need to make sure you check the tide times, as all of the Pembrokeshire is tidal. Keep your eyes open as you can see otters, herons, kites and buzzards in this area.

7. Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is the largest inlet lough in all of the UK, and the location is ideal for Sea kayaking. You can enjoy views of the stunning coastline and also on a good day could even spot a few seals on your travel.

8. Dorset Jurassic coast

A beautiful place with a lot of history. The great thing about the Jurassic Coast is the magnitude of places you can enter the water. Our favourite has to be Durdle Door; a stunning sea arch that simply cannot be missed!

9. Studland bay

Studland bay is a vast area of sandy beaches and heathland with views of Old Harry Rocks. The sheltered waters of Studland Bay are ideal for watersports, including swimming, sailing, kayaking, kite surfing and diving.

10 .  River Wey

The River Wey is a very beginner-friendly kayaking course with only a couple of sections of minor rapids throughout its length. It has over 100 miles of navigable water, which is extremely popular for multi-day trips.

Find your local kayak school

If you're looking to hit the water this summer and want to receive the best tuition. Or perhaps you're looking for locations closer to home visit Go Canoeing to find a host of kayaking providers and clubs across the country.