A Visitor’s Guide To Paddleboarding In The Cotswolds

Stand-up paddleboarding is fast becoming one of the most popular outdoor activities in the Cotswolds.

See the Cotswolds from a different perspective as you paddle along the River Avon, and get a good workout in, too!

Bring your own paddleboard or rent one from a local stand-up paddleboarding specialist like Cotswold Water Park, and take to the waters of the Cotswolds.

Everything you need to know about paddleboarding in the Cotswolds

Why not pay a visit to The Beckford Inn near Tewkesbury, and see what award-winning Butcombe beers we have available before you rest your head in one of our 12 boutique ensuite bedrooms.

 

Before You Start Paddleboarding

There are a lot of places to paddleboard in the Cotswolds, so you should think about whether you want to try stand-up paddleboarding along the River Avon or at one of the many lakes.

Then you should consider whether you want to bring your own paddleboard – if you have one – or if you’d rather hire a paddleboard in the Cotswolds.

If you’re new to SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), a thick and wide paddleboard is generally best, but if you’re more experienced, you might prefer something thinner and more agile. The ideal length of your paddleboard is around 9-10 inches taller than your height.

It’s best to check the weather before you go paddleboarding, as strong winds and waves can make it more challenging.

Finally, you’ll need to research whether you’d like a guided paddleboard session or you’d prefer to go it alone.

Places For Paddleboarding In And Around The Cotswolds

There are plenty of places for paddleboarding in the Cotswolds during your visit.

You’ll see a totally different side of the Cotswolds on your SUP (stand-up paddleboard) as you take to the waters.

Here are our recommendations for where to paddleboard in the Cotswolds

River Avon

There are several start and finish points along the River Avon that are ideal for paddleboarding.

Whether you would like to explore the edge of the Cotswolds around Bristol, dip into the South of the Cotswolds near Bath, or go deeper into the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Westonbirt Arboretum, the River Avon ticks all of the boxes.

4 Lakes

If you’re looking for a supervised paddleboarding session (ideal for children or those new to SUP), 4 Lakes Water Ski School is a great choice.

Offering supervised watersports for the whole family, you can have fun and get fit at the same time.

Waterland Outdoor Pursuits

Situated at Lake 32 in the Cotswold Water Park, Waterland Outdoor Pursuits boasts a lake that has been divided so that multiple watersport activities can be enjoyed at the same time.

It also offers an onsite café and is approved by all of the National Governing Bodies for watersports.

South Cerney Outdoor

Located between Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, South Cerney Outdoor offers its own lightweight SUPs for you to hire during your paddleboarding session.

You can also enjoy canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking, or indulge in a tasty treat or a drink at The Lodge.

Cotswold Country Park & Beach

Whether you prefer paddleboarding, kayaking, or you’d like to captain your own pedalo or rowboat, Cotswold Country Park & Beach has it all across 2 lakes.

Visitors can also opt to take a leisurely stroll around the lakes, enjoy a hot drink or snack in the cafe or bring their four-legged friend for a bit of fresh air by the water.

Where To Stay For A Paddleboarding Trip In The Cotswolds

After a long day paddleboarding in the Cotswolds, you deserve a break.

Why not stop off at The Beckford Inn near Tewkesbury for a well-earned pint of award-winning Butcombe beer, some delicious seasonal pub food, or even a welcoming and comfortable place to rest your head in one of our 12 boutique rooms in the Cotswolds.