10 Best Places For Kayaking In Woodlands, United Kingdom - Updated 2024

kayaking in the woodlands
Amruta
Amruta 
Updated
| 5 min read

Kayaking is an ancient means of traveling and one of the oldest forms of travel and transportation from one place to another. Kayaking was invented by the Inuit in the Arctic Circle who used boats covered with animal skins. Kayaking is an exciting and intriguing activity that gives us insight into how our forefathers commuted during ancient times with the help of balance, coordination, and self-confidence. Some of the waterways in the UK are also suited to kayaking and canoeing. The country has a lot of options that range from whitewater descents to calm and lazy touring through rivers, lakes, canals, and sea. Here are some of the best places for kayaking in Woodlands, United Kingdom, for a crazy, fun, and adventurous day with friends and family.

1. Derwent Water, Lake District

Lake District - Derwent Water
Source: Pixabay

Derwent Water is one of the most scenic lakes in the Lake District of the United Kingdom. Derwent Water Lake is surrounded by wooded hills and mountains which create a picturesque backdrop that mesmerizes tourists and visitors.

The lake also consists of several islands. One of the islands is home to an 18th-century residence, which is known as Derwent Island House and is tenanted by the National Trust. It is open five days a week to visitors. Furthermore, there are many businesses here where you can rent a kayak by the hour, join a fun group session, a one on one lesson, or a paddle club.

Derwent Water Lake

Address: Portinscale, Keswick CA12 5RF, United Kingdom

Website: Derwent Water Lake

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2. Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard Peninsula is found at the southernmost tip of the United Kingdom. This region is known for its stunning and mesmerizing natural beauty. The contrasting elements which range from coves to hidden bays and caves give you the thrill of exploring different regions while you kayak through the emerald green waters of the peninsula.

There are many establishments that rent kayaks here or offer lessons to tourists in and around the region. Visitors with special needs can also be part of the kayaking excursions and other fun activities.

The Lizard Peninsula

Address: S W Coast Path, Lizard, Helston TR12 7NT, United Kingdom

Website: The Lizard Peninsula

Tip from Content Creator

Lizard Peninsula Lizard Peninsula Lizard Peninsula

Photos of Lizard Peninsula shared by content creator from the United Kingdom, Ben.

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3. Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond, Scotland, UK
Source: Unsplash

Loch Lomond is yet another scenic lake, this time in the south of Scotland. This lake falls in the jurisdiction of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. It is surrounded by hills and mountains that are covered with oak woodlands and it is home to red deer.

With 30 islands to explore, a scenic location, and many adventure clubs that promote and teach water sports, like kayaking and canoeing, a day packed with fun and adventure awaits you at Loch Lomond Lake.

Loch Lomond

Address: 20 Carrochan Rd, Balloch, Alexandria G83 8EG, United Kingdom

Website: Loch Lomond

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4. Tees River


The Tees River provides an excellent location for white water kayaking. The river emerges from the eastern slopes of Cross Fell in the Pennies region, flows eastwards through Tees Valley, and merges into the North Sea. The river has great water for novices, as well as experienced kayakers. The portions from High Surf in Middleton to Low Surf at Wynch Bridge and from Barnard Castle to Winston are popular among paddlers and kayakers. There are many kayak rental spots in and around Teesdale.

Tees River

Address: Teesdale, Barnard Castle DL12 0NJ, UK

Website: Tees River

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5. River Fal


The River Fal begins in Pentevale on Goss Moor and travels through Cornwall before dispersing into the English Chanel at Falmouth. There are many entry spots near the high tide ends of the river, like Malpas and Ruan Lanihorne. The river flows through charming wooded areas that wind through the steep hills.

You can also enjoy some sea kayaking at Falmouth Harbor, but you need to be careful regarding the large cargo ships and ferries. Several organizations in Cornwall and Falmouth provide kayaking equipment to interested tourists.

