Paddling? It’s cool...

Running wild

EVER CONSIDERED taking the plunge and trying paddlesports?

You wouldn’t be alone – kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are among the fastest-growing watersports in the UK.

Testing the water in the south of England couldn’t be easier, with its scenic shoreline, harbours, rivers and canals catering for paddlers of every level – beginner through to advanced.

From gliding along the calm, sheltered Chichester Ship Canal to riding the swell of the sea at Bracklesham or Shoreham and breezing across West Wittering’s sandy tidal pools, families across the south have taken to paddlesports like ducks to water.

Access to so many beautiful waterways and easy to hire (or buy) equipment mean paddlesports can be enjoyed by all – and on a sunny weekend, a day out with paddleboards, kayaks or canoes and family, friends – or even the dog –is eagerly anticipated.

There are numerous paddlesports tuition centres and clubs catering to this growing leisure activity which, according to British Canoeing, has seen a dramatic increase –with a 127% rise in membership since 2020.

A Watersports Participation Survey, in 2021, also estimated that nearly 8 million people across the UK said they had either kayaked or used a canoe or a stand up paddleboard – almost double the figure of the previous year.

“During the lockdowns, more people than ever discovered the fun and enjoyment of paddling,” said Chris Earle, Director of Recreational Paddling at British Canoeing.

“Since restrictions ceased, levels of participation continue to grow.

“Paddling brings health and well-being benefits, encouraging people to get closer to nature and spend time on the water with friends and family.

“It is one of the most accessible and sociable sports and recreation activities out there.”

Simon Bassett, owner of Chichester-based 2XS, co-founder of the British Stand Up Paddle Association (BSUPA) and one of the first people to paddleboard in the UK when the sport landed here from Hawaii 17 years ago, agreed.

“Paddleboarding is something the whole family can do. You don’t have to be really fit – if you can walk you can do it. It’s a bit like cycling – but on water!

“There are a lot of women and girls taking it up because it’s seen as less hardcore than surfing, yet it’s incredibly good for fitness, especially for your core. As you are moving you are correcting your balance, so strength conditioning, and you’re paddling, which is aerobic,” explained Simon.

“It’s also amazing for mental well-being.

When you’re out on the water, away from the phone, it’s such a lovely release. You can completely zone out,” added Simon.

Simon has extensive watersports and coaching experience, even notching up a world record attempt channel crossing in 2010 on a SUP. He set up 2XS in 1989 with his wife, Jane, specialising in SUP, windsurfing, kite surfing and all the associated wetsuits and accessories, as well as a coaching school and hire centre based at West Wittering Beach (www.2xs.co.uk).

The couple have seen a notable rise in demand for both coaching and equipment.

“Paddleboarding has grown, especially through the covid pandemic. In the UK in 2021, around 100,000 paddleboards were sold – 40% more than in 2020. We have also met many people who completely changed their lifestyle and made the choice to move home to be close to the water.”

With the correct equipment, such as wetsuits and safety leashes, paddlesports can be enjoyed all year round. However, as with all active sports, staying safe is vital.

“We would always recommend having a lesson or two first before going out on your own,” advised Simon.

“There’s the speed and flow of rivers to consider, tides and wind direction on the coast – you have to be careful. But there are so many areas of water you can access once you become competent,” he added.

Sasha Chisholm, owner of Moxie Unleashed SUP & Fitness, is based in Hove and runs a range of SUP, fitness and wellbeing activities in her area as well as on the beach in Shoreham and on the rivers Adur, Arun and Cuckmere.

“SUP is easily accessible and suitable for people of all ages and abilities, we’ve taught from seven-year-olds to people in their 80s. It’s also a great all-inclusive activity for the whole family to learn and progress together – even your dog can join in!

“Most watersports are expensive and take a lot of time and effort to master, which can be a bit disheartening. Within two hours of getting on a paddleboard you’re standing up and you’re off.

