With the warmer months just around the corner we can’t wait to get back out on the water. Surrey and West Sussex’s varied shoreline and rivers present opportunities for a calm paddle, an adrenaline-fuelled surf SUP and everything in between! Exploring by water allows you to slow down, re-energise and enjoy nature at its best. There are some fantastic spots to paddleboard and all easily accessible from London. Below are a few of our favourite spots:
West Wittering Beach, West Sussex Offering a blue flag awarded sandy beach and in the summer months the water is beautifully warm which is perfect for an accidental dip. Once you are out on the water there is a lovely trip you can make up to the pebbled beach of East Wittering (which also brings in some good waves if you fancy some paddleboard surfing).
Facilities: Car park (pre-booking essential) and café Hire: Tuition and hire are available directly on the beach from 2XS Travel time from London: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
River Wey, Surrey Spend the day paddleboarding one of the most beautiful stretches of the River Wey, a green corridor running through the Surrey countryside and just a stone’s throw from London. Our favourite trip is to paddle from Godalming to Guildford, passing through spectacular countryside and navigating locks. Finish in Guildford for a delicious lunch riverside.
Facilities at Godalming Wharf: Car park, nearby cafes Hire: ROAR Outdoor, based at Godalming Wharf offers both guiding and kit hire. Travel time from London: Approximately 45 minutes
Bracklesham Bay, West Sussex A predominantly shingle beach, which becomes sandier towards the water’s edge. This beach offers it all! Depending on the sea and winds there is the option to flat water paddle from Bracklesham and head east towards Selsey or head west towards Chichester Harbour. Or enjoy some SUP surfing, during the non-summer months the beach can get some pretty good waves for all levels of paddler.
Facilities: Pay & Display car park, Billy’s On The Beach (beach café also offering takeaway and the most incredible ‘monster’ hot chocolate) Hire: Available locally in Bracklesham Travel time from London: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Whether you are keen for a casual paddle along the coast or opting for a longer paddle down river here are a few of our top tips for keeping safe out on the water.
Partner up out on the water or tell a friend where you are going.
Leash up – given that your board is your most buoyant piece of equipment, staying with it is important.
Wear a buoyancy aid – keeps you safe but also warm.
Know the weather and tides.
Exploring by water allows you to slow down, re-energise and enjoy nature at its best. See you on the water!