Stand-Up Paddleboarding Touring in Hertfordshire: Exploring the Tranquility of Long-Distance Paddling

Stand-up paddleboarding touring is an engaging, adventurous form of paddleboarding that involves covering long distances on calm waters, often in scenic or natural environments. In contrast to regular paddleboarding on lakes or coastal shores, stand-up paddleboarding touring allows participants to immerse themselves in nature, taking on longer journeys, and potentially discovering hidden waterways, wildlife, and isolated spots. Hertfordshire, a county in southern England, is a perfect location for stand-up paddleboarding touring enthusiasts looking for serene paddling routes surrounded by quintessential English countryside. From rivers meandering through historic towns to peaceful lakes, Hertfordshire offers a range of stand-up paddleboarding touring opportunities.

Why Hertfordshire for SUP Touring?

Hertfordshire’s rich natural beauty, abundant waterways, and proximity to London make it an ideal location for SUP touring. With rivers like the River Lea and River Stort, and a variety of lakes and canals, Hertfordshire offers routes that are scenic, relatively safe, and suitable for paddlers of different skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner paddler seeking calm, gentle waters or a more experienced paddler looking for a longer, more challenging route, Hertfordshire has something to offer.

The county’s combination of waterways surrounded by fields, forests, and historic sites adds a unique flavour to the paddleboarding experience. You may paddle through areas that are centuries old, passing under ancient bridges, alongside old mills, or through stretches of rural beauty that feel untouched by time.

SUP Touring: The Essentials

Before diving into the specific locations and routes that Hertfordshire offers, it’s essential to understand the key elements of SUP touring.

• The Right Board for Touring: SUP touring boards are distinct from regular recreational boards. They are typically longer (about 12 to 14 feet) and have a pointier nose to allow for greater glide and efficiency in covering long distances. These boards are also designed for stability and speed, making them perfect for calm rivers or lakes. When planning a touring trip, always make sure your board is suited for the length and conditions of your route.
• Paddles: A good touring paddle is lightweight and designed for efficiency. Touring paddles are usually carbon fibre or fibreglass and should be adjustable so you can optimise for the type of water and conditions you’re encountering.
• Safety Gear: Long-distance paddleboarding means you’re away from shore for extended periods. Make sure to have proper safety gear, including a leash (which keeps you connected to the board), a personal flotation device (PFD), and depending on the water temperature, appropriate clothing like a wetsuit. For touring, it’s also advisable to have a waterproof bag with essentials such as a first-aid kit, mobile phone in a waterproof case, water, snacks, and a map of your route.
• Physical Preparation: SUP touring can be a full-body workout, engaging your core, arms, shoulders, and legs, but it’s also an endurance activity. Start with shorter routes if you’re a beginner, gradually building up your stamina. It’s essential to understand that long-distance paddling will test your fitness, so ensure you’re physically prepared before attempting longer trips.

Top SUP Touring Routes in Hertfordshire

The River Lea

One of the most popular waterways for SUP in Hertfordshire, the River Lea offers a picturesque journey through both rural and urban landscapes. The river flows from Luton through Hertfordshire and into Greater London, where it eventually joins the River Thames.

Starting Point: Hertford

The river’s journey begins in Hertford, a charming town known for its historical buildings and the Hertford Castle. Paddleboarders often begin their journey here, making their way downstream through Ware and Broxbourne.

Route Highlights:

• Hertford to Ware: This is a relatively short segment (about 3 miles) but perfect for those new to touring. The waters are calm, and you’ll pass through quiet countryside, under historic bridges, and by riverside pubs.
• Ware to Broxbourne: The route from Ware to Broxbourne (around 5 miles) takes you through more rural beauty, with the river meandering through scenic fields and woodlands. This stretch is ideal for those seeking peace and tranquility. Broxbourne offers plenty of opportunities for a rest stop or to explore the Lee Valley Country Park nearby.

Extended Route: For experienced paddlers, continue downstream through to Tottenham Marshes in London (around 10-12 miles from Broxbourne). This extended route is a longer, more challenging paddle but offers a journey through increasingly urban areas, contrasting with the peacefulness of Hertfordshire’s countryside.

Wildlife: The River Lea is home to a variety of wildlife, including swans, herons, and kingfishers. If you’re lucky, you may also spot otters or mink along the banks.

