Dan
A brilliant course run by the excellent Sean. His knowledge and experience shone through all the time and he really made the course a valuable learning tool.
This award helps you build the skills and confidence to plan and paddle a Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) safely in sheltered waters. You will learn how to make informed decisions, navigate pre-determined routes, and adapt to changing conditions for an enjoyable time on the water.
The course develops your ability to plan and carry out a safe SUP trip up to 200 metres from the shore, in winds up to force 3. You will gain confidence in identifying safe exit points, considering external and environmental factors, and applying rescue techniques where necessary. Emphasis is placed on anticipating potential problems and adjusting your approach to maintain safety and enjoyment.
Sessions focus on a mix of theory and practical skills. You will cover location and weather considerations, suitable equipment and clothing, safety and rescue, body and paddle positioning, forward paddling, manoeuvring, and group coordination. Each session builds on the last, encouraging gradual and steady improvement so you continue developing long-term skills and confidence.
Your time on the water will be varied and engaging, with each day offering different conditions and challenges. This ensures that learning remains practical and adaptive, and no two experiences are ever the same. Use the booking form below to send your details, and the team will provide a customised price and session plan.
The course takes place across some of the most beautiful lakes in Cumbria, with likely venues including Derwentwater, Ullswater, and Windermere. These lakes offer sheltered water conditions ideal for developing and practising your SUP skills in a safe environment.
Cumbria provides a mix of open water and quieter inlets, allowing you to experience a range of conditions while remaining within a controlled setting. The natural surroundings also give you space to focus on technique, decision-making, and group coordination without unnecessary pressure or risk.
No prior SUP experience is required, although participants should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable in water.
It is important to be prepared for outdoor activity and to wear appropriate clothing for lake conditions. Enthusiasm for learning and willingness to participate fully in the sessions is essential.
Founded in 2005 by Level 5 Coach Sean McGrath, the centre is an independent provider of paddlesport coaching, guiding, and Paddle UK awards. They are committed to delivering high-quality coaching through experienced and qualified staff, ensuring each participant receives personalised guidance.
Based in the English Lake District, the centre offers flexible services for anyone wishing to take part in canoeing, kayaking, or SUP activities. Whether you are seeking advanced paddling assessments, training, or leisurely sessions, they focus on providing the best experience tailored to your skills and needs.
No prior SUP experience is required to take part in this award. The course is designed to guide beginners through the fundamentals, covering everything from basic paddling techniques to planning safe trips in sheltered waters. You will be supported by a qualified instructor throughout, so learning at your own pace is encouraged.
Participants are expected to be reasonably fit and comfortable in the water. The sessions gradually build skills, so even complete beginners will develop confidence and proficiency. By the end of the course, you should be able to paddle safely, assess environmental conditions, and perform basic rescue techniques.
All necessary SUP equipment is provided, including the board, paddle, and buoyancy aid. Participants should wear clothing suitable for being on the water, which may get wet, and should bring footwear that can be worn in shallow water or on slippery surfaces.
Optional items include a wetsuit, hat, sunscreen, or waterproof jacket depending on the weather conditions. Personal items like water bottles and snacks are also recommended, particularly for longer sessions, though these are not provided by the centre.
The award is delivered on a selection of Cumbria’s lakes, with likely venues including Derwentwater, Ullswater, and Windermere. These locations offer sheltered water conditions that are ideal for learning and practising SUP skills safely.
Each venue provides a slightly different environment, helping participants experience a variety of conditions while remaining within a controlled, safe setting. The lakes are chosen to ensure calm water for skill development while offering opportunities to practise navigation, group coordination, and rescue techniques.
Safety is a central focus of the course. Participants are provided with a buoyancy aid and guidance on correct body, paddle, and foot positioning. The instructor monitors conditions and group performance, offering practical tips and interventions as needed.
You will also learn key rescue techniques and how to assess environmental and weather conditions. This ensures that you are equipped to make safe decisions on the water, identify exit points, and respond effectively to any challenges during your SUP session.
The award combines practical paddling with theory, covering navigation, equipment, safety, and environmental factors. Each session builds on the last, with a steady, gradual approach that allows participants to develop skills without feeling rushed.
Training is hands-on and flexible, allowing the instructor to tailor the pace and content to the group’s needs. By the end of the course, participants will have the confidence to plan and execute a safe SUP trip up to 200 metres from shore, in winds up to force 3, with the ability to adapt to changing conditions.
A brilliant course run by the excellent Sean. His knowledge and experience shone through all the time and he really made the course a valuable learning tool.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
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Operated by Wild River, a partner of adventuro.
Howtown, Penrith
From £249
