The gentle whisper of cool wind against your skin, the lulling sound of waves meeting the shore; many of us find comfort and glee among the waves. Paddleboarding is the ideal sport for you if you’re someone seeking that naturistic thrill. Paddle Boarding is a past-time that seems to be becoming increasingly popular on UK’s still waters and blissful lochs.
You can get out on your board in the beautiful glens and deep lochs of the Scottish highlands whether you already paddle board or have never tried it. As the UK has so many different water bodies, choosing where to paddle board can be a challenge! Browse this list of beautiful places for Paddleboarding in the UK so you can discover the most beautiful parts of the UK.
- Luss – Loch Lomond
Located on the banks of Loch Lomond, the town of Luss is the most southerly point of interest on our list. During the summer months and even during the winter months, this town is an extremely popular swimming destination. With a stone beach sheltered by trees, this is a great place for setting up your board and getting dressed in your wetsuit. There is a gentle slope into the water at this spot, making it ideal for paddleboarding on Loch Lomond’s calm waters, just 20m from the car park.
- Inveruglas – Loch Lomond
Around mid-way up the western coast of Loch Lomond is a much quieter spot for paddle boarding. A small cafe and visitor centre at Inveruglas is tucked away beneath towering mountains and the impressive Inveruglas Hydro Station. From the visitor centre’s parking lot you can get on your paddleboard right on the floating pontoon, where boats are normally launched. It’s best to either go early in the morning or in the winter months if you wish to enjoy a peaceful standup paddle boarding experience.
- Castle Stalker – Loch Linnhe
One of Scotland’s most picturesque castles can be found south of the northern town of Glencoe, Castle Stalker. Located off the shoreline of Loch Linnhe, this renovated castle ruin is only accessible by boat. Unless you book a private tour, you can simply admire the castle from afar since it is still occupied by residents. If you are driving, you may park at Castle Stalker View Cafe or the Old Inn and walk from there.
- Bridge of Orchy – Loch Tulla
A scenic drive between Bridge of Orchy and Glencoe connects two of Scotland’s smallest towns. The small and tranquil Loch Tulla is situated right by the side of the road on this incredible journey. This picturesque location is surrounded by towering mountains, making it an ideal place to stand up paddleboard. You will soon approach the shores of Loch Tulla after passing through the small village of Bridge of Orchy.
- Eilean Donan Castle – Loch Duich
In Scotland’s far north, the stunning Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed castles in the country. The castle can be reached by paddleboarding from the Eilean Tioram peninsula. The tiny piece of land can be found just beside the nearby bridge to Eilean Donan Castle, where you will find parking and a small boat ramp that leads to the water. There is about 400m to paddle across the water from the car park to the castle, but the view is well worth it.
The scenic surroundings, the sheltered conditions from towering mountains, and the abundance of water (due to the 250 days of rain a year) make the UK the perfect place for standup paddleboarding. With an average sea temperature below 20oC, the water may not be the warmest, but its incredible scenery makes standup paddleboarding in the UK an increasingly popular activity.
