South Western Great Britain houses Wales, one of the most stunning destinations of the UK. Moreover, it is also a paradise for the water people. It implies that Wales presents a remarkable environment for various watersports. You can find multiple places to paddleboard in this country.
Explore the coastal sides to quench your thirst for more paddleboarding experiences. Wales promises to give you the best feeling as you check out the beautiful lakes, rivers, and canals. However, you need to be specific about how to execute your paddleboarding. Besides, the guided tours can help you play the sport more energetically. They also maintain proper safety.
Furthermore, not only Wales, you also have several stand-up paddleboarding spots near London. This blog will tell you about the top places to practice paddleboarding in various regions of the UK.
6 Best Paddleboat Places in Wales
1) Menai Strait
This shallow stretch of tidal water separates Wales from Anglesey Island. The water body stretches for about 16 miles. It can be an ideal spot to begin your paddling session. However, beginners should avoid the Strait’s central part. It often gives rise to Swellies, a strong tidal current. It can be dangerous for non-expert people.
While paddleboarding, you can have picturesque views of notable structures of Wales. Some of them are Britannia Bridge, Plas Newydd House, etc.
2) Bala Lake
This is also one of the top places to paddleboard in Wales.The native name of the place is Llyn Tegid. Any paddleboarder will love the tranquil vastness of this freshwater glacial lake. Not only SUP, but you can also have fun in kayaking or canoeing. River Dee from Snowdonia mountains feeds this lake.
3) Llyn Clywedog
This is not a naturally formed lake. However, the name Llyn Clywedog must be present among the top lakes for paddle boarding. Situated in North Wales, it is a massive concrete dam. Moreover, the 1967-built vast man-made reservoir is a favourite spot for wildlife watchers. The paddleboarding experience cutting through the calm waters gives you glimpses of the marvellous fauna.
There is a vast stretch of forest surrounding the dam. Whenever you need a break, come to this spectacular spot. The sites of tawny owls, red kites, or buzzards will leave you spellbound.
4) Lake Vyrnwy
Make your paddleboarding more enjoyable with the spectacular sights of the Berwyn Mountains and the mighty waterfalls. Moreover, you can park your car near the lake. It is also a favourite nest for peregrine falcons. The excitement does not end here, as you also have the privilege of a boathouse. You can continue the SUP session just by sitting beside it. When the boathouse opens, you can expect a mesmerising paddleboarding after 10 am.
5) The Blue Lagoon
When looking for the best stand-up paddleboarding spots near London, please try The Blue Lagoon. It is in South Wales and does not take much time to reach from the London City. It became highly popular from 2012 after the web series Red Bull Diving World was shot here. However, you may need more freedom to park your vehicles anywhere near the lagoon.
Furthermore, the deep blue body of this lagoon presents a stunning picture. It’s almost like a painting becoming real in front of your eyes. Thus, the paddleboarders enjoy a lot here. Besides, it is a focal point for swimmers and kayakers.
6) Barafundle Bay
Barafundle Bay is undoubtedly one of the notable places to paddleboard on the Welsh Coast. However, you may need to get this bay’s expected sports gear for paddleboarding. Therefore, please come well-equipped to ensure safety during the session.
Strong tidal winds can adversely affect the water conditions. Hence, you must be extra careful while planning to play any water sport at this place. Beginners must be aware of the seasons when the waters of Barafundle Bay remain calm.
# Safety Tips for Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding does not require a lot of skills to enjoy the smooth waters. Moreover, the blue hues will attract you to spend more time on the water body. So, it is better to know the place well before you select it for paddleboarding.
Although there are multiple stand-up paddleboarding spots near London, Wales ranks high in this sport. So, here are some safety tips that you must not ignore.
- Paddle in Calm Waters
Flat and calm waters are best for paddleboarding. Floating waters may cause hurdles while paddling. However, before choosing a SUP location, you must know about its common hazards.
- Possess expertise in swimming
It is essential to know how to swim well when you go paddleboarding. Stand-up paddling can be strenuous if you are not accustomed to standard swimming skills. There is a need to swim back to your board when you are learning the sport. Therefore, basic strokes are crucial during those times.
- Stay Close to the shore
The guide always advises the players to stay closer to the shore. This will eliminate the risks associated with sudden tiredness in the waters. Hence, try to change your directions and be near the shore.
- Consider the weather conditions
Any watersport can be subject to climatic hazards. Therefore, while picking the best places to paddleboard, you must know the weather conditions. If you get anyvibes about weather issues, cancel your plans immediately.
- Wear a Leash all the time
Appropriate is essential for paddleboarding. Please wear a leash always while you are doing sports. Beginners should pay more attention to this as it is the lifeline for any paddleboarder in deep waters. They are not dangerous. Instead, lash can save your life during emergencies. Please learn how to remove your leash when stuck in an unfavourable situation.
- Avoid River Mouths
It is always safe to avoid the river mouths. These are the central points for tidal winds and other adverse effects, and it can be risky to paddleboard in such hazardous circumstances.
# Equipment Rental and Guided Tours
When you are determined to go for paddleboarding, take all the precautions. It is essential to take guided tours, especially if you are a beginner. However, if you need the proper equipment, you can always take them on rent. Several organisations providing guided tours offer such equipment rental facilities at low rates.
The essential gear you will require for safe paddleboarding may include:-
- SUP paddle
- SUP Leash
- Stand-up paddle boat
- Personal Floating Device
- Rescue Whistle, etc.
Conclusion
The lakes of paddle boarding are common primarily on the Welsh Coast. You have the top paddleboarding sites in Wales. Therefore, even staying in London, please travel some miles to pick the best spot for your favourite sport.
Be it The Blue Lagoon, Menai Strait, or other stunning spots, you will have a fantastic and energetic session on the calm waters. However, please take all the precautions and wear proper gear. Safety is of utmost importance for any watersport.
FAQs
Q. Is stand-up paddleboarding suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Ans: Yes. This fabulous water sport is suitable for all, irrespective of their fitness levels or age.
Q. Are there any restrictions on paddleboarding in these areas?
Ans: The restrictions on paddleboarding in the different river networks of Wales are not too great. I recommend going for large canals or river connections for safety. However, certain aqueducts and tunnels may prevent you from paddleboarding.
Q. Can I paddleboard alone, or do I need to join a guided tour?
Ans: Although paddleboarding is more enjoyable in solidarity, guided tours are always safer. However, if you would like to take the sport alone, please inform any of your friends or family members about your whereabouts. This will prevent undesirable situations during emergencies.
