Watersports aren’t necessarily the first activity you think of when you picture summer in the UK, yet unknown to most there are plenty of water based activities and locations to try them, both in land and at sea. You have a choice from man-made centres and England’s own natural waters, either will do to try something outside of your comfort zone and enjoy a summer in the water. If you’re thinking of going camping this summer make sure you install some roof bars to your car, that way you can transport any water gear you own and have fun on the water wherever you go. No need to pay to rent equipment when you have your own! Here are a few watersport ideas available around the UK, any are worth trying this summer.

White water rafting is a hugely popular water sport in the UK, although the majority of people don’t know much about the activity- especially where to do it in the UK. Unknown to most of us in the UK, there are plenty of places to enjoy your favorite water sports such as; Nottinghamshire, Wales and the familiar Cornwall. There are a few man made centres around the country that cater for all levels, including Olympic. An example of one of these places is; Lee Valley White Water Centre located in Hertfordshire. This centre offers controlled water currents for beginners to understand how to navigate and experience how to handle rafting. The centre has its own lake with plenty of offered activities for everyone of all experience level. They even cater for events such as; corporate days, an alternative way to influence colleague bonding. If you’re thinking of taking on the white waters this summer, make sure you practise first with instructors so you know how to manoeuvre and dodge the danger of rocks, branches and river banks, along with unpredictable currents. In order to navigate these waters safely, you’ll need your water gear as protection. So make sure you pack your wetsuit, helmet and life jacket just in case. In North Wales, a popular place to raft is on Lake Vyrnwy, as it provides a space to enjoy a variety of water sports surrounded by beautiful scenery. There are so many man made water centres in the UK for children and schools to get involved with. Sign up to a team or start your own, summer is the perfect time to get on the water and learn something new while having fun.

Like most watersports, with kayaking all you need is a canoe and some oars. You can explore any water at a lazy gait, or practise your speed and work those arm muscles to push your limits. If you’re an avid kayaker or fan of any water sport, it is so easy to transport your water gear if you invest in a kayak carrier. You can travel the country paddling down whichever river or lake you choose at any time. Experience relaxed canoeing in the Lake District or adrenaline filled kayaking in Wales. A great destination for kayaking is Derwentwater in the Lake District, or more commonly known as ‘Queen of the Lake’ for its gorgeous scenery and idyllic atmosphere. This activity is a great way to navigate the waters and take the time to spot some wildlife on the shores. Kayaking is also an ideal way to go sightseeing, simply start paddling and enjoy the views from the comfort of your kayak. Another great spot is Cornwall, although it is a popular location for surfers, the crashing waves provide a challenge for the experienced kayaker but the vast expanse of the Atlantic provides a sense of freedom rarely found on any other water.

Mostly experienced abroad on sun kissed seas, paddle boarding is a popular watersport that hardly gets mentioned in the UK. But of course all this may change this summer, with a change in temperature more people will be looking for fun outdoor activities to get involved with that feature the cool water. If you’re ever in Scotland, visit the Isle of Mull for its array for nature and scenic views. Although, the entire island only has a population of around 3,000 people, so your best bet is to bring your own board and supplies. All you need to do is strap your gear onto your car roof and you’re set. Despite this, the rewards the land brings are endless, with 300 miles of unexplored coast lined with cliffs and rolling hills. Make sure to keep an eye out for the dolphins and whales that play just off the shore, as this is one location you’re sure to never forget.

A more recent development in the UK, inflatable water parks are growing in popularity and are the perfect way to spend your summer outside on the cool water. Ideal for families with young children who are looking to find a way to keep them occupied during the summer holidays. The New Forest Water Park in Hampshire offers an impressive 4,000 square meters of inflatable trampolines and assault courses. Spend your summer days jumping, bouncing, diving and having an overall enjoyable time on the inflatable course. You’ll feel like your on holiday abroad at a waterpark rather than the in UK on a lake. Fun for both adults and children, this is a perfect way to spend time outdoors on the water this summer.

Another lesser known water sport in the UK is windsurfing. This is a sport for a dedicated person who has the patience to learn the needed skills. Or it can be a fun way to have a laugh on the water while trying to maintain your balance as to not fall in. Apparently there are many places offering windsurfing lessons and additional support for more experienced windsurfers. Poole Harbour in Dorset is an excellent place to learn how to windsurf and enjoy the scenic waters. The large natural harbour is a popular place for watersports and tourists to visit, especially in summer months. Book lessons with local centres and begin your experience in the safe shallows of the water, or get advice on where the best places on the water are to windsurf solo. On the other hand, these windsurfing lessons don’t have to be in the sea either, they are far more local than you would expect, for example; Edgbaston Watersports is an outdoor activity centre close to the middle of Birmingham. They provide courses of varying level ranges from beginners to more advanced. You wont need to travel far to enjoy water sports this summer, your local outdoor water centre will do just fine!

Watersports are definitely worth a try this summer, they are something new to try and far more accessible than you would think. There are countless outdoor water centres and natural lakes to enjoy, take advantage of the warm weather and spend your days outside. One thing’s for sure, the water will be a good way to cool off! Have a look around and give one a go, you never know, you may have just found your new summer obsession.