River Fal

Address: Churchtown, Falmouth TR11 5UF, United Kingdom

Website: River Fal

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6. Loch Ness

Loch Ness
Source: Unsplash

Loch Ness is a magnificent and deep freshwater lake in Scotland. It is located in the Scottish Highlands and is the second largest and deepest lake in the United Kingdom. You can also explore Cherry Island, which is the only island on the lake. Due to the size of this huge water body, Loch Ness can be quite dangerous on a windy day. Hence it is recommended to hire a guide or instructor if you are a novice at kayaking. You can approach many local companies that rent kayaks or provide lessons for beginners.

Loch Ness

Address: A82, Inverness IV63 6XR, United Kingdom

Website: Loch Ness

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7. Thames River

London Bridge
Source: Pixabay

The Thames River is undoubtedly one of the most famous rivers in England. The river has its source in Gloucestershire and flows through cities like Oxford, London, and Windsor. The river is also popular among canoeists and kayakers, as it gives them an opportunity to kayak in both freshwater and saltwater.

The tidal section offers the best whitewater, while the region above Teddington Lock in London has a series of weirs that control the flow of water and is excellent for freshwater kayaking. For kayaking above Teddington Lock, you may need special permit from the Environment Agency.

Thames River

Address: Teddington TW11 9NG, United Kingdom

Website: Thames River

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8. Loch Awe

Boat & Pier
Source: Pixabay

Loch Awe is a large freshwater lake in Bute and Argyll in the Scottish Highlands. It has two distinct islands that are known as Innis Chonnell and Inishail. Loch Awe is home to Kilchurn Castle, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. You can also find several remains of castles in and around the islands of Loch Awe.

Furthermore, the lake is a great spot for fishing, camping, kayaking, and wildlife and birdwatching when the water is not turbulent and windy. There are toilets, refreshments, showers, and fishing permits available near the shore for tourists.

Loch Awe

Address: Inveraray Road, Dalmally PA33 1AF, United Kingdom

Website: Loch Awe

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9. Lee Valley White Water Centre

Whitewater kayaking
Source: Unsplash

Lee Valley White Water Centre was built to host canoe events at the London Olympics in 2012. Today, the center offers various courses in beginners, intermediate, and advanced kayaking and canoeing. They offer offsite kayaking expeditions in natural lakes and rivers where their instructors accompany you. Apart from kayaking, you can enjoy other fun and family-friendly activities here, like rafting, tubing, karting, hydrospeeding, and much more.

Lee Valley White Water Centre

Address: Station Rd, Waltham Cross EN9 1AB, United Kingdom

Website: Lee Valley White Water Centre

Opening hours: Wed - Thur: 8am - 9pm; Fri - Mon: 8am - 8pm

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10. Combe Martin


Combe Martin is a small seaside village on the North Devon coast in the United Kingdom. It is lies at a distance of 4 miles (6.4 km) away from the east side of Ilfracombe. The bay region offers a picturesque and dramatic coastline, which is full of secluded shores, inlets, and coves. The bay provides an excellent spot for inexperienced kayakers, while Foreland Point, Ilfracombe, Lee Bay, Morte Point, and Lynmouth are ideal for experienced paddlers.

Furthermore, here you can find ample parking near the beach, plenty of cafes, kayak shops, and stores for all your equipment and supplies.

Combe Martin

Address: Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, United Kingdom

Website: Combe Martin

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For a safe and unforgettable experience

When kayaking in an unknown location, it is always better to hire a guide or an instructor. Many above stated locations have businesses that not only rent kayaks, but also provide lessons, guides, and instructors. You don’t need to have any prior experience in kayaking to use these services. Also, it is good to make sure that you don’t need any permits or permissions before you set out on your expeditions.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Amruta, a literature graduate with an adventurous spirit, is dedicated to sharing joy through her writing. When she's not engaged in work or exploring new destinations, she can often be found...Read more

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