WINTER SUP SPOTS
Winter can provide some awesome opportunities to get out on the water. Okay, it’s not as frequent as summer due to the weather but we do get those awesome winter days; Imagine, that low winter sun, crisp blue sky mornings, with only a breath of wind… You get to see and commune with nature in a very different aspect to summer. There is a quietness and stillness about it that is just awesome. A well-earned post-SUP pub lunch next to a roaring fire… the stuff of dreams!
Back down to earth… Clearly, it being winter there are some things to take note of… Let’s start with the obvious… If you are in the UK or anywhere in northern Europe. Its cold!! The water is cold and the air is probably cold too. So, if you fall in the water its double whammy. Cold in the water and then when you get out, combine wind chill on top of being wet, now you’re really cold. Hyperthermia is a very real issue. Your body will lose its warmth very quickly when you are wet, so wearing the appropriate kit is super important.
Personally, for winter SUP I’m in a full winter wetsuit probably a 5/4mm suite. If there is any kind of cold breeze it will make its way through the suit, and you will find yourself getting cold. So, I also wear a wind proof over the top of that and then a buoyancy aid on top of that.
Check out the example windproof / spray top below, there are loads of different brands that make their own versions of these, including a full length suit.
Many folks subscribe to the fold away PFD (Personal Floatation Device) that fits into a kind of bum-bag… these are great, but personally I’m all about minimising risk and wear a full buoyancy aid over the top of my windproof particularly in winter. Not only is it already deployed if I fall in and get in to trouble, it also acts as an extra layer of warmth.
A woolly hat, if you are in calm waters keeps you head (and ears) warm. You can also get a neoprene hat if that works for you. Probably more of an option if you are SUP surfing or in more lively water where that chances of actually being in the water are greater. I’m not a massive fan of the Neoprene hat if I can help it. When it covers my ears I find my hearing is really restricted….
Neoprene Booties are a must as well – your feet will definitely get wet, so worth getting some of these if you haven’t already. Nothing too tight. When you are paddling your feet stay pretty still so anything that will slow your circulation down can mean your feet get cold any way and/or get pins a needles due to restricted blood flow.
Neoprene gloves are also a good accessory if its super cold.
The gloves below are great, they keep the wind chill off but the palms are still open so you get good direct feeling on the paddle.
There are loads of options in terms of brands for kit. Go chat to your local club or any of the businesses we’ve surfaced in this blog and they will direct you to great equipment from hard earned experience.
Let’s take a moment to talk about water conditions. I can’t emphasis enough how important it is to make an assessment of the water conditions and the geography of the area you’re going to paddle in.
From a river perspective how fast is the current? Winter in the UK normally means more rain which can put a river into flood conditions. Personally, I would not get in/on a river in flood conditions, the current is too fast which makes it super dangerous even if you are wearing all of the right kit.
Due to the higher water level, there is also the very likely possibility of submerged hazards to contend with, lurking just under the surface of the water. Examples: Branches, fence posts wooden and metal, barbed wire! ARGGHHH! Old rope, etc, etc.
Choice of leash is very important. There have been some very unfortunate and well documented cases of accidents happening with trailing leashes being used on river paddle sessions getting tangled around things… not cool. Imagine; you fall in, you go one way around an obstacle (buoy, tree stump, mooring post, etc) with the current and the board goes the other way. Even with a slow current, it is almost impossible to reach your ankle leash to release it leaving you trapped in flowing water. Waist leashes are a good choice particularly for River paddlers, they have a quick release strap that you can reach to unfasten no matter how quick the current is flowing.
Wherever you are launching, make sure you have a plan for getting out. Riverbanks, lakesides and beaches may look innocuous but put yourself in the position of being in or on the water. How do you get out? Even with a 1ft river bank or lake side, it would be difficult to get out, once you are in and at water level.
This might feel bit like doom-scrolling but seriously, if you have prepared for things going wrong, it very likely won’t happen and you can get on with enjoying yourself.
So, on that note here is a more formal list of things to check:
A great resource to help you paddle safely and responsibly is the https://www.bsupa.org.uk/2021/08/11/sup-safety/ website. We suggest that all new paddlers read and familiarise themselves with the information provided. Even if you are experienced paddler, winter can be a whole different ball game re- read the guidance and make sure you are being safe!
