Learn to kayak in one of our super-safe sit-on-top kayaks. Suitable for individuals, couples, families and small groups of up to 8 paddlers. We have 6 single kayaks and one double. From £49 with our Mon-Thurs special discount - or 2 for 1 on Tuesdays!

Who is this for?

Our lessons are open to paddlers of all abilities, from complete beginners, to those who have paddled kayaks or canoes many times before. Children over 10 are welcome if they are accompanied on the water by a parent or legal guardian, but under 14s will need to be in a double kayak.

Is it safe on the river?

Yes - we run these sessions at "half-tide" when there is almost no river flow at Richmond, making it very safe on the water.

Where will I paddle?

You will be paddling on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Thames, either upstream towards Eel Pie Island and Teddington, or downstream towards Isleworth, Kew Gardens and Chiswick. If you like we can add in a 20 minute ice cream break, or stop at a cafe or pub on this trip.

What will I learn?

Your two-hour kayaking session will start with a safety briefing and some land-based training before you head out on the water for your lesson and guided tour of the river. We will introduce you to the kayaking equipment, teach you about safety and navigation on the river, as well as paddle techniques, including how to steer, stop and self-rescue. 

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.

We do take people with physical and mental disabilities out on the water, however please contact us before booking as you may need a private session to ensure that we able to provide the right level of support, and that you receive the coach's full attention.

Please arrive 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.

In colder weather (November - March), wearing a wetsuit is advisable. We have wetsuits available if requested in advance, or bring your own. Also, please bring extra layers, a towel and a change of clothes just in case you take a dip during the lesson.

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.

Your session will start with a safety briefing and some land-based training on the riverbank or our pontoon near Richmond Bridge. This typically takes 15-20 minutes depending on group size.

We will then head out onto the river, either upstream towards Eel Pie Island and Teddington or downstream towards Richmond Lock, Isleworth, Kew Gardens and Chiswick, depending on the tide.

*The distance actually covered will depend on wind and tide conditions on the day.