Spinnaker Sailing Club is located at Ivy Lake near Ringwood.
It is the premier inland destination for wingers in the county, especially when the coastal conditions are too wild or the tides don't align. Because it is surrounded by trees and land, it is remarkably safe, with no currents or "shore dump" to worry about. Spinnaker has a very dedicated winging and windsurfing scene. It is an RYA training centre, making it a brilliant place to take your first "flights" in a controlled environment. They offer a "Pay and Play" scheme for experienced riders who have their own kit and insurance, as well as a vibrant membership for locals.
SW, W, NE (New Forest training; ALL)
12-18 knots for beginner wing foilers to practice flight; 20-28 knots for advanced riders using 4m wings.
Flat water / small wind-chop
Overall
A safe, non-tidal environment perfect for mastering the basics.
Vibe & Crowds
Super friendly. A Focal point for the local community with a supportive vibe. Moderate. Busy on windy weekends, but the lake is huge.
Suitable For
Safe, non-tidal, and well-equipped. The "go-to" for New Forest winging.
Negatives & Hazards
Gusty Wind. Weed Levels. Limited Space.
Like all inland lakes, the wind can be "up and down" due to inland obstacles - you'll need to learn to pump the wing through the lulls. While mostly deep, always check with the club about the "weed" levels in late summer, which can sometimes interfere with long foil masts. It is a smaller area than the Solent; you'll be doing a lot of turns! However, it is remarkably safe, with no currents or "shore dump" to worry about.
Spinnaker Lake
Open in Google MapsSpinnaker Sailing Club at Ivy Lake near Ringwood. It is an RYA training centre with excellent facilities. They offer a "Pay and Play" scheme for experienced riders, as well as a vibrant membership for locals.
Constant depth lake. Mostly deep, but check weed levels in late summer.
Year round - especially good when coastal conditions are too wild or tides don't align
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at support@knotnow.co.uk
Wind and weather forecasts for Spinnaker Lake are provided to help you plan your sessions. Conditions at this coastal location can change quickly, so always check the actual conditions when you arrive and trust your judgment. These forecasts are for recreational planning—always prioritize safety and verify conditions yourself before heading out. Tidal predictions for Spinnaker Lake are based on the nearest primary station at BLAKENEY (302.19km away). Local conditions can vary from these predictions due to coastal topography and weather effects. Always verify tidal conditions on arrival—these predictions are for planning purposes only, not for navigational use or critical safety decisions.