Wear a buoyancy aid if you are canoeing, kayaking or paddleboarding
No matter how experienced you think you are in the water, falling in can present many dangers to those who are taking part in paddlesports and a buoyancy aid will always help to keep you safer! If you are stand-up paddleboarding, you should also wear a tether or leash too. Depending on the type of paddle boarding and perhaps most importantly the destination you will be paddling (Sea, River, lake) will change the recommendation on the type of leash used. Flowing water can present hazards for an ankle leash, and it may be preferable to use a waist leash instead. A waist leash is one that attaches to a belt around your waist rather than the ankle. Make sure you chat to your local club and or equipment supplier, talk to them about where you are likely to go paddling and follow their advice in terms of safety. Personally, we have both types of leash in our equipment bag. On rivers particularly where there is a current, we use a waste leash.
If you are paddling on a river stick to the right-hand side at all times unless it is unsafe to do so
River traffic is always required to stay to the right-hand side of the channel (unless it is unsafe to do so) and paddle craft are no exceptions to this. If you are being overtaken on the left, please ensure you stay right until the vessel has passed. Please do not congregate in the middle of the channel, particularly if you are in a group. Sailing craft may tack (zig-zag) across the river, please be aware of their movements and give them adequate space to manoeuvre safely.
Ensure you maintain lookout and are aware of your surroundings
Keep an eye out for other water users, such as larger powered and sailing craft, and make sure that you are aware of any potential hazards approaching.
Anticipate other water users
Think ahead to whether boats are going to be mooring up, turning round or tacking across your path (if they are sailing craft). If they are, try and give them space to do this safely. It is wise to anticipate how other water users are going to behave as paddle craft are often less manoeuvrable than larger vessels.
Capsizing or entering the water
Do not deliberately capsize your canoe or kayak. If you have capsized and are not able to get back into your vessel you should try to remain calm, stay with your vessel, move over to shore and take a moment to recover. Techniques for recovering from capsize or entering the water can be or learned at a paddle school.
Be aware of your own stamina and ability
Paddle sports can be tiring and those taking part should be aware of their own ability. If you fall in the water, consider whether you will have enough energy to get yourself back onto your craft safely. If you are inexperienced and feel as if you will fall into the water frequently, consider avoiding busy stretches of the river.
Water-borne diseases
There are a number of risks from water-borne diseases. These differ between salt water and fresh water.
A blue-green coloured scum on the water can indicate the presence of toxic bacteria in the water. Do not paddle in areas where this is present and avoid coming into contact with or ingesting it as it can lead to a number of unpleasant symptoms.
Weil's disease (also known as Leptospirosis) is a rare form of a bacterial infection that is carried by animals such as rats and cattle. It can be caught by humans through contact with animal urine through contaminated fresh water. You can reduce the chance of contracting the infection by covering open wounds, minimising the swallowing of water, showering soon after swimming or if you have fallen in, and washing your hands before eating or drinking.
A big one for rivers and beaches are drains and overflows. You can see where storm overflows discharge untreated sewage into rivers and on to beaches on the Rivers Trust's Sewage Map. Our advice is to avoid entering the water in these locations if we have recently experienced heavy rain. When heavy rain occurs, sewers can discharge directly into rivers, increasing the possibility of infection or disease if you enter the water in these areas.
If you have recently taken part in paddle sports and do not feel well please seek urgent medical advice.
Check permissions, know where you are going and tell others of your plan
It is helpful to plan your route so that you know how far you are going and to avoid trespassing on privately-owned stretches of water. Whilst most areas are publicly accessible, some areas (such as dykes and ditches) are privately-owned and do not have a public right of way. There will usually be signage advising you of this. It is also sensible for paddle craft to avoid busy stretches of the river and seek out quieter areas as it will be safer (and considerably more peaceful).
It always makes things safer if you go out as a group with others. However if you do go solo (not recommended) remember to tell friends or family where you are going and how long you plan to be out in case you get into difficulty. Knowing the names of locations or GPS coordinates (available in the Buccaneer location guide) will help the emergency services locate you in the event of emergency.
