Places to paddle: the perfect autumn adventures

As September rolls in, so does the much-loved season of autumn. The different weather and water conditions make for an entirely new paddling experience. Plus, the landscape is starting to change colour, which gives us incredible scenery. So, here’s a guide to our top autumn paddle adventures near you!

South West
The South West is home to many beautiful beaches, coves and estuaries, providing the perfect playground for paddlers of all abilities. Autumn paddle adventures are a magical experience where you will enjoy mild temperatures, uncrowded beaches and
stunning colours.

Our top pick – Tor Bay
With its largely calm waters, Tor Bay offers all paddlers a great place to learn and build confidence along a stunning coastline where you will encounter plenty of wildlife.
Paddlers can launch from any beach, but you are strongly advised to avoid harbour slipways in the interest of public safety.

South East
Discover a paddler’s paradise throughout the counties of Kent, Sussex and Surrey! You’ll find miles and miles of tranquil waterways, green flowing backwaters and plenty of natural rivers offering a range of challenges for all skill levels.

Our top pick – River Stour, Kent
The Stour is a really charming paddle for those wanting to meander through the heart of the countryside. Paddlers will flow from source to sea. You’ll also come across pretty converted mill buildings, ancient bridges, and sites such as the historic city of Canterbury – an incredible place to paddle. Why not try the Grove Ferry to Fordwich paddle trail on the Stour? View it on PaddlePoints: https://gopaddling.info/rivers/river-stour-in-kent/

Midlands
Across the Midlands, hundreds of miles of waterways weave through richly vibrant and diverse landscapes. Many of these waterways were once at the heart of the industrial revolution, meaning there is a wealth of history and heritage to explore along the way.

Our top pick – Birmingham & Black Country trails
Explore the heart of the country by discovering the various paddling trails through Birmingham and the Black Country. These trails look stunning in autumn, with flickering of gold and red lining the routes across 46 miles of industrial heritage, from Brownhills in the north to Lapworth at the southern end.

Birmingham Canals

Cumbria & North West
From picturesque rivers, glittering lakes and meandering canals there is a paddling experience to be found for everyone!

Our top pick – Lancaster Canal
Opened in 1819, the Lancaster Canal is an engineering masterpiece offering 41 miles of lock-free paddling – the longest stretch in the country. The canal links Preston to Kendal and will treat you to the delights of Lancashire. It’s one of the only coastal canal routes in the UK. Perfect if you’re looking for a gentle paddle, no portages, and beautiful scenery and views.

Lancaster Canal

Yorkshire & North East
The rivers and canals throughout Yorkshire and the North East offer paddlers the opportunity to experience a diverse landscape, from urban cities and industrial heritage to rural tranquillity.

Our top pick – River Ouse
The picturesque Yorkshire River Ouse, 52 miles long, is formed from the River Ure in North Yorkshire and flows around 13 miles through the city of York. It offers paddlers a unique way to experience the city, as well as the nature and wide range of wildlife along the way.

Don’t forget to access many of these canals and rivers; you’ll require a Canal & River Trust waterways licence. With Paddle UK membership, you will be covered to access these waterways. Get yours: https://gopaddling.info/the-river-licence-explained/