TWO EDINBURGH BEACHES IN PADDLEBOARDING TOP TEN
Boscombe Pier has been named the best place in the UK for paddleboarding with a score of 9.73. Located in Bournemouth, the beach has an excellent water classification making it an ideal spot for paddleboarders.
With almost 1,700 hours of sunshine each year and an average wind speed of 8.63 m/s per 10m, the conditions are well-suited for getting out on the water.
Lessons and equipment are available at local rentals such as Sorted Surf School and there are several cafes and restaurants along the pier which are perfect for refuelling after a paddleboarding session.
Best paddleboarding spots in the UK:
| Rank | Location | Local Authority | Country | Water classification | Average annual sunshine hours | Average annual rainfall (mm) | Mean wind speed (m/s) per 10m | Paddleboarding lessons | Paddleboarding score /10 |
| 1 | Boscombe Pier | Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole | England | Excellent | 1,694 | 919 | 8.36 | Yes | 9.73 |
| 2 | River Dart | Devon | England | Good | 1,729 | 901 | 8.35 | Yes | 8.82 |
| 3 | Whitby | North Yorkshire | England | Excellent | 1,567 | 906 | 9.41 | Yes | 8.73 |
| 4 | Wardie Bay | City of Edinburgh | Scotland | Excellent | 1,428 | 933 | 8.56 | Yes | 8.37 |
| 5 | Cotswold Water Park | Cotswolds | England | Excellent | 1,514 | 790 | 9.98 | Yes | 8.00 |
| 5 | Marazion Beach | Cornwall | England | Good | 1,753 | 1,003 | 8.50 | Yes | 8.00 |
| 7 | Cullen Beach | Moray | Scotland | Excellent | 1,455 | 1,005 | 9.73 | Yes | 7.55 |
| 8 | Portobello Beach | City of Edinburgh | Scotland | Sufficient |
River Dart follows in second place with a score of 8.82. With over 1,700 hours of sunshine each year, the area benefits from plenty of bright days which are perfect for heading out on the water.
The location also has relatively low average annual rainfall and a mean wind speed of 8.35 m/s per 10m, making for stable paddleboarding conditions. Paddleboarding gear can be hired nearby from providers such as Totnes Kayaks and Paddle Devon.
Whitby completes the top three with a score of 8.73. Known for its excellent water quality, it offers clean and safe water conditions for paddleboarders to enjoy. With mean wind speeds of 9.41 m/s per 10m, it is a great spot for those looking for more challenging paddleboarding conditions.
Visitors can hire equipment and lessons from local experts, including providers like the Whitby Surf School.
Edinburgh’s WARDIE BAY comes in a fine fourth and Portobello also features in the UK top ten, featuring eight on the list.
Sam Chadwick, author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors comments: “As the weather gets warmer, many are looking to go outside and enjoy the UK’s water.
“Paddleboarding is a fantastic way to experience the outdoors and there are several places across the UK to enjoy this activity, but safety is the most important thing.
“Since paddleboarding can involve being in deeper water, always wear a buoyancy aid no matter your swimming ability. Weather conditions can change quickly, and waters can rapidly become rough, so check the forecast before going out on the water. While on the paddleboard, keep the paddleboard leash securely attached to your ankle to ensure your board stays close by if you fall in.
“Even on warm days, deep water can be cold so always opt for a wetsuit to keep your body warm in case you fall into the water. It’s also important to stay within designated paddleboarding zones and be mindful of other people enjoying the water nearby.
“Always paddleboard with a buddy, let someone know your plans and expected return time and remember to only paddleboard within your capabilities.”