Look at the weather conditions
Weather conditions can change quickly and many areas on the water are very exposed to the elements. Consider factors such as wind speed, wind direction, forecasted rain and storm conditions before you go out. You may find that you are struggling to paddle back or turn around if the wind direction is not favourable.
In case of emergency
In case of emergency on, in or next to the water you should always contact 999 and ask for the coastguard. They will contact the other emergency services if needed. Try and ensure you know your location so you can provide this information to the operator and improve their response time.
HOW DOES THE BUCCANEER APP FIT IN TO ALL OF THIS?
Community-Crafted Experience:
Buccaneer Sessions is more than just an app, it’s a platform for a thriving community created and managed by genuine enthusiasts who live and breathe the outdoors; surfing, kiting, winging, paddling, mountain biking, wellbeing, climbing and more. No faceless corporations here – just real people sharing their passion not for just being active, outside and living well!
Connect with Your Playground:
Explore a vast array of outdoor activities, from surfing and SUP to wild swimming, climbing, and beyond.
The Buccaneer Sessions app seamlessly connects you with the vibrant stakeholder community that supports these exhilarating adventures.
Cool Location Guide – GPS Co-ordinates links to tide, wind and Weather
Connection to local businesses offering services: gear, guiding and instruction
Link to groups and clubs
Join the Collective and Make Your Mark:
Become a part of the action! Join our collective, contribute to location data updates, and earn credits recognised by name. Your participation adds immense value to the app and the entire community.
Some great spots for your next adventure, in no particular order…
(All linked in the app so if you open this page on your phone and you have the app installed the link will open in the app – favourite the ones you like to start your Buccaneer journey)
Beadnell Bay
Beadnell Bay is a broad, sandy beach set within a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay, located just south of the village of Beadnell. The sandy beach curves to form a natural harbour, while grassy sand dunes lie behind the beach, with fields stretching beyond. The gently sloping sandy beach can result in a long distance to the sea at low tide.
Beadnell is a popular destination for holidaymakers. The beach is a hotspot for swimming and an array of watersports, including surfing, sailing, paddle boarding, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The village features a sailing club and shops offering water sports equipment for sale or rent. For the more adventurous, the area also provides opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Kiters - The Beach covers a large range of wind directions, and its shallow shelving beach means there's usually some flat water between the waves. Whilst the beach is generally sandy and hazard free, there are a few reefs at low tide and a rocky spit close to the harbour. The shifting sands quite often uncovers some patches of rocks close to the high tide line too.
On spring high tides the sands are very narrow hence can be nigh on impossible to launch, so is best avoiding in these conditions.
For visitors, there is a pay-and-display car park at the northern end of the beach, complete with public toilets and beach access via a slipway.
Uniquely, Beadnell village boasts the only west-facing harbour along England’s east coast. From here, private boats can sail to the nearby Farne Islands, a haven for puffins, terns, seals, and other wildlife. The village also offers a selection of dining options, including a 15th-century pub and a village shop.
Culham Lock (River Thames)
Great car park with easy access to the river. Easy launch facilities from the riverbank.
Upstream will take you to Abingdon centre.
Down stream, a lovely paddle through quiet Oxfordshire countryside.
The Thames path running alongside the river, offers a good walk for spectators/ none paddlers.
Campbeltown, Dalintober beach
Nestled on the picturesque Kintyre peninsula, the peaceful town of Campbeltown is one of Argyll's larger towns. Delintober Beach is set in a deep bay protected by Davaar Island and surrounding hills.
The beach itself is a modest in size of roughly 500 feet across, features stunning golden sands that stretch along a short but charming shoreline. Its perfect for paddle boarding and wild swimming, picnics, and soaking in its calm, unspoiled ambiance. Unlike larger, more commercialized beaches, Dalintober Beach offers limited facilities. Visitors should note there are no lifeguards, restroom facilities, or concessions available, perfect for those seeking a wilder, quieter experience.
Parking can be a challenge, as there is no dedicated parking for Dalintober Beach. Visitors will need to rely on nearby street parking, which is typically free but may require a short walk to reach the beach. Despite these minor inconveniences, Dalintober Beach remains a delightful hidden gem.
Visitors should also note dogs are not permitted on the beach.
