Paddleboard London’s waterways and you’ll discover some surprisingly good paddleboarding spots. From floating past Tower Bridge on the Thames to exploring quiet canal basins in Little Venice, paddleboarding in London gives you a completely different view of the city while getting a decent workout.
Whether you’re completely new to SUP or have been paddling for years, this guide covers the top 10 spots around London, including where to rent gear, launch your own board, and what you need to know about staying safe and legal on the water.
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Why Paddle Board in London?
See the city from water level: There’s something special about paddling past Big Ben or under Tower Bridge. You’ll spot details and angles you’d never see from the pavement, plus get some exercise while sightseeing.
More wildlife than you’d expect: London’s waterways are home to herons, swans, and even a famous Thames seal called Tommy. It’s surprisingly peaceful once you’re on the water.
Beginner-friendly options: Plenty of London’s SUP spots have calm, flat water that’s perfect for learning. There are loads of instructors and rental companies around too, so getting started is pretty straightforward.
Paddle most of the year: While summer’s obviously best, London’s mild climate means you can get out on the water most months if you’ve got the right gear.
Top 10 London Paddle Board Spots
1. Paddington Basin – Flat Water in Central London
Paddington Basin is probably the best place to start if you’re new to paddleboarding in London. It’s completely flat water with no current, tucked away in Zone 1 but feeling miles from the chaos outside. The basin connects to the canal network, so once you’re comfortable, you can explore toward Little Venice with its colourful narrowboats and waterside cafes.
Nervous beginners get their confidence here because there’s literally nowhere to go wrong – it’s like paddling in a big outdoor swimming pool, just with much better views. The modern Paddington development surrounds the water, and early mornings before 9 AM are brilliant when the water’s like glass and there are fewer canal boats about. If you’re completely new to SUP, check out this guide on how to stand up on a paddle board before your first session.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: Concrete slipway near Merchant Square (you’ll need to carry your board down some steps)
- Rentals: Active360 Paddington – gear rental, beginner lessons, guided canal tours
- License: Canal & River Trust license needed if you paddle beyond the main basin (£5 for the day)
The area’s got loads of canal-side spots for coffee afterward, and it’s dead easy to get to by tube. Perfect if you want to combine paddleboarding with a day out in London.
2. Richmond Bridge – Thames with Loads of Wildlife
Richmond’s where you’ll get the most wildlife action on your paddle. The Thames here isn’t tidal above Teddington Lock, which means much gentler conditions and consistent water levels. You’ll paddle past elegant Victorian houses, and there’s a good chance of spotting herons, kingfishers, and swans. Sometimes deer from Richmond Park come down to drink at the water’s edge.
The highlight is definitely Eel Pie Island – this quirky little island with houseboats has serious musical history (The Rolling Stones played gigs there back in the day). The whole area just feels more countryside than city, even though you’re still in London.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: River Lane slipway in Petersham or the ramp by Richmond Bridge
- Rentals: Paddle Richmond – gear, wildlife tours, sunset paddles, lessons for all levels
- Conditions: Non-tidal upstream, but gets tidal below Richmond Lock
Most people stay upstream toward Teddington, where it’s calmer and greener. Richmond town’s right there with plenty of cafes and shops, plus you can easily walk to Richmond Park afterward to see those famous deer up close.
3. Camden Lock – Urban Paddling at Its Best
Camden gives you the full urban paddleboarding experience. You’ll float past street art, houseboats, and right by London Zoo – sometimes you can see the animals in their enclosures from the water, which is pretty cool. The Regent’s Canal runs flat for miles between Camden and Little Venice, so there’s loads to explore.
The vibe here is completely different from anywhere else – you’re paddling through one of London’s most buzzing neighborhoods. Expect curious looks from Camden Market bridges and the odd tourist taking photos. The canal’s lock-free in this section, so no worries about getting stuck anywhere.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: Pirate Castle community center (small fee, about 5 minutes from Camden Town tube)
- Rentals: Paddleboarding London – canal tours, evening social paddles, local history tours
- License: Canal & River Trust license required (£5 daily)
Get there early if you can – the canal gets busy with narrowboats, especially summer weekends. There are some low bridges you’ll need to duck under, but it’s all part of the fun. Camden Market afterward is a no-brainer for food and a browse.
4. Kew Bridge – Proper Thames Adventure
Kew Bridge is where London’s serious SUP community hangs out. It’s tidal water, which means you need to plan around the tides, but that’s also what makes it exciting. Get the timing right (about 2 hours after London Bridge high tide), and you can ride the incoming flow upstream with barely any effort.
This is where you might spot Tommy the Thames seal if you’re lucky, especially during higher tides. Upstream takes you past Kew Gardens and Syon House – really scenic stuff. Downstream, you’re heading toward Hammersmith and more urban territory.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: Concrete slipway beside Kew Bridge (Strand-on-the-Green side, free parking nearby)
- Rentals: Active360 Kew Bridge – tidal courses, safety equipment, local knowledge
- Important: Check tide times first, wear a buoyancy aid, not suitable for complete beginners
The Strand on the Green has some cracking riverside pubs where loads of paddlers end up afterward. The Bell & Crown’s particularly popular. Kew Bridge Station is right there for getting home without a car.
