Best places to kayak and canoe

Kayaking in the sea off Middle Beach, Studland, Dorset

From aquamarine seas, meandering rivers and glittering lakes, the places we look after offer exhilarating kayaking and canoeing experiences. You can join a group or hire the boats and kit you'll need for your own adventure. Here's a guide to our top canoeing and kayaking spots.

Canoes and people on Derwent Water beach, Keswick

Derwent Water 

Derwent Water, also known as ‘Queen of the Lakes’ is nestled in the idyllic Borrowdale Valley. You can explore the islands on your own vessel or rent boats from hire centres around the lake.

Explore Derwent Water
Sailing boats on the Fowey

Fowey Estuary 

The wooded creeks of the Fowey Estuary in Cornwall are a beautiful and dramatic place to explore the water.

The view over the Salcombe estuary from the house and garden at Overbeck's, Devon

Salcombe 

Paddle along the Salcombe estuary to discover secret beaches and soaring cliffs. We’ve created a guide that you can download, and you can buy a waterproof version in the local area.

A row of kayaks at Stackpole Quay

Stackpole 

Stackpole is an exceptional landscape and nature reserve on the Pembrokeshire coast. Launch your kayak at Stackpole Quay and paddle along the coast to discover sandy beaches and coves.

Lapwings flying over a misty Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough 

Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland is the largest sea loch in the British Isles. If you’ve got your own kit, you can set off from nearby Castle Ward with the Strangford Lough canoe trail.

A paddleboarder at Studland Beach

Studland Bay 

This famous coastline of Purbeck is famed for its miles of sandy beach. The sea here is perfect for watersports too. Take to the water for terrific views of Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight.

Kayaking on Windermere

Fell Foot 

You can hire kayaks and rowing boats at Fell Foot Park and take in beautiful views as you paddle.

Kayaking at Mullion Cove, Lizard Point and Kynance Cove

Mullion Harbour 

The Lizard in Cornwall is a haven for all kinds of watersports. You can try out kayaking from Mullion Harbour with Lizard Adventure.

Canoeists on the river Wey

River Wey and Godalming Navigations 

An intriguing route of river and canal packed with history in the South East. A current portable Navigations Licence or BCU membership is required.

Paddling down the River Lagan at Minnowburn

Minnowburn 

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Lagan Valley Regional Park in Belfast is to float along the River Lagan in a canoe. Walk from Minnowburn along the tree-lined banks of the river until you reach Shaws Bridge, where you can hire a canoe and continue your journey on the water.

Kayaking at Aberdaron beach, Llyn Peninsula

Aberdaron 

Kayaking in the waters of Aberdardon, a sandy stretch of coast on the Llŷn Peninsula, is truly magical. Peer into the depths of dark blue waters and and bob over gentle waves. Look out for puffins, seals and porpoises.

Nelly's Moss Lake, Cragside in Northumberland

Cragside, Northumberland 

As the world’s first house to be lit by hydroelectricity, Cragside is defined by water. Designed by Victorian inventor Lord Armstrong, the Northumberland estate boasts a rich legacy of lakes and dams flanked by luscious woodland. Go exploring on a kayak, canoe or paddle board.

A close up low angle of paddleboarder on the water

Exmouth 

Paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking are among the exhilarating watersports on offer in Exmouth. Beginners can learn from qualified instructors and equipment can be hired by those confident enough to go it alone. Catch waves and navigate glittering lakes.

Make a splash at Exmouth

Activities at our places

Find your favourite activity or sport at some of our amazing landscapes

Get out and go