Offers of Paddle Boarding Northumberland

Stand-Up Paddleboarding, or SUP, has become the coolest water sport on the scene in the last couple of years. As the name suggests, the only equipment that you need is a paddle and a board, and with a bit of practice these can take you on a journey of exploration along coastlines, down rivers or around lakes. While most people will try this sport out for the first time off the sun soaked beaches of the Mediterranean or at a fashionable surf resort, we want to suggest a wilder destination for a SUP adventure - the county of Northumberland in Northeast England.

Forget 5 star hotels and sun loungers, Northumberland is a frontier land on the border of England and Scotland. The River Tweed is the Northern limit of the county, and the Eastern border is made up of a 64 mile stretch of stunning coast. The best way to explore these and other locations is by paddleboarding which has an ease of use and freedom of movement that other watersports can’t match. For a 360º view of the county that won’t leave a hole in your pocket, get up on a SUP!

Where are the best places to go paddleboarding in Northumberland?

• Blyth: Once one of the busiest ports in the country, Blyth is now a perfect sport for a peaceful paddle. In fact, the name of the town comes from an Old English word for gentle, and when the conditions are right this is the perfect way to describe the SUP opportunities here. You can paddle down the river Blyth, take a tour of the old docks, or spot the offshore wind farms on the horizon.

• Newbiggin-by-the-Sea: “The Couple” is a sculpture of a man and woman standing on a raised platform above a breakwater in the bay of this quaint seaside town. The breakwater shelters the bay from the North Sea swells, and the sculpture is just one of the points of interest that make a paddle from Newbiggin beach a memorable experience.

• Amble: There are numerous options for a SUP adventure around the town of Amble. One is the River Coquet, which loops around the impressive Warkworth Castle and passes Amble Marina on its way to the sea. Alternatively, you can have a go at paddleboarding on the still waters of Ladyburn Lake in Druridge Bay Country Park. Whichever you choose, you’re in for stunning views.

• Craster Harbour: When the wind blows from the Northeast, it’s best to take shelter in the protected waters of a harbour to enjoy SUP. But on calmer days, dare yourself to venture beyond the harbour wall and enjoy the views of the Northumberland Coast. Paddling out from Craster you can see up to Dunstanburgh Castle, set in an imposing position facing the sea.

• Beadnell Beach: One of the most picturesque beaches in the area, Beadnell boasts a sandy expanse that faces South to enjoy the best of the sun throughout the day. It’s a great place to go paddleboarding with natural protection from the wind and waves, and spectacular surroundings to take in.

• River Tweed: The Tweed marks the border between England and Scotland, so any journey along this river is a frontier adventure. We think that SUP is the best way to enjoy its passage through beautiful countryside, but you’ll share the route with boaters, kayakers and anglers waiting for salmon to bite.

What are the options for organising a session?

One of the factors that’s making paddleboarding a more popular choice than better established water sports like surfing or kayaking is that it has a low barrier to entry. As well as being cheap, it’s easy to learn and it’s not as strenuous as its competitors - unless you want it to be! That being said, it’s hugely beneficial to have some guidance on your first SUP experience, especially in Northumberland where weather and wave conditions can change quickly even in the Summer. There are lessons available along the coast of the county and inland, on rivers and lakes. Over 1.5 or 2 hours, you’ll get familiar with the kit and, in the trained hands of an instructor, take to the water and start paddling. There are sessions for absolute beginners, and those who’ve tried SUP before and want to improve their technique.

Another option for SUP enthusiasts who have some experience is a SUP tour. This is perfect if you’re not from Northumberland, because a local guide will make sure that you see the best that this county has to offer. A tour typically lasts about 2 hours, and can include natural and man made landscapes, think coastal features and castles,, as well as marine wildlife like seals and even dolphins. Of course, if you know the area well already, and you're a dab hand at paddleboarding, it’s possible to hire a SUP by the hour or day.

SUP can be an amazing solitary sport, but if you want to share the fun with your mates you should invite them onto an 8 person paddleboard on Ladyburn Lake. Excitement is guaranteed on this crazy craft - as is falling in - and you’ll leave with a smile on your face after having a watery adventure like no other.

Requirements to do this activity

The simplicity of SUP makes it an unmissable activity for all. Almost anyone can find their balance on a board and learn to use their body and the paddle to propel themselves through the water. In fact, one of the only restrictions on who can take part is the equipment that’s on offer. Some operators in Northumberland have child sized boards and paddles in store which kids as young as 6 years old can use, as long as there’s an adult with them to supervise. Other places only have equipment for adults, in general for those over 16 years of age.

A paddleboard is a personal piece of kit, one board to one person, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy it as a group.In fact, it’s a great way to explore Northumberland with your friends and family, with every person travelling at their own pace or racing each other. Depending on where you go, you can make a group booking for a maximum of 7, 10 or 17 people - so no one will be left out!

If you’ve still got questions, just get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help you organise your experience.