“We hold sessions on the coast and on the rivers Adur and Arun. If it’s slightly windier, the banks and winding nature of the river provide protection but the tides dictate when we go out: either side of high tide is when the river is calmest and most accessible. There’s so much variety with paddleboarding – from a mindful, tranquil paddle taking you closer to nature on inland waterways to the adrenalin rush of surf to the stamina and fitness required for a sprint race or long-distance event. You can even take yoga, pilates and fitness classes on a SUP to really challenge your core and ‘up’ the intensity of your workout.”

Sasha also runs SUP yoga/pilates sessions, day safaris and SUP and sail adventures in Croatia. For details visit www. moxieunleashed.com.

Prime paddling spots

Chichester Ship Canal

The Chichester Ship Canal runs for 4.5 miles from the Southgate basin in the centre of Chichester to Chichester Harbour at Birdham. Its flat, calm waters (navigable for just over 2 miles) are ideal for beginners and novices or for those seeking a more sheltered paddle and pretty scenery when it’s windy on the coast.

From the water, there are unique views of Chichester cathedral and the South Downs as you glide past wild flowers and reed beds. You may even glimpse herons and kingfishers in their natural habitat.

If you have your own board/canoe/kayak, you’ll need a day pass (£6) or annual licence (£30) to access the canal. All proceeds go towards the upkeep of the canal, which is managed by the Chichester Canal Trust. Licences are available from the Canal Café 7 days a week (for more information, visit www.chichestercanal.org.uk).

Alternatively, Hunston Canoe Club – based at Hunston jetty – is aimed at children, young people and their families (www.hunstoncanoeclub.co.uk) and there’s Chichester Canoe Club (www. chichestercanoeclub.co.uk) for adults which, as well as canal excursions, offers camping trips and touring on the sea.

Wey & Arun Canal

The Wey and Arun canal was completed in 1816, linking the River Wey near Guildford to the South Coast via the River Arun. The route was used to transport goods by boat from London to the South Coast and, at its peak in 1839, carried 23,000 tons of cargo. However, as railways became established, the canal fell into disuse and was formally closed in 1871.

While much of the canal became derelict, the 3.5-mile stretch at Loxwood in West Sussex, between Drungewick Lock and Southland Lock, is ideal for canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. The water here is very tranquil and still, ideal for less experienced paddlers. There are a few locks along the length of the canal which require portaging (carrying your boat) around but there are various access points and landing stages.

Today, the canal is being restored by volunteers from the Wey & Arun Canal Trust, which plans to re-open over half the length of the 23-mile canal.

British Canoeing members can use the Loxwood section and others, as restoration progresses, without charge. For nonmembers, a day licence costs £5 and an annual licence £15. More information is available from the Loxwood Canal Centre or by visiting www.weyarun.org.uk.

River Arun

The River Arun winds its way inland through the West Sussex countryside from the harbour mouth of Littlehampton towards historic Arundel, on towards Amberley, Pulborough and up to Pallingham Quay (just over 40km from Littlehampton).

The Arun is one of the country’s strongest tidal rivers, so it’s best to time your expedition to harness the tide’s power and do the hard work for you. It’s possible to paddle from the river’s mouth in Littlehampton across the beautiful South

Downs, stopping at pubs and tea rooms along the way. The upper reaches of the River Arun, from Pulborough, generally have slow-moving water, with narrow and winding bends and plenty of wildlife to capture the attention.

The lower River Arun, from Littlehampton inland to Arundel allows spectacular views of Arundel Castle and the South Downs.

The Kayak Coach runs kayaking trips on the Arun. Whilst no previous experience is necessary, you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness. For details, visit www. thekayakcoach.com.

You can also hire equipment and learn paddlesports with Fluid Adventures (www. fluidadventures.co.uk).

River Wey

The Wey Navigation, opened in 1653, runs 15.5 miles from Guildford to the River Thames at Weybridge. The Godalming Navigation, opened in 1764, extends the navigable waterway a further 4 miles south to Godalming.

The 20 miles of waterway provide an excellent way to discover Surrey’s towns, villages and countryside. From Godalming Wharf to Shalford (where the Wey connects to the Wey & Arun Canal) is a calm and pleasant stretch with few locks. The river passes through Guildford and towards Ripley and the ruins of Newark Priory. The changing scenery means that there is always plenty to see: a rich variety of wildlife habitats, historic locks and pretty cottages add to the waterway’s character.

All paddlers require a licence for the River Wey and Godalming Navigations.

You can book a portable craft licence online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk. Canoes and kayaks can be hired at Dapdune Wharf, Guildford from Fluid Adventures (www. fluidadventures.co.uk).

River Adur

The River Adur begins as two separate branches, the western Adur and the eastern Adur, which meet 1.2 miles (2km) west of Henfield. The river has some quiet stretches for SUPs, or you can kayak/canoe from Shoreham to Upper Beeding (around 5 miles/9km), enjoy lunch at the local pub and then cruise back, having planned your trip to take advantage of the high tide.

Equipment can be hired from The Kayak Coach at Ashurst, Steyning (www. thekayakcoach.com), or enjoy an organised outing with Moxie Unleashed (www. moxieunleashed.com).

River Cuckmere

The Cuckmere rises near Heathfield in East Sussex on the southern slopes of the Weald. Some stretches are good for novices, with waters just 2-3 feet deep. The river is tidal and winds gently down to the sea at Cuckmere Haven.

In good conditions, there’s a bay below the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs which can be used for kayak surfing. From here, experienced paddlers can head east to Birling Gap or west towards Seaford Head –both directions providing some wonderful coastal scenery.

The Cuckmere Valley Canoe Club, in the Seven Sisters Country Park between Eastbourne and Seaford, offers canoeing, kayaking, sea-kayaking and SUP tuition for all the family (www.cvcc.org.uk). You can also learn/hire with Buzz Active (www. buzzactive.org.uk).

Staying safe

Safety on the water is paramount as strong seas and tidal rivers can be very dangerous if you’re not aware of hazards with the tides, currents and weather. Always have lessons before taking to the water independently and only go alone if you are experienced and competent. Wear the correct clothing, a buoyancy aid, and carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch in case of emergency. For safety guidance visit www. britishcanoeing. org.uk or bsupa.org.uk.

Bracklesham & East Wittering

Bracklesham, in the middle of a wide bay flanked by East Wittering, West Wittering and Selsey, is a mix of pebbles and sand with a gently sloping beach as the tide drops, but deeper water at high tide. It’s a good spot to enjoy some waves and even catch a glimpse of a seal if you’re lucky. About a 45-minute paddle to the east is the Medmerry Nature Reserve where, in the right conditions, you can navigate up a narrow channel and enjoy the multitude of bird life.

East Wittering is a great location for experienced paddlers – set off east towards Selsey and round to Pagham; west toward East Head and Chichester Harbour or go further to Itchenor (2-3 hours depending on the wind and tide). East Wittering can also be good for novices on a calm, sunny day. For equipment hire, try Shore Watersports Hire Centre (www.shore.co.uk).

West Wittering

The gently shelving sandy beach at West Wittering has sand bars that create lagoons – ideal for those making their first forays into paddlesports and surfing – and breaking waves at various states of tide. West Wittering also sits right on the entrance of Chichester Harbour. Due to its exposed nature, it’s often windy. For all your watersports needs, 2xs is on the beach as you enter the main car park (www.2xs.co.uk).

Shoreham & Worthing

A favourite stretch for kayakers and other paddlers tends to be between Shoreham and Worthing, downwind of the prevailing southeast wind, or between Selsey Bill and Littlehampton.

The beaches along the coast at Worthing host several hire centres. Littlehampton’s mile-long gently shelving beach is shallow at low tide and relatively flat for beginners. Littlehampton Harbour is also sheltered.

Wey & Arun Canal

Arundel And West Sussex

Matthew Penfold joined house. Partnership in 2022, as Regional Partner. He was brought up near Worthing and got his first job in estate agency in 1986, and, for the first few years, was based on the West Sussex coast before moving inland to deal with more rural property. Matthew has a huge amount of experience in dealing with a broad range of properties, including country houses, cottages, town houses and residential development sites. He has worked for several well-known independent agencies and was a partner at Cluttons for 10 years. mpenfold@housepartnership.co.uk

Mid And East Sussex

Joining house. Partnership as a Regional Partner in 2022, Simon Henkel has more than 25 years’ experience in property across a range of disciplines including lettings, investment and the prime residential market. Having grown up in Cuckfield, Sussex, he started his agency career in London. After 10 years at the heart of the capital, Simon moved out to work for Hamptons. He then joined Batcheller Monkhouse in 2010, where he became a Partner and ran the Haywards Heath office. Simon has lived with his family in the East Sussex village of Newick for more than 20 years and is actively involved in local life.

shenkel@housepartnership.co.uk

Kent And East Sussex

After graduating, Peter Wright joined the Army on a short service commission serving in Northern Ireland, Gibraltar and the UK. Peter then transitioned into the property industry and spent 18 years as a Director of Mayfair and central London agents. He then spent 19 years in Sussex and Kent, initially setting up Humberts’ Wadhurst and Tenterden offices and ending as Humberts’ South East Managing Director. Before joining house. Partnership in 2019, Peter ran his own Property Search Agency.

pwright@housepartnership.co.uk

Berks And Bucks

Adrian Tendell is the Regional Partner at house. Partnership for country and town houses in the counties of Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. Adrian was born and raised in the area, having grown up in Farnham Royal, attended school in Reading and settled in Windsor. He decided to train as a negotiator at Hamptons in Sunningdale, then worked for Trevor Kent & Co of Gerrards Cross for 18 years, becoming a senior member of the management team.

atendell@housepartnership.co.uk

TThe Queen’s Six was established in 2008, the 450th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth I, from whom they take their name. Based at Windsor Castle, members of The Queen’s Six make up part of the Lay Clerks of St George’s Chapel, whose homes lie within the Castle walls. The Chapel Choir, which consists of boy trebles and twelve professional adult singers, performs some eight services a week, as well as at private and state occasions, often before the Royal Family. In 2018, group members’ duties with the Chapel Choir included singing for the wedding of Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle, now The Duke and Duchess of Sussex; in 2021, three members of the group sang at the funeral of HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh; and in 2022, members of the group sang at the Committal part of the official funeral services for Queen Elizabeth II.

Now Lissie, Tom, Nick, Dom, Andrew and Simon have come together to bring their unique style of entertainment to a much wider audience. Their repertoire extends far beyond the reach of the choir stalls: from austere early chant, florid Renaissance polyphony, lewd madrigals and haunting folk songs, to upbeat Jazz and Pop arrangements. For their 10th anniversary in 2018, the group commissioned new pieces from Nico Muhly and Philip Moore, and arrangements from Alexander L’Estrange. The Queen’s Six has sung at a number of prestigious festivals and venues, including the MET Cloisters in New York City, the Salzburg Bachgesellschaft, the Bermuda Festival, Bayreuth’s Margravial Opera House and St Louis Cathedral Basilica. Upcoming tours include return trips to the USA, Germany, the Baltic States and Poland, and first visits to China and Bulgaria.

Lettings

Leanna Donkin’s lettings career spans more than 20 years, starting at Hamptons International where she joined as a graduate trainee. Leanna joined house. Partnership in 2018 to set up their lettings department, which has gone from strength to strength ever since. Matilde Barker heads up the management side of the rental properties, having had a background in property management previously and particularly enjoys building the longlasting relationships with both landlords and tenants.

ldonkin@housepartnership.co.uk