Kingsbridge
The Kingsbridge Estuary, situated in South Devon, stretches from Kingsbridge to Salcombe and East Portlemouth, eventually flowing into the English Channel. Spanning approximately 8.6 kilometers, the estuary features several side channels and creeks, including those at Frogmore, Southpool, Batson, and Bowcombe.
Bowcombe Creek, the northernmost creek in the estuary, is easily accessible from Kingsbridge.
River Chelmer and Blackwater Estuary
Maldon, located on the stunning Blackwater Estuary offers a wide range of watersports from sailing, stand up paddle, rafting, kayaking, rowing, canoeing and more. Explore the Blackwater and the Crouch Estuaries, and enjoy the tranquillity of the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation Canal.
Paddleboarders (and other watercraft) on the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation require a licence you can buy online here from waterways.org.uk, or from the kiosk at Heybridge Basin.
Purchasing your licence helps Essex Waterways maintain and keep the canal open for everyone to use.
If canoeing or kayaking on our tidal estuaries, please take care and be mindful of other river users.
Horning - River Bure
The River Bure is the longest of the rivers on the Broads and is navigable from Bure Mouth at Great Yarmouth to Horstead Mill, just beyond Coltishall.
Canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding have become increasingly popular on the Broads. Not only do these activities provide a fantastic way to enjoy the stunning scenery, but also enable access to the more tranquil, secluded backwaters where boats just cant get to.
Please note: All canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (including inflatables) that are used in the Broads navigation area or adjacent waters are required to have either an annual or short visit toll. Please visit https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/boating/owning-a-boat/tolls for details.
Mawddach Estuary, Barmouth Harbour, North Wales
The Mawddach Estuary is where the River Mawddach meets the sea and forms a stunning wide sandy estuary. At the mouth of the Estuary is the town of Barmouth
Barmouth has masses of flat water and stunning scenery. This spot has a strong tide so make sure you know what’s happening before you go out of the water.
Home to the Mawddach SUP Cruise
Embark on a one-way cruise of the breathtaking Mawddach Estuary. This incredible journey, powered by the tide and/or wind, was featured in Red Bull's top 10 UK paddleboard adventures to experience!
The cruise begins or ends at either the George III, located next to the toll bridge at Penmaenpool, or The Last Inn in Barmouth. At the end of your adventure, relax with a well-deserved drink by the water before being transported back to your starting point. (if you are not on an organised tour you will ned to arrange your own Transport back (Checkout https://www.supbarmouth.co.uk/ these guys run an organised tour, where you will be in safe hands!!)
Bray Lake
Bray Lake Watersports offers a variety of ways to get on the water with courses and tuition, private coaching sessions, weekly club SUP sessions, equipment hire, own equipment launch and river trips.
Open seven days a week throughout the year, the 50 acre lake is surrounded by a mixture of grassy banks and a mature tree line. A pine log clubhouse provides comfortable and enjoyable facilities, including a dedicated water sports shop and café - perfect whatever the weather.
Bewl Water
Bewl Water is a reservoir in the valley of the River Bewl, straddling the boundary between Kent and East Sussex in England. It is about 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Lamberhurst, Kent.
Many recreational activities take place on and around the reservoir. These include SUP, sailing and windsurfing , rowing and sculling Canoeing and Kayaking trout fishing, walking and cycling (on a 121⁄2 mile Round Reservoir Route)
Hayling island
Hugely popular watersports location famous for kitesurfing, windsurfing and Wing foiling. Perhaps a little less well known is that it is also a great paddle spot.
Most stand up paddlers launch from West Beachlands on the sea front. Get the tide right and this is where you’ll have access to an epic sup surf opportunity with a wave that forms on a sandbar on the west side of the beach. There are plenty of other put ins around the island, depending on tides and conditions.
Derwent Water - Crow Park
Derwentwater is undoubtedly the Jewel in the crown for Stand Up Paddleboarding in the English Lakes. Its proximity to Keswick and easy access by the A66 make it an ideal destination
Derwent waters numerous islands, secluded bays and river mouths provide a stunning backdrop to your paddling experience. The wild life is second to none, so keep a watchful eye out for otters, kingfishers, ospreys and other lake wildlife.