The River Stort

The River Stort is a tributary of the River Lea, running from Bishops Stortford down to Hoddesdon. SUP touring on the Stort is a more intimate and peaceful experience compared to the Lea, with narrower waterways and fewer crowds.

Starting Point: Bishop’s Stortford

The town of Bishop’s Stortford is a beautiful starting point for a River Stort paddleboarding journey. From here, the river flows south, offering a quiet and scenic paddle through the countryside.

Route Highlights:

• Bishop’s Stortford to Sawbridgeworth: This stretch of the river (about 4 miles) is a fantastic route for SUP touring beginners or for those looking for a serene day out on the water. You’ll glide through idyllic meadows, past historical buildings, and alongside tranquil woodland.
• Sawbridgeworth to Harlow: Continuing on from Sawbridgeworth towards Harlow (about 5 miles), the river takes you through slightly more urbanised areas. However, the River Stort remains mostly unspoiled, making this route peaceful and ideal for those who want to combine natural beauty with some light urban exploration.

Extended Route: For more experienced paddlers, you can continue further towards Rye House and Hoddesdon (around 6-8 miles from Harlow). This longer route will challenge your endurance while offering diverse scenery, ranging from open fields to more built-up areas.

Wildlife: Like the River Lea, the River Stort is a haven for wildlife. Look out for birds like moorhens, mallards, and possibly the occasional deer grazing near the water’s edge.

Rickmansworth Aquadrome and the Grand Union Canal

Rickmansworth Aquadrome is a hidden gem for paddleboarding in Hertfordshire. The Aquadrome itself has two large lakes, Batchworth and Bury, both ideal for a more relaxed paddleboarding session. However, for SUP touring, the nearby Grand Union Canal provides an excellent, calm-water route for longer journeys.

Starting Point: Rickmansworth

Begin your SUP tour at Rickmansworth, paddling either the lakes in the Aquadrome or heading directly onto the Grand Union Canal.

Route Highlights:

• Rickmansworth to Cassiobury Park, Watford: Paddle along the Grand Union Canal from Rickmansworth to Cassiobury Park in Watford (approximately 6 miles). This route is ideal for paddlers looking for a gentle, long-distance paddle without strong currents or complex navigation. The canal passes through quiet suburban areas, wooded sections, and alongside houseboats, giving you a unique perspective on canal life.
• Rickmansworth to Hemel Hempstead: For a more challenging route, continue paddling north towards Hemel Hempstead (about 10 miles). This longer stretch offers a mix of scenic countryside, wooded areas, and stretches through more industrialised sections of the canal. The calm waters of the Grand Union Canal make it perfect for touring, even for beginners who want to push themselves.

Wildlife: The Rickmansworth Aquadrome and Grand Union Canal are excellent for spotting waterfowl like ducks, geese, and swans. The lakes in the Aquadrome are also a popular fishing spot, so you might see anglers enjoying a peaceful day by the water.

Planning a Successful SUP Touring Trip in Hertfordshire

SUP touring in Hertfordshire is a fantastic way to experience the county’s natural beauty, but it’s important to plan ahead to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before embarking on a long-distance paddle. Hertfordshire can experience unpredictable weather, so make sure to plan your trip for a day when conditions are calm, and wind speeds are low.
• Know Your Route: Whether you’re paddling the River Lea, the River Stort, or the Grand Union Canal, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the route. Check maps, plan rest stops, and identify potential hazards like low bridges, weirs, or areas with heavy boat traffic.
• Permits and Licenses: For many of the rivers and canals in Hertfordshire, including the River Lea and the Grand Union Canal, you will need a waterways license. You can purchase this through British Canoeing, which offers an annual membership that covers most waterways in the UK.
• Pack Essentials: A dry bag with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a mobile phone is a must for any SUP touring trip. Also, carry a map or GPS to ensure you stay on course, and let someone know your route and estimated return time for safety reasons.

In conclusion, SUP touring in Hertfordshire offers paddleboarders the opportunity to explore peaceful rivers, scenic canals, and tranquil lakes, all within a backdrop of stunning countryside and charming historical sites. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a newcomer to the sport, Hertfordshire’s diverse waterways offer something for everyone. With proper preparation and the right equipment, you can enjoy a unique perspective on the county’s natural beauty, all while benefiting from the physical and mental health benefits that SUP touring provides.

For more information on Stand-Up Paddleboarding Touring contact Herts Young Mariners Base.

See all our Stand-Up Paddleboarding Courses at Herts Young Mariners Base.