When you go paddle boarding in Warwickshire you start right in the heart of Leamington Spa at the Boating Lake, home to the Leam Boat Centre. It's a little oasis in the middle of the rather lovely Mill Gardens, right next to the meandering River Leam and opposite Jephson Gardens.

There's actually been a boating lake here since Victorian times. After falling into disrepair, the attractive Victorian red brick boat house was restored to its former glory in 2001. Local teacher and youth worker Matt Bishop saw the potential in the place and now the Leam Boat Centre is thriving as a water sports centre that's open to all.

We're offering you the chance to have a go at the hugely popular sport of SUP with either a taster or a discovery experience. The tasters teach you the basics, whilst the discovery will see you heading off on a little paddle tour to Newbold Comyn Nature Reserve (bringing your own picnic to enjoy waterside) and giving you the chance to try different types of paddle board.

Stand up paddle boarding is one of the most inclusive paddle sports there is. The boards themselves are large and surprisingly stable. Of course, there's a 'knack' to be able to actually get on the board and then standing up. That's why Leam Boat Centre's British Canoeing qualified instructors are on hand to give you the coaching and the confidence you need to get out there on the lake and nail that standing on the board thing.

Once you've got it cracked, you'll head off on a quiet stretch of the River Leam for a relaxing paddle. Those on the discovery session will paddle past the lovely gardens and into the nature reserve on your stand up paddle board - and all this just minutes away from Leamington Spa town centre.

Combining top-notch coaching with a wonderful centre just 500m from Leamington Spa station, we think this the most appealing venue for paddle boarding in Warwickshire! And for paddlers on the full day experience, you can even go for your British Canoeing Paddle Discover Award, to show you're competent at SUPing!

• Selected weekdays and weekends from May to October
• Morning and evening taster sessions are usually available
• Full day discovery sessions run 11am to 4pm

• Minimum age 14
• You must be reasonably fit and confident in the water
• You will be asked to complete a medical declaration form before taking part, for those under 18 this will need to be signed by a parent or guardian

• Spectators are welcome
• The boat centre is located within a fully restored Victorian boat house providing toilets, showers and changing rooms
• Drinks and snacks are available to purchase on site