Half Day Canoe Hire
Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat East
Key Facts:
Duration: Up to 3.5 hours
Length: 9 miles
Canoe 9 miles through the beautiful countryside on this half day canoe hire, enjoying the serene beauty that is this magical destination. This is the perfect trip to explore the Wye Valley. Simply come to our private riverside centre in Symonds Yat EAST, we transport you up to Kerne Bridge and you canoe back to Symonds Yat EAST. Perfect for family time! Want to extend your half day canoe hire and enjoy the river for longer to explore, chill and enjoy a picnic? Upgrade to a late return time for just £10 per boat.
Got any questions? Check out our FAQs >
Additional Information
Prices
| Item for Hire | Price |
|---|---|
2 Person Canoe
|
£60 per boat |
3 Person Canoe
|
£70 per boat |
3 Adult Canoe
|
£80 per boat |
Family Canoe
|
£80 per boat |
Single sit on top Kayak
|
£45 per boat |
Single Kayak
|
£55 per boat |
Double Kayak
|
£60 per boat |
Why not extend your trip?
|
£10 per boat |
Spars
|
£2 per pair |
Launch Charge
|
£2.50 per boat |
Times
| Arrival Time | Finish Time |
|---|---|
| 09:00 | 13:30 |
| 09:45 | 14:15 |
| 10:30 | 15:00 |
| 11:15 | 15:45 |
| 12:00 | 16:30 |
| 12:45 | 17:15 |
Bookings
How to Book
Cancellation Policy
|
Full Description
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the Wye Valley lies the tranquil River Wye, offering an idyllic setting for a half day canoeing trip.
The Start
Starting with us at our private riverside canoe centre, we provide each person with a Paddle, Buoyancy aid and an optional water resistant barrel to take some clothing along with a short safety briefing before we board one of our air conditioned minibuses to take you on the short 3 mile journey to the start location. From there, adventurers embark on a journey to reconnect with nature and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the river.
The Adventure
With the gentle sound of paddles dipping into the crystal-clear waters, the journey begins. Each stroke propels the canoe forward, carrying its occupants along the meandering path of the river. The lush banks of the Wye, adorned with a tapestry of vibrant foliage and wildflowers, provide a breathtaking backdrop for this tranquil excursion.
As the canoe glides downstream, the stresses of everyday life melt away, replaced by a sense of tranquillity and serenity. The rhythmic motion of paddling becomes almost meditative, allowing travellers to fully embrace the present moment and appreciate the natural wonders that surround them.
Things to see
Along the way, wildlife enthusiasts are treated to sightings of kingfishers darting gracefully across the water, while elusive otters playfully frolic in the shallows. The riverbanks teem with life as herons stand sentinel-like along the shoreline, and agile deer cautiously graze in the nearby meadows.
Lydbrook & Symonds Yat Rock
As the journey continues, the river reveals its hidden treasures, including ancient railway bridge nestled amidst the verdant foliage at lower Lydbrook. Each bend in the river unveils a new vista, Such as Symonds Yat Rock View Point, inviting explorers to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of their surroundings.
As the Symonds Yat Valley begins its descent towards the horizon, this signals the end of the half day canoe hire journey, paddlers reflect on their experience with a sense of gratitude and contentment. The River Wye has offered them not just a scenic retreat, but a profound connection to the natural world and a reminder of the importance of slowing down and savouring life’s simple pleasures.
With memories of tranquil waters, verdant landscapes, and abundant wildlife, adventurers bid farewell to the River Wye whilst enjoying a well earnt drink in The Royal Lodge Beer Garden, knowing that they carry a piece of its serene beauty with them wherever they may go. Until next time, they cherish the memories of their half day canoeing trip, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to return and embark on another journey into the heart of nature’s embrace.
The Ultimate Upgrade
If you upgrade to a late return, halfway through the journey, paddlers find the perfect spot to pause and indulge in a leisurely picnic on the riverbank. Amidst the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, with each bite, you are reminded of the simple joys that come from connecting with nature.
FAQs
How long does the trip take?
The trip is 9 miles and should take 3 hours to paddle at a gentle constant pace. You can paddle at your own pace as long as you are back by the return time.
What if we have never canoed before?
This trip is great for beginners and experienced alike. We give every participant a safety brief which goes through:
- How to paddle
- Things to look out for (minor hazards on the way down)
- What to do if you accidentally capsize (should not happen if you listen to the points above)
- Emergency contact details
What is the launch charge?
The local Parish Council charge £2.50 per boat to launch at Kerne Bridge.
This is payable in cash upon check-in, or by card which goes directly to the launch site operators.
Where do we park?
There is a large private Pay & Display car park right next to our centre.
On sunny days please leave plenty of time to find a space and purchase a ticket before your arrival time.
Charges are £5 for up to 4 hours and £7 for all day
Can our dogs come canoeing with us?
Yes, as long as they are well behaved, not tied into the boat and are no bigger than an average Labrador.
Please be sensible if bringing your dog with you, especially in hot weather!
Will we be unaccompanied?
Yes, 90% of all canoe hire is unaccompanied unless we deem it necessary to guide you down the river because of the conditions on the day.
If we choose to accompany you, it is not intended to be invasive nor does it spoil your time on the water, it is there to help keep you safe.
If the water levels are higher than normal and we are still safe to operate, one of our highly qualified instructors will guide you down the river with a small number of other people. We still get you out to enjoy the trip but in a safe controlled manner.
What if the weather is bad on the day?
If the lovely British weather decides to rain on the day of your activity, we will still go ahead.
We ask you to bring the appropriate clothing and the right attitude to have some fun.
If we deem the weather to be unsafe, we will postpone or cancel your booking. This is at our discretion.
Can we bring alcohol with us?
Sorry, as a duty of care to all river users, the environment and the locals who live in the area, we operate a zero tolerance on any alcohol or glass bottles.
We reserve the right to check before allowing you out on the water. If you want to have a drink please do the responsible thing, enjoy your canoe trip and then visit one of the fine establishments right next to the canoe centre upon your return.
Will we have time to stop on the way?
You can enjoy a floating picnic or stop at public landing point to have your picnic, just be mindful of the time you have left to return.
Please remember you are in the beautiful countryside, and the river banks may be privately owned.
Leave nothing behind and take nothing but memories
What is the youngest age someone can go canoeing?
Our minimum age is 4 years old. All children under 12 must be accompanied by a minimum of 2 fit and healthy adults.
Do we need to pre-book?
We would highly recommend pre-booking to avoid disappointment. However, we may have some availability on the day, so please call us on 01600 891 376 and we will do our best to fit you in.
Is there a maximum weight?
The maximum weight of a person must not exceed 17 stone or 110kg, with a maximum weight of 34 stone or 230kg in a canoe including clothing and any gear.
What should we wear?
Please wear clothes appropriate to the conditions. Whilst the chances of you getting wet are slim, it may happen. Bring a change of clothes just in case. Footwear must be worn at all times. No flip flops, ‘Crocs’ or Wellington boots.
How many people can fit into a Family Canoe?
A Family Canoe can accommodate 2 small adults and 2 children under hip height, along with a small bag of necessary kit.
Please note that if you book a Family Canoe and you exceed the height/weight limit, you will be required to hire an additional canoe if one is available on the day.
You CANNOT get 4 adults in a family canoe.
Do we pay a deposit to book?
Upon booking we take payment in full, this reserves your spaces. You will then receive a confirmation email which will inform you of the details of the activity you have booked, including what to wear and how to find us.
Can pregnant people participate?
Sorry, we cannot allow anyone who is pregnant to participate in any of our activities.