McConks’ stand up paddle boarding bitesize travel guides: Roadford Lake, Dartmoor, Devon.

Location:

Roadford Lake, Dartmoor, Devon.

Spot type:

Sheltered flat/fresh water reservoir in the heart of Dartmoor National Park.

Conditions:

Roadford Reservoir, as some refer to it, is where you’ll find flat, fresh water perfect for starting out on your paddle boarding journey. Adventure SUPers will find plenty of nooks and crannies to investigate or you could dabble with a number of other watery disciplines. If there’s a blow then the lake will get pretty choppy. But it can then be good for learning the art of downwinding if the direction’s right.

Hazards:

Other water users and cold water (at certain times of year) need to be considered. During summer the lake has watchful instructors with rescue craft to hand should they be needed.

Access:

Getting to the put in means parking up and walking to where the activities centre is located. You’ll then need to pay a small fee is launching your own kit or pay for hire/lessons.

Amenities:

The onsite café is held in high regard by many. A watersports centre can sort you out with all that necessary paddle gear and tuition. Launceston isn’t too far away if you need more in the way of amenities. Camping and other accommodation is available right next to Roadford and in the surrounding area.

Overview:

Roadford is a watersports institution. Whether paddle boarding, windsurfing, dinghy sailing or kayaking it’s a hub of watery activities right through the year. Offering respite to the more familiar coastal location you find in this neck of the woods Roadford is a confidence building spot that’ll allow progression and skills development. There aren’t too many hazards, such as tide and swell for instance.

If you’re into wildlife there’s an abundance of bird species and other animals to look out for. Being able to view these from the water is great. Those who fancy a spot of touring, but in the confines of a lake, will be well served. And should it blow then in certain directions paddlers can enjoy the thrill of downwinding.

Being super close to the coast if anyone likes the idea of trying some of the open sea beaches then it’s not too much of a jaunt to access.

Launching your own SUP gear is available for a small fee. You’ll also need some form of third party insurance.

Don’t forget to check out our other bitesize paddle board guides here.