Discover the best places to go paddleboarding in Staffordshire, from peaceful canals to scenic lakes and reservoirs. Find SUP-friendly spots perfect for all skill levels.
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) has grown hugely in popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a relaxing way to spend time on the water, and with boards that are lightweight, inflatable, and easy to transport, it’s a hobby that’s simple to pick up and take anywhere.
While Staffordshire might not have a coastline, it more than makes up for it with some fantastic paddleboarding locations. From peaceful lakes to gentle rivers and scenic reservoirs, there are plenty of calm, beautiful spots to get out on the water; and, in many ways, paddleboarding inland can be much more relaxing than dealing with the waves at sea.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best places to go paddleboarding in Staffordshire. A few of these, such as Whitmore Lakes, Pillaton Farm, and Chasewater Reservoir, also feature on our guide to the best wild swimming spots in Staffordshire. As a side note, paddleboarding is not permitted at Barton Marina or Westport Lake.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, but we receive a small commission.
Do you need a license to paddleboard?
You will need a licence (Waterways license) if you plan to paddle on some waterways in England and Wales. The licence costs £47 for the year when you purchase through Paddle UK.
1. Pillaton Hall Farm
Click here for location
Click here for more information and to book
Pillaton Farm offers self launch sessions and provides an opportunity to use your own paddleboard, or inflatable kayak in the activity pool. This is also one of favourite campsites in Staffordshire and a great spot for open water swimming.
You must have your own individual paddleboarding equipment and you must have a buoyancy aid for these sessions. Sessions are supervised by a lifeguard and water safety team and are available from April 2025 to September 2025. Children aged 6-8 years can share a board with an adult 18+.
There is also the option to hire a SUP. Prices are £15.00 plus booking fee – adult (age 14+)and junior (age 8 – 13 years) and £5.00 plus booking fee – child passenger (age 6-7 years)
2. Chasewater Reservoir
Click here for location
Click here for more information and to book
Chasewater is a large reservoir that offers plenty of space for paddleboarding. It’s an excellent spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Pier 52 offer lessons if it is your first time on a paddleboard, you can also hire your SUP too. If you are already a SUPer, you own your own board and you are looking for an independent paddle you can pay £15 for 2 hours on your SUP.
3. Whitmore Lakes
Click here for location
Click here for more information and to book
Whitmore Lakes, located in Whitmore, Newcastle-under-Lyme, is one of Staffordshire’s top spots for outdoor swimming and paddleboarding.
Grebe Lake offers a peaceful setting with a 200-metre canal leading into a 1.5-acre lake, with water depths between 6-8 feet. The site is well set up for safety, with a clear entry/exit point and two additional emergency exits.
Parking is free, and if you don’t have your own gear, you can even hire a paddleboard (complete with a life jacket). After your swim or paddle, head over to the Cake Shack for a well-earned drink and a slice of something sweet.
4. Rudyard Lake
Click here for location
Click here for more information and to book
Rudyard Lake covers some 168 acres and is over 2.5 miles long. It is owned by the Canal & River Trust and the commercial leisure activities are managed by Rudyard Lake Ltd. There is so much to do at Rudyard Lake, including sailing, boat hire, fishing, cycling and a steam train. Of course, it’s also a popular place for paddleboarding in Staffordshire.
f you’re bringing your own canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, you’ll need to purchase a day launch ticket for £12. This covers one person for the day (9:00am – 5:00pm), includes parking at the Dam Head, and provides life jacket rental. Just be aware that the Dam Head car park closes at 5:30pm.
And yes, dogs are welcome on your paddleboard, but it’s entirely at your own risk, so please take extra care while out on the water.
There are a number of places around the lake where you can grab a bite to eat or you can pack a picnic and sit at one of the benches/ picnic tables around the lake.
5. Tittesworth Reservoir
Click here for location
Click here for more information and to book
Tittesworth Water Sports and Activity Centre is based on the shores of Tittesworth Reservoir, near Leek in Staffordshire. The reservoir is Staffordshire’s second largest at 190 acres and managed by Severn Trent Water, renowned for its stunning views of The Roaches, a dramatic gritstone edge, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Launch your own canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard (SUP) at Tittesworth Water Sports and Activity Centre. However, do make sure you book in advance online. Tickets include parking during your activity, access to toilet and changing facilities and safety cover whilst on the water.
Please note, you must have your own buoyancy aids or PFD belts to go on the water or the jetty and they must be worn by all water users at all times. Prices start from £13.00.
If you don’t have your own paddleboard you can also book taster sessions for paddle boarding and kayak taster sessions. There are also SUP pilates sessions available, for something a little bit different (email Sarah for more information).
There are a number of places around the lake where you can grab a bite to eat or you can pack a picnic and sit at one of the benches/ picnic tables around the lake.
6. Trent and Mersey Canal
For a gentle, scenic paddle, the Trent and Mersey Canal is a fantastic choice. Stretching across Staffordshire, this historic waterway offers a peaceful route through rolling countryside, past charming villages, and alongside remnants of the area’s industrial heritage. With its calm, narrow waters, the canal is ideal for paddleboarders of all abilities, whether you’re a beginner looking for a steady spot to practice or an experienced paddler after a longer adventure.
There are plenty of places to launch along the canal, with popular spots near Stone, Great Haywood, and Fradley Junction. Wherever you start, you’re guaranteed a relaxing trip with beautiful views.
As always on canals, stay aware of narrowboats and other traffic, give way where needed, and be respectful of other users. You’ll also need a license to paddle along here legally, so make sure you’re covered before setting off.
Before your go, check out these useful reads for your visit:
