With the River Wensum running straight through its heart, enjoying nature couldn't be easier in Norwich this summer.

We've put together a list of some of the best places to hire a paddleboard, canoe or boat in the city.

1. Bishy Barney Boats

Where: Thorpe River Green, Yarmouth Road, Norwich, NR7 0HE

Norwich Evening News: Bishy Barney boats are an excellent way to spend a Saturday afternoonBishy Barney boats are an excellent way to spend a Saturday afternoon (Image: Submitted)

Bishy Barney's sleek, retro-styled boats, will have you puttering along in no time.

With room for up to four people, the smaller crafts are perfect for families and the Le Bishy Grande electric boats can take up to eight passengers.

The boat hire is located directly next to the River Green pub which is a perfect spot for rounding off the trip.

2. Norwich Paddleboard Hire 

Where: Gibraltar Gardens, 288 Heigham St, Norwich, NR2 4LZ 

Norwich Evening News: Norwich Paddleboard Hire is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing jaunt across the waterNorwich Paddleboard Hire is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing jaunt across the water (Image: Newsquest)

Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun and active way to get out into nature and it is becoming more and more popular in and around Norwich.

READ MORE: Norwich paddleboard firm to remain at city pub as new landlord takes over

Now the fastest-growing sport in the UK, Norwich Paddleboard Hire offers top-of-the-range hire equipment including single, tandem and giant six-person paddleboards, as well as sunset yoga sessions.

3. The Canoeman 

Where: The Canoe Man, Riverside Road, Norwich, NR1 1EE

Norwich Evening News: Mark Wilkinson (the Canoeman) with his dog Mr DarcyMark Wilkinson (the Canoeman) with his dog Mr Darcy (Image: Newsquest)

Situated opposite the Nelson Pub and Restaurant at the Foundry Bridge, the Canoeman is a great city centre spot to start your water adventure. 

Head out on one of its Canadian-style canoes for a jolly jaunt into the city or out to the idyllic Whitlingham nature reserve. 

4. Pub and Paddle

Where: Quay, next to the Ribs of Beef, 24 Elm Hill, Wensum Street, Norwich, NR3 1HY

Norwich Evening News: Pub and Paddle has won an award for being a top-tier visitor attractionPub and Paddle has won an award for being a top-tier visitor attraction (Image: Newsquest)

Whether you’re an expert canoeist or have never paddled before, Pub and Paddle has trips suitable for everyone. 

Beginning in the centre of Norwich at its Elm Hill Quay pontoon, next to The Ribs of Beef pub, there are three routes on offer in and around the city. 

Pub and Paddle has been also recognised as one of the best attractions in the country after it was awarded a Travellers' Choice Award from Tripadvisor.

5. Norfolk Paddleboards

Where: The Red Lion Bishopgate, Norwich, NR1 4AA and The Rivergarden, 36 Yarmouth Road, Norwich, NR7 0EQ

Norwich Evening News: Norfolk Paddleboards is one of the best ways to see the WensumNorfolk Paddleboards is one of the best ways to see the Wensum (Image: Newsquest)

If you've never stepped foot on a paddleboard then Norfolk Paddleboards is the place to start.

Hire for two hours or half a day beginning at £15 per board, and take advantage of the beginner group or even one-to-one sessions.

Be sure to book well ahead to earn your spot on a course.