Kayaking may seem like a distant, wild dream if you live in a bustling city like London, but there are plenty of fantastic spots to go kayaking in the UK and just outside the city ranging from whitewater fun parks to relaxing river and city tours.
Whether you’ve never paddled or are a seasoned pro, kayaking in London is a great way to slow down and see the city in a different light. Here are some of the best trails for your next kayaking adventure.
- Thames, Central London
If you’re going kayaking in London, you won’t want to miss out on a boat ride through the city. A day kayaking down the Thames in London, lined with epic buildings like Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, is the ideal combination of sightseeing and adventure.
A night kayaking trip along the Thames provides a unique perspective of the United Kingdom’s most famous city. Kayaking in London at night is a very unique experience that should not be missed.
- Grand Union Canal, Central London
The Grand Union canal winds through impressive, lush countryside, making it a terrific multi-day adventure. It’s also a terrific place for those looking for more of a touring challenge.
The Grand Union canal flows through several towns including Solihull, Royal Leamington Spa, Milton Keynes, and Leighton Buzzard. These branches provide interesting and picturesque ‘mini-adventures’ for paddlers.
- River Lea, Hertfordshire
The River Lea, which originates in Luton, roughly 30 miles north of London, is one of the nearest places you can go to experience some nature and take a break from kayaking in the city.
The river Lea is an excellent site for anyone who kayaks in London on a regular basis. It’s easy to travel to and takes you outside of the city’s hustle and bustle, offering you a much-needed vacation from the city’s stress.
- Regent’s Canal, London
If you’re in London on vacation or live there and want to get away from the busy city life, Regent’s Canal offers a great trail to kayak along. Despite the fact that the trip takes place in central London, the calm environments make you feel as if you are somewhere else entirely.
You can start your journey from Regent’s Park and kayak until the end at Camden Lock. The canal paddle is only 90 minutes long. The weather is usually beautiful and you can expect to see a lot of birds on the canal. If you go in the spring, you will see a lot of ducklings.
With a limitless amount of routes and places, London is the ideal area to start a kayaking trip. Experience the capital in a new way, taking in all the sights of central London along the way, then stretch your legs as the tide turns. Kayaking provides great fun, and there are many clubs and groups all over London that offer the activity.