About Islandeering
Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.
More About UsWe continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.
About Sussex
Sussex, a captivating county in southern England, is a treasure trove for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. From its rolling hills and iconic chalk cliffs to its tranquil woodlands and seaside towns, Sussex offers an abundance of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
The South Downs National Park is the crown jewel of Sussex. Its sweeping chalk landscapes, ancient woodlands, and hidden valleys provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and cycling. Highlights include the dramatic Seven Sisters cliffs, offering breathtaking views over the English Channel, and Devil’s Dyke, a deep valley steeped in legend and perfect for panoramic walks. The park’s charming villages, such as Alfriston and Ditchling, invite visitors to pause and soak in the countryside ambiance over a pint or cream tea.
Paddleboarding in Sussex
Sussex’s coastline adds another layer of adventure. The seaside towns of Brighton and Eastbourne are beloved for their vibrant piers, shingle beaches, and water sports opportunities, including paddleboarding and kayaking. Farther along the coast, Cuckmere Haven presents a hidden estuary at the foot of the stunning chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters, ideal for bracing or wildlife spotting. Nearby, Birling Gap offers access to the dramatic cliffs of the Seven Sisters, perfect for walking or simply enjoying the awe-inspiring scenery.
For a quieter escape, the beaches of West Sussex, such as West Wittering, provide wide expanses of golden sand and are perfect for families, birdwatchers, and water sports enthusiasts. The area’s tidal creeks and salt marshes, like those found at Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve, are magnets for wildlife, offering a peaceful retreat for walkers and photographers alike.
Sussex’s rich history is also a huge draw for visitors. Sites such as Bodiam Castle and the historic town of Rye are set amidst picturesque landscapes, offering a perfect mix of exploration and relaxation.
Islands in Sussex
Sussex also has a secret island, Thorney Island, a military base and wilderness that juts into Chichester Harbour. It is very popular with birdwatchers, wild swimmers and best know for the Thorney Island Walk.
In summary, Sussex is a county of striking contrasts and abundant natural treasures. Whether you’re wandering the South Downs, exploring its rugged coastline, or uncovering hidden gems in its charming villages, Sussex promises outdoor adventures and moments of peace in equal measure.
Where to go Paddleboarding in Sussex
We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found on our Route Map page
Explore the joys of paddle boarding in Sussex, in some of the most scenic paddle boarding spots in the UK, with its stunning white chalk cliffs, vibrant beaches, historic canal, medieval ports, and serene rivers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, Sussex’s diverse waters offers something for everyone.
There are coastal paddle boarding adventures all along the world-famous white-cliffs from Cuckmere to the Birling Gap, along with West Wittering, Brighton and Hove. There are trips through nature reserves teeming with wildlife, from Pagham and Chichester Harbours to Ardingly Reservoir. There are watersports lakes like Bewl Water and Camber Northpoint, and canals like the Chichester Ship Canal. The Sussex paddleboarding routes also take in beautiful towns and villages like Alfriston, Rye, and Arundel – all sheer joy when seen from the water.
Here are some of our favourite paddles in Sussex:
Chichester Ship Canal
Chichester Harbour Dell Quay to Bosham
West Wittering
Pagham Harbour
River Arun Pulborough to Stopham Bridge
River Arun Arundel to Black Rabbit
Southwick to Brighton
River Adur Shoreham to Upper Beeding
Bewl Water
River Ouse Lewes to Hamsey Island Loop
Ardingly Reservoir
River Ouse Barcombe Mills to Isfield
Cuckmere Meanders
Cuckmere Exceat to Seven Sisters
Cuckmere River Exceat to Alfriston
River Rother Rye and Rye Harbour
Camber Northpoint Rye
