Glide through peaceful salt‑marsh creeks and spot kingfishers, seals and more.
Kingsbridge
Paddle the Creek
About
Situated at the very top of the picturesque Kingsbridge Estuary, the new Location offers a peaceful yet inspiring setting for paddlers of all levels. Nestled in the heart of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this sheltered tidal estuary is a haven for paddlers seeking calm waters, wildlife encounters, and scenic views.
From the launch point near the town centre, paddlers can glide southward along the main estuary channel, exploring meandering banks lined with saltmarsh, reedbeds, and oak-lined hillsides. The area is rich in flora and fauna—expect to see herons, egrets, kingfishers, and cormorants. With luck, you may even spot a grey seal just above the water’s surface. The unique mix of salt and fresh water in the estuary supports a vibrant ecosystem, making every paddle an immersive nature experience.
Kingsbridge is also home to the popular SUP the Creek race, a highlight of the UK paddleboarding calendar. Organised by the established local paddle business Waterborn, this two-day event forms part of the national GB SUP series and attracts paddlers from across the country.
Launching is straightforward and beginner-friendly. The main slipway is located adjacent to the quay, offering a gradual entry into the sheltered tidal waters of the Kingsbridge Estuary. Conditions here are typically calm, making it an ideal location for both first-time paddlers and those seeking to build confidence. The estuary is tidal, so paddlers are advised to check tide times before setting off. The launch point is only a short walk from town-centre amenities and public toilets, ensuring everything you need is within easy reach.
Finished events
There are no finished events found.
On site facilities
Parking
Parking in Kingsbridge is convenient and accessible for paddlers visiting the estuary. The most suitable option is the Kingsbridge Quay Car Park, located right on the waterfront (postcode TQ7 1HN). This long-stay car park offers easy access to the slipway and is just a short walk from the AquaPaddle launch point. Additional parking can be found nearby at Fore Street and Cattle Market car parks, all within a few minutes’ walk of the estuary.
Refreshments
After your paddle, Kingsbridge has a wide range of excellent options for food and drink. Enjoy a locally roasted coffee at one of the town’s independent cafés, or treat yourself to a traditional Devon cream tea. There are also plenty of spots offering fresh pastries, sandwiches and hearty meals—perfect for refuelling after time on the water. For something more substantial, local pubs and restaurants serve everything from classic pub fare to seafood dishes featuring fresh local catch. Discover more places to eat and drink on the Hello Kingsbridge website.
Facilities
There are changing facilities at the Waterborn Centre and toilets at the top of the town creek, at the entrance to the Quay Car Park.