So it seems that paddle boarding has become really popular over lockdown and I have received lots of messages about my adventures so I thought I would share my favourite one.
I would have usually packed up the van and gone off to North Wales and explored there before looking at what's on my door step, but thanks to lockdown it has given me a new love for Shropshire and visiting places I have never been to before!
Who would have thought some of the best adventure would be on your doorstep!
Saturday was by far my favourite paddle to date! For me personally, I love getting out on the canals or rivers as it feels like you are going on a proper adventure somewhere rather than being on a lake and going round in circles.
We went on the Shropshire Union Canal starting at Turley Locks near Market Drayton. Parking was easy and right by the lock (make sure you don't park in the residents parking bay) so we were able to pump up and launch by the beautiful Victorian Houses on Turley Wharf.
We headed off south towards Cheswardine it was lovely to see a bustling canal. The other parts of the canals we have been on have been predominately disused but we were welcomed by all the barge owners who chatted away as we passed.
The canal boasts huge sandstone bridges and Narnia feels offering picture perfect views.
There's a pub en route called the Wharf Tavern - It's literally a case of pulling up on the water and hoping off, which in different circumstances we would have stopped at. But for us a SUP adventure would not be complete if we didn't park up under a bridge dodging the rain to have a coffee.
If you are thinking about heading out on the canals, you do need a licence to paddle or kayak etc from the Canal & River Trust - I got myself a 30 day explorer licence for about £40. This doesn't need to be used on consecutive days, but you can find out more information here: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/boating/buy-your-boat-licence/short-term-visitor-licences
I cannot wait to explore more of the UK waters.
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