Archery, axe throwing and more at UK Active Outdoors
UK Active Outdoors runs archery, axe throwing, air rifle shooting and sword combat at Avon Valley Farm in Keynsham, between Bristol and Bath. The company is run by two outdoor enthusiasts, and the team also offers canoe, kayak and paddleboard sessions on the River Avon on selected dates. Sessions suit families, friends and groups of all abilities, from a first go at target archery to stag and hen parties, and the archery is adapted for wheelchair users.
Keynsham, Somerset
Ideal for groups
Beginner sessions available
Gift vouchers available
Air rifles, Battle Archery and sword combat
Beyond the archery range, the team runs an Air Rifle Challenge with NSRA instructors, ending in a shooting gallery, and Battle Royale - Sword Combat (18+), where players in body armour, gloves and full-face masks battle with swords, shields and axes. Battle Archery blends archery and paintball without the pain, using foam-tipped arrows, and runs on request for groups of six or more. Experienced shooters can book Archery Range Hire or Air Rifle Range Hire.
Canoeing and kayaking on the River Avon
The team also paddles the River Avon from the site, with guided canoe and sit-on-top kayak trips, plus canoe, kayak and paddleboard hire for confident paddlers. Kingfishers, herons, dragonflies and otters are spotted regularly along this stretch. River sessions run on selected dates and hire needs previous paddling experience, so check the latest dates before you travel.
FAQs
Where is UK Active Outdoors?
UK Active Outdoors is at Avon Valley Farm, Pixash Lane, Bath Road, Keynsham, BS31 1TS, about 6 miles from Bristol city centre and about 5 miles from Bath. As you arrive, take the right-hand turn before the entrance to Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park. The what3words address is ///evenly.feeds.smiles.
Where can I go axe throwing near Bristol?
UK Active Outdoors runs axe throwing at its range in Keynsham, about 6 miles from Bristol city centre. Axe Throwing (16+) covers throwing angels and a tomahawk with qualified marshals, and there are knife throwing and ultimate throwing sessions too.
Where can I try archery near Bath?
UK Active Outdoors is about 5 miles from Bath on the road to Bristol. Beginner Target Archery teaches the basics with Archery GB instructors and finishes with target games, so no experience is needed.
What is there to do near Keynsham?
Just outside Keynsham, UK Active Outdoors offers archery, axe and knife throwing, air rifle shooting, sword combat and Battle Archery, plus canoe and kayak trips on the River Avon on selected dates. It's a handy day out from Keynsham, Saltford, Bristol and Bath.
Do I need any experience?
Not for most sessions. Archery, axe throwing and the Air Rifle Challenge start with the basics and safety, led by instructors or marshals. River hire is different: canoe and kayak hire need you to paddle to a safe standard, and paddleboard hire needs a previous course or similar experience.
What are the age limits?
Kid's Axe Throwing (8 years+) is for children aged 8 and over with an adult. Axe throwing and knife throwing are for ages 16 and over, with 16 and 17-year-olds accompanied by an adult. Battle Archery is for ages 12 and over, and the ultimate throwing session and sword combat are adults only. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult on the water.
Is archery accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. The team uses specialised archery tools to help wheelchair users and people with limited upper-body strength. Inclusive Target Archery (Private) offers one-to-one sessions on weekday mornings, Tuesday to Thursday, for people with diverse needs, and the team asks you to get in touch before booking.
What is Battle Archery?
Battle Archery is a blend of archery and paintball without the pain. Players use bows and foam-tipped safety arrows across several mission scenarios. It runs on request for groups of at least six, aged 12 and over, so send a request with your preferred date.
Is UK Active Outdoors good for stag and hen parties?
Yes. Battle Royale - Sword Combat (18+) is aimed at friends, stag and hen parties, with body armour, gloves and full-face masks provided for battles with swords, shields and axes. Groups of 2 to 14 can book.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in and closed-toe shoes, and dress for the weather. For sword combat, the team recommends extra layers, as there are gaps in the body armour. For river trips, bring a change of clothes and a towel.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. All river hire must be booked in advance, and Battle Archery runs on request, so plan ahead. Booking online with UK Active Outdoors is the quickest way to secure your place.
Does UK Active Outdoors sell gift vouchers?
Yes. You can buy a UK Active Outdoors gift voucher online and give someone a day of archery, axe throwing or another activity.