Richmond Kayak Hire

Hire one of our super-safe sit-on top kayaks from Richmond Bridge, and paddle on one of the most idyllic stretches of the Thames. Single or double kayaks available. Hire sessions are 2 hours long, which includes kitting out and our safety briefing. You can expect around 100 minutes paddling time on the water. Minimum 2 people unless you have had a lesson with Paddle Richmond first. 10% discount Mon-Thur.

We provide boats, paddles, buoyancy aids and a brief introduction to the rules of the river, and then will launch you to enjoy your paddle on the river.

We require that anyone hiring a kayak has good experience of kayaking beforehand, can safely turn and stop the boat, and understands the risks involved, . You must also display awareness of how to self-rescue should you fall in to the water. If you're not sure, why not book a kayak lesson first:

Children must be accompanied on the water by a parent/legal guardian.

Paddlers agree that they will not go downstream of Twickenham Bridge, or upstream of Teddington Lock, and will follow the rules of the river as explained to them by Paddle Richmond staff on site. All paddlers must wear a buoyancy aid whilst hiring kayaks. You will be responsible for the safe return (in good condition) of all equipment rented to you, at the time stated on your booking, and understand that you will be charged for any damage or loss of equipment,

or for late return of the equipment.

Can I rent the kayak for longer?

Yes by special arrangement only. You can add extra time on the booking form, and we will then confirm if that is possible, based on tide times and other bookings that day.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, by prior arrangement only - please contact us first on hello@paddlerichmond.co.uk. Unfortunately we don't have dog lifejackets.

Any other options?

Yes, you can buy a sunglasses strap, dry bag or phone case to help keep your stuff safe on the water - or feel free to leave it behind in our safe storage area.

Can I cancel or reschedule after I've booked?

Please see our cancellation policy. You have the option to add day before Flexi Rescheduling as an add-on when you book.

https://www.paddlerichmond.co.uk/cancellation-policy

You, and all paddlers in your group, need to be confident paddlers, and need good prior kayaking experience. If that is not the case, please book a lesson with us first.

You do not need to be a proficient swimmer, but should be comfortable with falling into water while wearing a buoyancy aid.

Before taking part, please make Paddle Richmond staff aware of any significant medical condition/disability that may affect your ability to participate, or to understand instructions. If you have any doubts regarding fitness to participate, please contact Paddle Richmond to discuss your concerns in advance, or seek medical advice from a doctor.

You will need to shower / wash thoroughly after the session if you have fallen in or been splashed, and need to ensure that any open cuts are covered. Note that we do not have shower facilities at Richmond.

Please arrive at the start time wearing the clothes you intend to paddle in as we have very limited space to get changed. 

We have a safe storage space for your bags and valuables.

No specialist clothing is required, but no jeans or cotton please, as cotton gets very cold when wet. In warm weather, swimwear or ordinary quick drying gym gear will be fine (shorts/leggings/T-shirt/fleece). 

We usually paddle barefoot on these sessions, but you could wear water shoes, or old sandals, flip flops or trainers if you'd prefer to wear shoes.

If it’s sunny please bring a hat and sun cream, and a bottle of water.

You may also want to bring a small dry bag for spare waterproof/warm clothing, money, any medications you may need and your phone in a waterproof pouch. We have these for sale if you don't have one. If you are worried about losing sunglasses please use a sunglasses strap, or buy one from us for £5.

You will be using our kayak and paddle.

Buoyancy aids are provided and are compulsory on all our sessions.

Please make sure you arrive on time - if you are late you may miss your session as our team may be out on the river with other customers.

After you arrive you can store your belongings and we'll get you kitted out with a buoyancy aid and paddle. You must pay attention to our safety briefing and instructions on river navigation and the paddling area. This typically takes 15-20 minutes depending on group size, and is part of the overall session time.

You can then head out onto the river to enjoy your session!

*Note that hire sessions are 2-hours including kitting out and the safety briefing - not 2-hours on the water.

*You can expect around 90-105 minutes paddling time on the water