Torre Abbey Sands, in Torquay, in the English Riviera, is a location for the SUP World Cup and SUPER Festival, in June. But how difficult is it to travel from Nottingham to the English Riviera car-free with a SUP?

Going paddling without a car, and using public transport, on a local level can be done fairly easily.

But travelling 230 miles (370km) from the East Midlands to South Devon?

Neil started his journey in Nottingham | Paddle UK

placeholder image — Neil started his journey in Nottingham | Paddle UK

I decided to take Decathlon’s inflatable SUP which is lightweight (8kg), and folds up neatly in the back pack.

It’s ideal for public transport. My journey would entail a bus and three trains, and some walking.

I strapped the paddle to the side of the bag, and packed a small suitcase for my kit and clothes that I could wheel behind me.

It was a long journey using three trains | Paddle UK

Benefits of Going Car-Free:

Directly contributes to lowering carbon emissions.

Reduces traffic stress and increases physical activity.

Saves money on fuel, insurance, and maintenance.

The goal was to get out on the sea | Paddle UK

Allows for a slower, more intentional pace, taking in views of the countryside and sea

I got up at 5am so I could be in Torquay for lunchtime, ready for an afternoon paddle.

I caught a bus into Nottingham, and after getting off, I walked for 13 minutes to Nottingham Station.

This was my first experience of carrying the SUP and it felt comfortable. I wouldn’t want to run a marathon with it, but short distances are fine.

My main concern was being on a crowded train and having no space for the SUP and my luggage.

I caught the train to Derby at 6:45 and it was quiet, thankfully.

However, the number of commuters grew as I waited for the 7:20 to Exeter St Davids.

The route takes in Birmingham, Cheltenham and Bristol, so the train was packed.

I managed to squeeze the SUP and my case into the small luggage compartment and sat close by.

Thankfully I didn’t have to sit with the kit near the toilets.

It was about 3 hours to Exeter St Davids where I alighted, and then I boarded the Great Western train to Torquay at 11am.

This was the bit of the journey I was looking forward to the most.

The route runs alongside the River Exe, and gives you fantastic views of the tidal streams and mudflats.

You get to see the Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve before the track veers right and runs alongside Dawlish Warren Seaside.

I wouldn’t have got these views of the sea in a car journey.

I arrived at Torquay station at 11:35am following a comfortable and stress-free journey, ready for a paddle.

Downsides of Going Car-Free:

Trains and buses are not always on time or quiet with passengers

You are potentially a walking hazard with all the kit especially if it's congested

The cost. Car fuel for the journey cost about £100, but the train ticket itself (one way) was £130.

You’re limited to where you want to go without a car

The SUP World Cup and SUPER Festival will be a landmark moment for the Bay and a chance for the whole community to feel part of something truly special.

Further information and registration details are available at: www.superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk