My SUP Stories

One day I will be a paddleboarder with a decked-out camper van. My van will be called ‘Wanderlust Wheels’. It will have solar panels and the trendiest coffee-making gadget. I’ll seek out the best paddle spots and explore crystal-clear lakes, meandering rivers and scenic coastlines. But until then, my everyday SUP life in London is a whole different story:

Storage is a nightmare in my first floor one-bed flat. No outdoor space either. My two boards live in the living room, competing for space with two folding bikes. Paddles are hung on the wall like art. Wet drysuits, wetsuits and booties during the cold season are a permanent fixture in the bathroom.

Travelling to SUP spots without a car means navigating packed rush hour tubes, trains and buses. I now choose my stations strategically based on gear-friendly accessibility. Step-free access all the way. I’m mentally prepared to endure glares from other commuters as I awkwardly maneuver my way through the crowd muttering, “Excuse me, sorry, pardon me.”

Coming up with a good launch spot can be a challenge. No pristine coastline here. My go-to waterways are the Thames and local canals, but finding a place to inflate my board is a mission in itself. Canals are easy, but I have to be prepared for frequent funny comments from passers-by. Even muddy riverbanks are fine. Now accepting invitations for a spa day for my board in your garden!

Most SUP gear isn’t exactly city-friendly. There is nowhere to leave the wheelie bag and pump. You need to be like a real-life Tetris master cramming everything onto your board. Squeezing it under the bungees requires some creativity, but I get plenty of practice on my usual routes with many portages.

The water in London’s waterways is not as clear as crystal. Dodging random obstacles like shopping carts or rusty Lime bikes in murky brown water is just part of the adventure.

Being a London paddleboarder is worth it, though. It’s a way to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, connect with nature and discover hidden gems. So, if you see me dragging my board through the tube station, give me a smile. You don’t need a beach to ride the waves.

If you liked this story, check these SUP routes: From Barbell to Board (Richmond-Hampton Court) & Rower Central (Putney-Richmond).