Looking to go paddle boarding in Surrey? Find out the BEST locations across the county to spend your summer on the water.
Over the past few years ‘SUP’ Paddle boarding has grown in popularity and it is easy to see why. It’s one of the quietest and most relaxing ways to travel across water and to explore, it also means you can get incredibly close up to wildlife without scaring it away.
However, it is not always easy to find the best or safest locations to do this particular hobby – especially if you are still learning.
Thankfully, Surrey is home to countless spots for safe paddle boarding, many of which will be popular with both amateur and experienced paddle boarders.
The Best Locations For Paddle Boarding in Surrey
Can you paddle board anywhere in Surrey?
The short answer is yes, you can paddle board on any ‘non-private’ water in Surrey. However, it is your responsibility to ensure it is safe and without a strong current. It is also advice to view license information on the British Canoeing website.
Therefore we do suggest using one of our Surrey paddle boarding locations below, even then it is best to use caution and check the conditions on the day.
Can you paddle board on the Thames?
Yes, you can paddleboard on the Thames or use any type of craft on the non-tidal River Thames between Cricklade Bridge and Teddington Lock, and the short section of the tidal River Thames between Teddington Lock and the Port of London Authority’s boundary, including backwaters and marinas.
Paddle boarding locations in Surrey
Buckland Park Lake, Reigate
Address: Buckland Park Lake, Reigate Road, Buckland, RH3 7BG
Price: From £30 per person for one hour
The Surrey Hills Adventure Company run a variety of SUP classes and activities on the Buckland Park Lake. From 1:1 tuition and small group intro sessions to freeride sessions as well corporate away days.
If you have yet to invest in your own SUP they also hire all equipment for you to use.
During the Spring and Summer months Buckland Park Lake is also one of the best locations in Surrey for wild swimming. It is also one of the only locations currently offering E-Foil in Surrey.
Mercers Country Park, Redhill
Address: Mercers Country Park, Nutfield Marsh Road, Merstham RH1 4EU.
Price: Course dependant
Mercers Country park is a great location if you are just starting out with the SUP, as they offer a variety of different tuition courses which are perfect for beginners. These courses aim to gain your confidence on a paddle board as well as teaching safety.
At present, a course appears to be the only way to SUP on Mercers Country Park Lake.
Back of Beyond Adventures, Richmond
Address: Petersham Road, River Lane, Richmond, TW10 7AG.
Price: £60 for two hours (self-guided) or £60 for one hour 45 minutes (small group lesson)
If you have yet to purchase your own SUP Board but would like to try paddle boarding on the Thames, you can do so with Back of Beyond Adventures. Based alongside the Richmond portion of the Thames River, they offer equipment hire for self-guided adventures as well as various different lessons.
Alongside SUP boards, they also hire and offer lessons in Kayaking on the Thames.
On a summer evening, after paddle boarding, you can take a trip to one of the many great beer gardens in Wimbledon.
Ditton Beach
Address: Ditton Beach, Albany Reach Park, KT7 0PY
Price: Free
This is for the more experienced Paddle boarders of Surrey, as there are no facilities or companies located at Ditton Beach. However, here you will find easy to launch spot on the Thames opposite the stunning views of Hampton Court.
This is also a great location for a picnic, therefore do not forget to bring your picnic backpack for afterwards!
It is goes without saying you will need your own SUP board if you want to go for here. The nearest company to here would be Ditton Paddle Boarding.
The Runnymede on Thames
Address: Windsor Rd, Egham TW20 0AG
Price: 3 hours for £30 or 6 hours for £50
The Runnymede is located on a ‘non tidal’ stretch of the Thames, meaning it’s ideal for a scenic float down the river or an exhilarating all body workout upstream.
Please note paddle boards will only be rented to those with previous experience and guests will sign a disclaimer to rent them.
Basingstoke Canal
Price: Free
The Basingstoke Canal runs through several towns in Surrey, including Woking, Byfleet, and Fleet. The canal offers a peaceful and scenic location for paddleboarding, with plenty of wildlife to observe along the way.
You can launch your board from various access points along the canal, including the car park at Colt Hill. As there are no facilities or companies located around this stretch, you will again need to have your own board.
Box Hill
Box Hill is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and it also offers a great location for paddleboarding. The River Mole runs through the area, offering a peaceful and scenic paddleboarding experience.
You can launch your board from the National Trust car park at the foot of Box Hill. As there are no facilities or companies located around this stretch, you will again need to have your own board.
These are just a few of the best paddleboarding locations in Surrey. As always, be sure to check local regulations and guidelines before paddling, and be mindful of other water users and the environment.