My SUP Stories

A New Series: Real Paddlers, Real Routes

I’m starting a new blog series celebrating people who’ve made SUP part of their lives. Not pros. Not influencers. Just real paddlers, finding joy on the water. Each post will share why they paddle and their favourite route, one they’d recommend to two others, who I’ll then interview next. Stories and routes, passed from one paddleboarder to another.

Is it strange to begin with myself? Maybe. But here it goes.

Where It All Began

I’m Anu and I live in Richmond. Back in 2010, I was on a beach in Hawaii when I saw a middle-aged guy carrying what looked like a giant surfboard and a paddle. He stepped onto the water, stood up and paddled out like it was the most natural thing in the world. Graceful glide. I was mesmerised.

It took another year before I got to try SUP for myself, on a beginner’s lesson in Falmouth with Sean White (check out his venture Soak in Torquay). My legs were shaking, I kept falling off, but by the end of the session, I stood up. And just like that, I was hooked. Why? I’m still figuring that out.

Over the years, I’ve tried all sorts of hobbies. I’m one of those people who dive in deep, then just… move on. But SUP stuck. I’m glad it did. It’s brought me everyday adventures and a brilliant group of paddle friends.

Urban London Route

I love an urban paddle. In fact, I’ve just finished writing a manuscript for a guidebook of paddle routes around Greater London. One of my favourites is the Limehouse Loop, a 10-km circular route that captures so many sides of the city. There’s gritty history, bold street art, calm waterways and pockets of nature, all mixed in with new developments and London’s hum in the background.

I usually start in Hackney Wick and follow the loop clockwise, with a spin around the Olympic Stadium. From there, it’s onto the Lee Navigation, Limehouse Cut, Limehouse Basin, Regent’s Canal and back via the Hertford Union Canal. If you don’t have your own kit, the good folks on the Milk Float can help you get onto the water with hires. They do a great after-paddle cocktail, too.

Passing the Paddle

The two people I’d like to take on this route are my SUP buddies, Louise and Tilda. I hope to introduce them soon and share their paddle stories. Stay tuned.