Nothing beats the invigorating adventure of taking to the open water and whether you want to battle rapids and challenging white water or enjoy a serene paddle across calm lakes, kayaking is a fantastic way to get back to nature. If you’re willing to brave the chilly weather it’s a sport that can be enjoyed all year round and kayak experience days take place up and down the British Isles. Here are five of the best places to kayak in the UK which will see you paddling against a backdrop of stunning scenery:
Snowdonia, North Wales
There is good reason why the National White Water Centre has set up home in the stunning Snowdonia National Park – you guessed it, an abundance of fantastic white water. The River Tryweryn offers various grades of white water from challenging level fours for experienced kayakers to take on down to the calmer grade two, perfect to get a taste of the excitement of kayaking experience days. If a serene water adventure is more your thing then there are plenty of even calmer water spots to explore too and the breathtaking scenery of Mount Snowdon and its surrounding peaks make for an awe-inspiring backdrop to your kayaking adventure.
River Wye, Herefordshire
The River Wye meanders gently past traditional English villages and hamlets, as well as rolling countryside and green fields, crossing the border into Wales and taking you within easy reach of the Brecon Beacons. The route stretches out across more than 100 miles making this perfect for a relaxed touring kayak trip, with plenty of accommodation and refreshing stop-offs along the route as well if you want to make a weekend of it. Tearing yourself away from the enchanting countryside and calming river will be the toughest part of your trip. Then also have a look at LayerMap, as it’s a brilliant way to find the best local attractions.
‘The Bitches,’ South Wales
For those who are looking for an added thrill with their kayaking then this renowned hotspot is a must-visit. ‘The Bitches,’ as they are known to watersports enthusiasts, are made up of various waves, whirlpools and other white water challenges over lines of rocks and a shallow reef in Pembrokeshire. The tidal water trap between Treginnis Head and Ramsey Island also offers consistent water levels any time of year, perfect for getting your adventure kick whenever you need it.
The Jurassic Coast, Dorset
Sea kayaking at its best, with the chance to take in more than 185 million years of geological history. Paddling out along the coast gives you a unique viewpoint of the dramatic cliffs and rock formations which make up the UK’s first World Heritage Site. Lead your kayak on a sea adventure, exploring untouched coves and hidden beaches and make your way underneath Durdle Door, a striking limestone archway that just out to sea and dates back 140 million years.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
For rustic, wilderness kayaking, the waters off the west coast of Scotland are unrivalled. There are plenty of islands to choose from and routes that will take you through the inspiring archipelagos, with Skye among the pick of the places to head for. The unpredictable weather can be bracing, but it is more than worth it for the scintillating, mountainous terrain that surrounds you. Plus, you won’t have trouble finding a wee dram of whisky to warm you up at the end of a day of paddling.