5. St Katharine Docks – Tower Bridge Views
Want to paddle with Tower Bridge as your backdrop? St Katharine Docks is your spot. It’s a private marina, so the water’s completely flat and sheltered from the Thames currents. Perfect for beginners who want that central London experience without dealing with tides and boat traffic.
The whole setup feels quite posh – luxury yachts, historic buildings, and excellent facilities. The dawn sessions around 6:30 AM are something special when the light hits Tower Bridge just right. There’s also SUP yoga if you’re into that sort of thing.
Launch Options:
- Access: Private marina – you need to book organized sessions (no independent launching)
- Rentals: Paddleboarding London – dawn paddles, SUP yoga, historical tours
- Special: Early morning sessions for best lighting and fewer people
You’re literally next to Tower Bridge, Tower of London, and Borough Market. The Dickens Inn overlooks the water, and the whole area’s perfect for making a day of it. Multiple tube stations nearby make it dead easy to get to.
6. Brentford Lock – Perfect for Families
Brentford Lock is brilliant for families and nervous beginners. Where the Grand Union Canal meets the River Brent, you get this wide, shallow basin that’s much more spacious than typical canal spots. The water’s completely flat, and if anyone falls in, it’s easy to help them out.
Kids as young as 8 have lessons here, and the instructors really know how to make it fun rather than scary. The sunset light bouncing off the water is lovely, and you’re surrounded by a mix of new apartment blocks and old canal warehouses.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: Public slipway near Brentford Gauging Locks (parking available nearby)
- Rentals: Active360 Brentford – family sessions, kids’ equipment, beginner coaching
- License: Canal & River Trust license needed (no tide worries though)
The Musical Museum and Watermans Arts Centre are just down the road, making it easy to fill a whole day. Brentford High Street’s got several pubs and cafes for afterward too.
7. Putney Bridge – Where the Boat Race Starts
Putney’s got serious rowing heritage – this is where the Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race kicks off every year. There’s a strong water sports community here with good facilities, but you need to know what you’re doing because it’s tidal water with some serious currents.
The rowing clubs are pretty active, so you’ll need to stay out of their way and give them the right of way. But the social side’s great – there are regular SUP meetups, and everyone’s usually up for a chat about conditions and routes.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: Public slipways both sides of Putney Bridge (south side by The Dukes Head is most popular)
- Rentals: Limited local options – check for seasonal groups or head to the nearest Active360
- Conditions: Tidal with strong currents – paddle around slack tide if you’re not experienced
Downstream, you’ll pass Battersea Park and can see Battersea Power Station in the distance. The Thames Path’s great for walking, and Putney’s riverside pubs are legendary among the rowing crowd. They’re happy to welcome paddlers too.
8. Greenwich & Royal Docks – City Skylines
East London’s where you get the most dramatic city views while paddling. Royal Victoria Dock (through WakeUp Docklands) gives you these massive sheltered basins with Canary Wharf towers reflected in the water. It’s pretty spectacular, especially in the evening when all the lights come on.
The facility’s really modern with excellent changing rooms and a cafe. You’ll be sharing the water with wakeboarders and kayakers, which creates quite a buzzy atmosphere. Greenwich Thames is more challenging – strong currents and lots of boat traffic, so you really need to know what you’re doing or go with a guide.
Launch Options:
- Royal Docks: WakeUp Docklands – modern facility, supervised access, equipment rental
- Greenwich Thames: Guided tours recommended (DC Outdoors, Moose Canoe)
- Conditions: Royal Docks are sheltered, the Thames is tidal with strong currents
You might spot seals even out here, plus loads of seabirds. The DLR connections are brilliant for getting to Canary Wharf or central London. Perfect if you’re staying near City Airport too.
9. Walton-on-Thames – Peaceful River Escape
Just outside London, Walton feels like real countryside, but you can still get there easily on the train from Waterloo (about 35 minutes). The Thames here isn’t tidal, so water levels stay consistent and the current’s gentle. Much more relaxed than central London spots.
Desborough Island makes for a nice circuit paddle – it’s an artificial island that gives you sheltered water and a bit of Thames history as you go round. The wildlife’s brilliant here too – definitely more kingfishers and herons than you’ll see in central London.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: Walton Wharf or slipway near Walton Bridge, parking at Hurst Park
- Rentals: Blue Chip SUP School – ASI certified, lessons, tours, even SUP polo
- Conditions: Non-tidal, gentle currents, predictable conditions
There are little river beaches and islands where you can stop for a picnic. It’s perfect for building up your river skills before tackling more challenging spots elsewhere in the UK. Feels like good value compared to central London prices too.
10. Lee Valley – London’s Hidden Gem
The River Lee’s probably London’s best-kept SUP secret. Tree-lined waterways away from the crowds, with this interesting mix of industrial heritage and new developments. You’ll paddle past old Victorian pumping stations and converted warehouses that give the area loads of character.
