Stand-up paddle boarding is rapidly gaining popularity and it’s clear to see why. You’ll be glad to know it’s generally easier to pick up than surfing and can be done as a fun social activity among its friendly and welcoming community; as an opportunity to go sightseeing from a unique angle; or as a highly competitive sport. Although shortboard surfing was introduced in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, stand-up paddle boarding has been campaigning to be included in the Olympic Games for years. While it could be a possible addition to the 2032 edition of the Olympic Games in Brisbane, there was a profound disappointment at the sport’s exclusion from the upcoming 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
Stand-up paddle boarding originates in Hawaii and stems from surfing with its roots in ancient practices like fishing and essential travelling. The main feature differentiating the sport from surfing is the use of a paddle to propel yourself through the water and therefore the ability to practice stand-up paddle boarding in still waters. In recent years, it has been recognised as the fastest growing water sport worldwide which can be attributed to its versatility as well as its accessibility to all age groups and levels of ability and expertise. In Yorkshire, stand-up paddle boarding can be done along the scenic coast with its rugged cliffs and diverse terrains; in the serene waters of the lakes dotted around the historic county; or in the free-flowing waters of the region’s rivers and canals. Whitewater stand-up paddleboarding is the more extreme version of the sport, relying on fast flowing rivers with strong currents and rapids – so perhaps not in Yorkshire then.
Cayton Bay, however, is a scenic gem on the Yorkshire coast, nestled between Scarborough and Filey, and is home to Scarborough Surf School where you can benefit from one-to-one, couples and group lessons as well as Super SUP – an 18ft, 8-man giant paddle board activity where you’ll be able to explore the bay, visit the seal colony, and take part in fun-filled games. Dexter’s Surf Shop can be found in Scarborough’s North Bay and offers lessons and Half-Day, Beach & Bite SUP Tours complete with seal and porpoise spotting. Whitby Surf School is another wonderful option thanks to the calm seas and picture-perfect views provided by Whitby’s coast. Take advantage of the unique opportunity to enjoy sunset and sunrise paddles accompanied by views all the way down to Sandsend once you’re far enough out at sea, where you also might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some dolphins!
If you’re looking for an inland adventure, Alfresco Adventure offers an 11km guided route over the course of 5 hours, taking you from the northernmost point of the entire English canal network in Ripon, into the River Ure and all the way to Boroughbridge. Then there’s Ellerton Lake near Richmond, a beautiful spot that is home to one of North England’s leading water sport centres, SUP Active Yorkshire. Here you can try something new in the form of stand-up paddle boarding yoga and polo sessions or accessible adaptive sessions on boards fitted with chairs and beanbags with the option of added stabilisers or an additional paddler for those needing a little extra help. Near Scarborough, North Yorkshire Water Park at Wykeham Lakes awaits, it is one of the largest natural water sport lakes in North Yorkshire, sprawling across an immense 250 hectares. Here you’ll be able to take advantage of equipment hire with or without instruction featuring Giant SUP hire for up to 8 people and an array of other exciting and unique activities including wakeboarding, fishing and inflatable adventure courses. Elsewhere in the peaceful surrounds of Eavestone, near the historic ruins of Fountains Abbey Lake and the Michelin-starred fine dining establishment at Grantley Hall, Lost Earth Adventures sits by the scenic Eavestone Lake. Nestled in an enchanting woodland area, you can head out on the water or make the most of the nearby glamping site full of Yurts complete with fire pits and a private hot tub.
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