Kayaking UK - United Kingdom

Kayaking in the UK is a celebration of the richness of British geography. The British Isles are host to many spectacular kayaking sites, all of which are unspoiled waters teeming with an abundance of sea birds and marine life. Several kayaking groups in the UK have paved the way for the sport to become extremely popular, especially for sea kayaking. The UK's beaches make for perfect kayaking conditions, not only for their waters, but also for their picturesque scenery.

Here are a few top spots in the archipelago that attract kayaking enthusiasts from the world over:

• The Outer Hebrides, a 150-mile long island chain off the North West coast of Scotland is rich in culture and history, and is also one of the most beautiful of places for sea kayaking. Its white virgin beaches, rugged landscapes and archaeological sites are a kayaker's dream. Its isles are home to a variety of dolphins, whales, dolphins, seals, otters, as well as birds such as puffins. Kayaking adventures on the Outer Hebrides come in all varieties, ranging from pleasant paddles through idyllic waters to to extensive expeditions set against a background of natural wonders.
• The Isle of Man is another destination for kayaking in the UK, located at heart of the British Isles. Featuring a beautiful, rugged coastline, it is a haven for basking sharks during the warm summer months. The Isles of Scilly is likewise a warm archipelago with favorable weather that is warm and sunny unlike the rest of the UK, making it ideal for paddling all year round.
• Anglesey is a little island that offers a complete sea kayak expedition around its coast. A 90-mile kayaking circumnavigation route of the island opens up kayakers to the tidal streams of the Menai Straits, which flow between Anglesey and the mainland. It takes about a day to complete this entire expedition. Those who prefer a less intense experience can do a round-trip paddle instead to the impressive Parliament Cave in Gogarth Bay. With such a variety of kayaking options, Anglesey is truly a hot spot for sea kayaking.

Shetland's islands have a pleasantly mild climate. Its rugged coast has been shaped by the ocean swell, and its sea cliffs are interspersed with beaches along the coastline. Its sheer number of sea caves are its main attraction, all of which are hundreds of meters long. These are a sight to behold, especially those caves with collapsed roofs and passages that lend a window for sunlight to shine through into the crystalline waters below.

Cornwall is a kayaking paradise that abounds in myth and legend. With its rugged cliffs, white sandy beaches, mysterious coves and rich wildlife, Cornwall has something for every kind of paddler, whether beginner or pro. The Cornish Peninsula consists of diverse environments, which allows adventure-seekers to match the weather and sea conditions to the type of kayaking trip they wish to make.

Indeed, the UK is unmatched by other European countries for its many kayak-friendly haunts. Many more kayaking sites can be recommended by adventure or outdoor clubs that cater to the sport. It would be good to look up those in you area, since the best way to start kayaking in the UK is by joining a local club that offers training for mastery the basic skills.