On the Water

On the Water Experiences

There are so many different ways to enjoy being on the water in the South East of England.  With its 400 miles of stunning coastline, rivers, lakes, canals and ponds there is no excuse not to spend some time messing about in or on the water. 

Whether you choose to enjoy a sightseeing boat trip down or the thrill of kite surfing, exploring off the beaten track in a kayak or reconnecting with nature fishing in or on the water, there is a diverse choice of experiences to enjoy.   

Take a look at our 10 great places and ‘On the Water Experiences’ to enjoy.

Lee on Solent & Stokes Bay, Hampshire – Kayaking & Paddleboarding 

Lee-on-the-Solent & Stokes Bay in Hampshire is well known for it’s on the water connections being the base for world-class sailing stars such as Alex Thomson & Sir Robin Knox – Johnston.  With a variety of organisations providing hire, taster days, experiences and formal training it is a great place to visit for an on the water experience

Bewl Water, 1066 Country, Sussex – Fishing

One of the premier lakes to enjoy fishing Bewl Water in Sussex is a 770-acre reservoir in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.   Situated near the picturesque town of Lamberhurst, Bewl Water is an hour's drive of Tunbridge Wells and Hastings and makes for a great day out on the Kent and Sussex border. 

Littlehampton Harbour, Sussex - Dingy Sailing

Offering sea sailing club or river sailing when conditions are bad, there are a number of yacht clubs in Littlehampton harbour. Arun Yacht club offers launching from the secure dinghy compound over a firm, sandy beach into the River Arun - from there it is a short sail through the harbour arms to the open sea.

Windsor, Berkshire - Boat trips on the River 

There is nothing like spending time exploring a fantastic location from the water.  Whether you choose to join one of the two scheduled services running to Windsor from Maidenhead or Runnymede or hire a boat for the day and go on your own on the water adventure.  Travelling along the River Thames has it all, great history, great pubs and gastro delights, rowing or motorized boats to enjoy.

Visit Thames, Berkshire - Boating Holidays 

You don’t have to just spend a few hours or a day messing about on the water - why not make a whole holiday on it. Holiday on England’s greatest river, the River Thames reaches from the Cotswolds to London, so you can travel in style and comfort, enjoying beautiful countryside, royal locations and famous sites on route.

Hove, Sussex - Wakeboarding 

Experience the adrenaline rush and fun of wakeboarding at Lagoon Watersports in Hove.  From taster experiences to learn to packages, plus the chance for the more experienced to join the regular one hour open sessions, all levels and abilities are welcome here.

Isle of Wight - Sailing 

Ask anyone who has a keen interest in sailing if they have heard of the Solent and the Isle of Wight then it will be a definite yes.  Home to Cowes and the annual Round the Island Yacht race, it is a mecca for sailing enthusiast of all abilities as well as a hub for water sports. If you have the nautical know-how, the Isle of Wight is one of the best places to sail to, offering a warm welcome all year round. 

Camber, 1066 Country, Sussex – Kitesurfing 

Start your kitesurfing adventures on the beautiful beaches of Camber Sands and Greatstone,   Whether you want to try this fusion sport for the first time, join a kite buggy course or powerkite experience, Camber is just one hour from London and 20 minutes from Rye

Windsor, Berkshire – Open Water Swimming

A uniquely different experience to swimming in a pool, open water swimming gives an immense sense of freedom and exhilaration from not being confined.  Join the open water swimming centre which operates at Bray Lake, where professional coaches welcome swimmers of all abilities.

Visit Thames, Berkshire - Do it yourself boat hire

A do it yourself trip down the River Thames allows you to take control, have fun, do some exercise or return to a bygone era.  With a choice of boats to suit your mood, party size and requirements you can head out onto the water for a couple of hours, half day or full day.

Remember there are always risks involved in being on the water and correct safety equipment and training is essential.  Take time to plan ahead before you visit and know before you go.  Check tide times , check what facilities are open before you travel, and please follow the countryside code.