Paddle the North of England

The definitive guide to exploring the North of England under paddle power, from the majestic Northumberland coastline to the spectacular landscapes of the Lake District.

With countless beautiful lakes, rivers and coastlines, the North of England offers abundant opportunities for paddleboarders, canoeists and kayakers. Written by highly experienced paddleboard instructor Bruce Smith, this guide features 40 routes across the North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, including:

• The Farne Islands – paddle out to Northumberland's tranquil Inner Farne, home to Atlantic grey seals.
• River Wear, Durham City – launch from the rowing club and then meander through the heart of the city, taking in the views of Durham Cathedral.
• The vast Lake Windermere – marvel at the vistas of the Lake District National Park and be sure to stop for a picnic on the Lady Holme Island.

From short paddles suitable for beginners to longer expeditions for experienced paddlers, this book includes excursions for all levels of ability. Responsible paddling is covered thoroughly, with a guide to safety equipment and how to use it properly, staying environmentally aware, and advice on licensing. Illustrated with beautiful photography and clear maps, each route details launching points, the best places to stop, and the sites, landmarks and wildlife to look out for along the way.

About the Author

Bruce Smith is a British Stand-Up Paddleboard Association instructor and Co-founder of Northern Sup Race Team. A Naish SUP ambassador, Bruce is a highly experienced paddleboarder who has as much passion for helping beginners learn new skills as he does for racing his Naish Javelin in national and international competitions.

Table of Contents

NORTH EAST
1 Northumberland – Berwick-upon-Tweed
2 Northumberland – Farne Islands
3 Northumberland – Beadnell Bay
4 Northumberland – Ladyburn Lake/Druridge Bay Co Park
5 Northumberland – Hexham Tyne Green
6 Northumberland/Co Durham – Derwent Reservoir
7 Tyne and Wear – R Tyne/Newburn to Wylam
8 Tyne and Wear – Whitley Bay/St Mary's Lighthouse
9 Tyne and Wear – Sunderland/Roker to Seaburn
10 Co Durham – Durham R Wear

CUMBRIA
11 Carlisle to Rockcliffe
12 R Derwent/Grange to Derwent Water
13 Ullswater
14 St Bees
15 Wast Water
16 Coniston Water
17 L Windermere

YORKSHIRE
18 N Yorks – Semerwater
19 N Yorks – Ellerton Lake
20 N Yorks – Preston Park to Yarm
21 N Yorks – Runswick Bay to Staithes
22 N Yorks – Whitby
23 N Yorks – Ripon Canal to Boroughbridge
24 N Yorks – York R Ouse
25 E Riding – R Derwent/Kirkham Priory to Stamford Bridge
26 E Riding – Flamborough Head and Caves
27 W Yorks – Saltaire Brewery to Bingley Five Rise Locks
28 W Yorks – Leeds Woodlesford Circular
29 S Yorks – R Don/Sprotbrough to Mexborough Lock

NORTH WEST
30 Lancashire – Carnforth to Lancaster
31 Lancashire – Foulridge Tunnel
32 Lancashire – Fairhaven Lake
33 Lancashire – Parbold to Wigan Pier/Leeds and Liverpool Canal
34 Merseyside – Southport Marine Lake
35 Merseyside – Wallasey to Leasowe Beach
36 Merseyside – Liverpool Royal Albert Docks
37 Cheshire – Farndon to Chester/R Dee
38 G Manchester – Barton Swing Aqueduct to Giants Basin

HUMBERSIDE AND NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE
39 N Notts – Drakeholes
40 Lincs – Haile Sands Fort/Cleethorpes