The Middlesex Filter Beds are worth exploring if you can get permission – it’s like this hidden nature reserve that you can only really appreciate from the water. Loads of herons and waterfowl about.
Launch Options:
- Self-Launch: Springfield Park in Hackney (ask the rowing club nicely) or Stonebridge Lock
- Rentals: Lea Rowing Club, various informal groups organize social paddles
- License: Canal & River Trust license required
Hackney Wick’s got character – several breweries and cafes right on the water where you can tie up your board and grab a drink. The whole area mixes industrial history with the local arts scene. It’s authentically London but completely different from the tourist spots.
Essential Info for London Paddleboarding
Licenses & Legal Stuff
For canals and non-tidal rivers (like Regent’s Canal or the Thames above Teddington), you need a Canal & River Trust license. It’s £5 for a day license, or you can get an annual British Canoeing membership, which covers you nationwide. If you’re unsure about the licensing requirements, there’s a detailed guide to waterways licenses explained.
The tidal Thames doesn’t need a license, but it’s much more challenging with strong currents and boat traffic. If you’re new to paddleboarding, definitely get some lessons before tackling tidal sections.
Park lakes like the Serpentine are generally off-limits unless you’re doing an organized session with a registered company.
Safety Essentials
The golden rule for UK paddleboarding is always wear a buoyancy aid – even in summer, the water stays cold all year round. If you’re looking for the right safety gear, check out this guide to the best life jackets for paddleboarding. Use a leash too (coiled type for flat water, quick-release for flowing rivers).
Check the weather and tides before heading out. Don’t paddle in strong winds or when there are weather warnings. On canals, stay to the right when passing other boats – it’s like driving but opposite to normal UK roads. Always give way to larger vessels as they can’t stop or maneuver as quickly as you can.
What to Wear
- Summer: Quick-dry shorts/leggings, rashguard or t-shirt, bare feet or neoprene booties
- Spring/Autumn: Wetsuit recommended – water stays cold even on sunny days
- Winter: Drysuit, neoprene boots, and gloves essential
- Golden rule: Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature
For detailed seasonal clothing advice, see this complete guide on what to wear paddleboarding.
Best Times to Paddle
Early mornings offer the calmest conditions with fewer boats around, while weekdays are generally much quieter than weekends. For tidal spots, high tide usually means easier paddling and better water levels. Spring and summer obviously provide the warmest weather, but they’re also the busiest times on the water.
Where to Rent Paddle Boards in London
Active360 has multiple locations (Paddington, Kew Bridge, Brentford), and they’re really good for beginners. Paddleboarding London operates from Camden and St Katharine Docks, specializing in urban tours. Paddle Richmond focuses on wildlife tours and scenic paddles in the Richmond area.
Most rental packages include:
- Inflatable paddleboard
- Paddle and leash
- Buoyancy aid
- Basic instruction
- Safety briefing
- Waterproof phone case (some providers)
Typical costs: 2-hour rentals £25-40, beginner lessons £35-50, guided tours £40-60, SUP yoga classes £25-35.
Paddleboard London FAQ
Do you need experience to paddle board in London? Not for the calm spots like Paddington Basin or Brentford Lock. For tidal Thames sections, definitely get some lessons first or go with experienced paddlers.
Can you bring your own board? Absolutely, just check where you can launch and sort out any licenses you need. Inflatable boards are brilliant for London because they’re easy to carry on public transport. If you’re looking to buy your own board, check out this guide to the best budget paddle boards in the UK.
What about changing and storing stuff? Commercial operators usually have changing areas. For public launch spots, bring a changing robe – you’ll be grateful for it.
Is it actually safe paddling in London? Very safe if you follow the guidelines – wear proper gear, check conditions, and pick spots that match your skill level. The commercial operators all have good safety records.
Can you paddle all year round? Yeah, with the right clothing. Winter means wetsuit or drysuit territory, but loads of the operators run year-round sessions.
Planning Your London SUP Adventure
Complete beginners: Start with Paddington Basin or Brentford Lock and book a lesson to learn good technique. If you’re just starting out, there are things you’ll wish you knew when you started SUP that can save you time and hassle.
Some experience: Try Kew Bridge or Richmond for more variety. Worth learning to read tide charts if you want to do Thames paddling.
Experienced paddlers: Greenwich, Royal Docks, or Lee Valley will show you different sides of London from the water.
Families: Brentford Lock and Richmond are your best bets for safe, enjoyable family paddling.
London’s paddleboarding scene keeps growing, and there are always new spots being discovered and access improved. Whether you live here or you’re visiting, getting out on London’s waterways gives you a completely different perspective on the city – and it’s surprisingly addictive once you start.
Learn More
Like this review? Well, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- How To Paddle Board: Complete SUP Guide for Beginners
- What To Wear Paddleboarding
- 19 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Paddleboarding
- Best Paddle Board Accessories
- The Waterways Licence Explained
- Best Dryrobe Alternative Changing Robes
All images courtesy of Respective Brands, All Rights Reserved.
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
