Spot Guide: North East England
Continuing our series with PaddleUK. Here are a mix of routes to check out next time you are in the NE of England. We asked Anna Little, to offer some suggestions. From river cruising to some advanced ocean paddling, this guide has it all whether you are local or just visiting. Keep an eye out for awesome coastal paddle events, the Big Dippa and Beadnell Belta too! For a range of abilities as always make sure to check the conditions before you go! Have fun!
all images courtesy of Anna Little
Hexham
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This is a gentle river paddle ideal for those fairly new to paddlesports. Be careful always to head upstream away from the weir. Park at the rowing club and launch at the jetty. The river offers a few breaks to explore, 500m up the river you can stop on a stoney island, or you can continue paddling up towards the old bridge at Warden. Make sure before you head out to check conditions and flow of the river.
Newburn to Wylam
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This is a peaceful, beautiful paddle up the Tyne Valley. On a high tide you can get all the way upstream to Wylam and back. Giving you a paddle of around 10km. You do have to paddle this route on a high tide as the last 2km towards Wylam gets shallow when the tide is out, it is also a lot easier to launch on high tide. Park at the rowing club in Newburn or Newburn country park.
Newburn to Newcastle
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If you fancy a longer adventure, from the same put in, you can paddle downstream with the tide under the spectacular Tyne Bridges all the way to Newcastle. This is a one way paddle so make sure you are organised and leave cars at the end point. Don’t forget the keys! One note, on Exit at St. Peters Basin, it is always wise to call them to ask permission to use their jetty before you head off. A stunning paddle up through Newcastle City.
Whitley Bay
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Heading to the coast, Whitley Bay offers a short coastal trip from the Spanish City car park, enter the water by Northerly Swell, be sure to pop in and check out the Surf Shop and get any local knowledge. Off the beach you can turn left and paddle north towards St Marys light house, following the coastline. When you get to the lighthouse you can turn back and head across the bay or retrace your paddle.
Beadnell, Northumberland
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A beautiful bay. Here you can stay in the bay and paddle south for about 2km looking towards Dunstanburgh Castle. Always check the conditions and make sure you look at tide times, wind direction and swell forecasts. If you want to make a day of it, keep on and paddle to Low Newton where you can stop at the pub for lunch. If you love wildlife, be sure to keep your eyes on the look out for seals and dolphins. Remember these tips for interacting with marine life.
Farne Islands, Northumberland
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While not a long paddle necessarily, this one is definitely for more experienced and advanced paddlers as the route heads off shore. Start at the beach just North of Seahouses, paddle directly out towards the Farnes. We love this paddle looking towards Bamburgh Castle. As you approach the islands, you might be keen to explore and enjoy the birdlife. However be careful not to land on the islands or disturb nesting birds. Due to the nature of this route, make sure you understand the impact of tides, wind and swell in the area. Make sure you paddle within your competency and as always take a means of communication and recommended safety precautions.
