Watersports Holidays: Scenic UK Locations
In search of new locations for UK watersports holidays? While many people head abroad to chase sunshine in the summer months, there are so many locations right here on UK shores where adrenaline junkies and watersport enthusiasts can take in some beautiful scenery while enjoying kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and many other of your favourite water activities.
To help you choose the location for your next watersports holiday, here at NorthShore Watersports, we’ve listed a few of our favourite watersports UK locations to give you inspiration for your next adventure.
Hayling Island, Hampshire
Where better to start than the birthplace of windsurfing – Hampshire’s Hayling Island. Sheltered by the Isle of White, Hayling Island offers perfect conditions for plenty of water activities including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, powerboating and kitesurfing in a picturesque environment off the south coast. As well as its sheltered waters, this coastal watersports location boasts three miles of beautiful beaches, safe open spaces and plenty of fresh sea air. From dinghy sailing to powerboating, Hayling Island Sailing Club also offers training courses for adults and children if you’re looking to learn something new or improve your skills in the water.
Rutland Water, Rutland
Located in the internationally famous Rutland Water Reserve, Rutland Water Park is packed full of sailing clubs and watersports centres for all ages and abilities. Set on over 4,200 acres of open countryside, you can find scenic camping sites to pitch up in, while its surrounding villages have plenty of picturesque walks and traditional country pubs to warm up in after a day on the water. As one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, there’s plenty of space to get out on the water and enjoy some sailing, kayaking or canoeing – just watch out for the Rutland Belle pleasure boat as it tours the lake!
The Lake District, Cumbria
Everyone will already be aware of the stunning Lake District, one of the most picturesque areas of the UK, but we couldn’t bring ourselves to leave it out. Boasting a number of lakes that are surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery and ideal for watersport enthusiasts, the Lake District is one of the top areas for watersports holidays in the country. Ideal for wild swimming, canoeing, kayaking and many other water activities, the Lake District is full of opportunities to immerse yourself with nature and get out on the water. Try Windermere, Derwent Water or Coniston for stunning views out on the tranquil lakes, while the surrounding areas host plenty of hiking trails and scenic villages to explore as well.
Orkney Islands, Northern Isles of Scotland
Our final choice, Orkney Islands, is a bit of a wildcard, but with such amazing scenery and landscapes, it was hard to leave it out of our list of top UK watersports holidays. This archipelago of around 70 islands lies north of mainland Scotland and is home to Skara Brae, a world heritage site that is older than the Pyramids! There’s plenty of water activities including sea kayaking and canoeing to be done around the islands, set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes to take in while you’re having a rest. It might be a bit out of the way, but it’s definitely worth a visit.
And there you have our list of watersports UK locations for idyllic watersports holidays! From choppy coastal watersports to rural beauty spots and nature reserves, when it comes to water activities, there are plenty of picturesque locations right here in the UK to explore. Whether you’re looking for adventure and action or tranquil waters and calming scenery, a family holiday or a solo trip, there’s something for everyone on our list.
Got all you need for your next trip? Explore our range of kayaks, canoes, paddles and watersports accessories here at NorthShore Watersports to ensure you’re fully equipped for any upcoming water activities you have planned. We’re also home to high-quality watersports clothing and footwear to keep you warm and safe out on the water, as well as bank wear for exploring these scenic locations on foot.

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