Best places to go kayaking and canoeing

Two adults kayaking at Studland Bay with white cliffs behind them — Kayaking at Studland Bay, Dorset | © National Trust Images/Ben Selway

From open seas to rivers and peaceful lakes, there's lots of places in our care where you can go kayaking and canoeing. If you're looking to join a group, or hire equipment for your own adventure, check out the best places to go kayaking and canoeing.

Brownsea Island, Dorset: If you're camping at Brownsea Island, you can try out paddleboarding or kayaking as part of your stay. Or, if you've got your own boat, kayak or paddleboard, you can explore the island and land along the South Shore.Visit Brownsea
Fell Foot, Lake District: With easy lake access, the park is ideal for paddling and boating. You can hire kayaks and rowing boats at Fell Foot Park and take in the views as you paddle.Visit Fell Foot
Fowey Estuary, Cornwall: Canoeing along the wooded creeks of the Fowey Estuary in Cornwall is a great way to explore the water. There are lots of places to launch your own canoe, or you can hire equipment and join a guided trip. If you take your time, you might spot wildlife such as kingfishers, otters and dolphins.Visit Fowey Estuary
Houghton Mill, Cambridgeshire: Head out for a paddle along the River Great Ouse and its tributaries around Houghton Mill. Canoe through picturesque meadows to the historic town of St Ives.Visit Houghton Mill

Canoeing in spring on Lake Windermere at Fell Foot, Cumbria — Hire a canoe at Fell Foot, Cumbria | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Minnowburn, County Down: One of the best ways to experience Lagan Valley Regional Park is to float along the river in a canoe. Walk from Minnowburn along the tree-lined banks of the river until you reach Shaw's Bridge, where you can hire a canoe and continue your journey on the water.Visit Minnowburn
Mullion Harbour, Cornwall: The Lizard in Cornwall is a haven for all kinds of watersports. You can try out kayaking from Mullion Harbour with Lizard Adventure.Visit Lizard Point
River Wey and Godalming Navigations, Surrey: Explore this route along the river and canal at River Wey and Godalming Navigations. To complete this three-hour canoe trail, you need a current portable Navigations Licence or BCU membership.Visit River Wey and Godalming Navigations
Salcombe Estuary, East Soar: Paddle along the estuary to discover secret beaches and soaring cliffs. Book a taster or day trip and explore hidden coves, shipwrecks and a shore teeming with wildlife – all without ever having to leave your canoe.Visit the Salcombe Estuary

A kayaking session at Stackpole in Wales — Kayaking at Stackpole, Wales | © National Trust Images / Chris Lacey

Stackpole, Pembrokeshire: Explore Stackpole by kayak to take in the landscape and nature reserve at your leisure. Launch your kayak at Stackpole Quay and paddle along the coast to discover sandy beaches and coves.Visit Stackpole
Strangford Lough, County Fermanagh: The waters of Strangford Lough provide many different landscapes for canoeists and kayakers to enjoy. Explore the largest sea lough in the British Isles to soak up unique views, spot marine wildlife and see the many islands dotted along this part of the coast.Visit Strangford Lough
Studland Bay, Dorset: This famous coastline of Purbeck is known for its miles of sandy beach, and the sea here is great for watersports too. Take to the water for views of Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight.Visit Studland Bay

Cyclists stopping to take in the view at Clent Hills, Worcestershire

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Visitors kayaking on the sea past the Old Harry Rocks, Purbeck Countryside, Dorset

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Staying safe while canoeing

While canoeing and kayaking are great ways to experience nature and keep fit, they can be dangerous if you don't follow the guidelines. Learn how to stay safe with our advice and guidance.