Our experts dish the details on the best paddling locations
When it comes to locations, London is a paddler’s paradise (if you know where to look). Our team can recommend some of the best spots to paddle, including stunning locations on the River Thames
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Kayaking & SUP London Location Tips
In the heart of London lies an incredibly unique island, Garrick’s Ait, the only one in the country named after an actor.
This charming destination was previously the location of a grand villa which belonged to the famous British actor, David Garrick.
Now transformed into stunning apartments, the island boasts an array of 20 beautiful houses.
Visitors can marvel at Garrick’s Temple to Shakespeare, a wonderful attraction located between the river and the villa.
Thames Ditton Island, the largest of three, is opposite Home Park and has 48 homes and moorings.
The Thames Riviera is home to the luxurious Taggs Island, a place where some of the most expensive houseboats in the Thames.
Connected to the Middlesex Bank by a road bridge and formerly owned by one of the most famous circus impresarios, Fred Karno, who famously discovered Charlie Chaplin, the island is home to over 100 people who peacefully reside in 62 stunning floating homes.
Nearby, Ash Island has over 30 houseboats anchored in its peaceful location, with access to a boatyard.
Thames Ditton Island, the largest of the three islands, sits opposite Home Park and boasts an impressive 48 homes and moorings.
If you prefer something a bit more intimate, Swan Island and Boyle Farm Island, both smaller and adjacent to each other, provide peaceful isolation.
Further upstream, Grand Junction Isle is home to six charming summerhouse-sized chalets.
And finally, Sunbury Court Island is linked to the Middlesex Bank by a magnificent footbridge and is home to 25 permanent dwellings that await your arrival.
London has no shortage of hidden treasures, but these picturesque islands are a true delight to explore.
Regardless if you've never dipped a paddle in the water, here at Hampton Court Paddlesports, our expert instructors can help you hone your kayaking skills and safely get you on the water as quickly as possible.
- Paddle for a sunset pint, or crawl from pub to pub.
- Glide along stunning waterways on a traditional kayak of your choice, from single to double seated.
- Get back to nature and discover the wildlife that sits just outside of the city.
- Go wild swimming, or even gaze up at the stars.
- Go in groups of six, socialise, and enjoy the simple fun of kayaking trips.
- Team bonding and company groups.
Kayak & SUP Lessons near London
Kayak & Paddleboard Hires near London
Surprisingly, there is a lot of choice for canoeing and kayaking in London, with most destinations offering lovely scenery and lots of nature.
However, London offers a more urban range of paddling experiences, where you can tour the city from a different perspective.
The classical London kayaking experience is usually completed from Greenwich to Battersea, boasting sites covering Greenwich Park, Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster, Big Ben, and more.
With all that being said, if you are looking for something quieter, personal, and less busy, try the local Surrey waterways to experience a more relaxed day on the water.
Directions From London
Address is 16 Cherry Orchard Gardens, KT8 1QY
- Nearest parking Hurst Car Park (a 15-minute walk away)
- Launch from our private pontoon
- Booking in advance is not always essential – message on Whatsapp for last-minute availability
- 45 minutes using the A3
- 10 minutes from Kingston Upon Thames
- Nearest train Hampton Court
