I’ve only been out on a paddleboard a couple of times. The first was on a holiday in South Wales with friends, where we hired a few and took them out on the sea. The second was on my solo trip around Scotland where a lovely couple lent me theirs whilst they had lunch – both times I was in my element and felt completely at peace.
When my friend Luci suggested we met up in the Peaks and got out on the boards, I was all for it. We went to Tittesworth and I hired a SUP from the water sports centre. It cost me £10 and this included all the equipment (board, paddle and life vest) , parking, toilets and changing rooms. You could also hire a wetsuit for a minimal fee, but we both have our own.
The reservoir is huge and you have the beautiful backdrop of the Peaks, so it’s a great way to spend a few hours (and get some exercise in). The team have also done a great job in setting up the centre for social distancing, without it having any impact on the experience.
I am by no means an expert, but I can stand up and feel pretty steady on my feet. There was quite a strong wind when we were there, so there were some currents. It was definitely a lot easier paddling down the water compared to coming back up! But this is all great practice for me for when I make my big move to Cornwall!
If you want to make it a whole day out, there are some amazing walks nearby, including Hen Cloud, the Roaches and Lud’s Church.
I am also super excited as I have signed up for a SUP Pilates class out on the reservoir, which will definitely be testing my core and balance! For more information on it, check out Sarah’s Instagram.
I can’t wait to get out on a board again, and hopefully eventually get my own. Where is your favourite place to paddleboard?
Lisa Outdoors 
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