Gladys
Lovely experience! Tristan was very nice and explain everything we should expect and needed to do 😊 we both had a lot of fun!
Kayaking or canoeing on the River Avon offers a great way to enjoy time outdoors with family or friends. Whether you prefer paddling solo in a sit-on-top kayak or working as a team in a stable canoe, this self-guided experience gives you two hours to take in the peaceful scenery and spot local wildlife. These sessions are ideal for anyone looking to get out on the water in a low-pressure, beginner-friendly setting.
On arrival at Avon Valley Farm, you'll receive a short safety briefing and a check of your equipment before heading out. Kayakers will use sit-on-top boats suitable for solo use, while canoes are ideal for two or more paddlers. These sessions are unguided but include all necessary safety gear and support at the launch point.
For kayakers, a previous experience is essential. You'll need to be confident handling a kayak on your own and capable of paddling efficiently for the full duration. The kayak route offers a chance to quietly explore the river, pass wooded banks, and spot birds and other wildlife from the water.
Canoe hire is more relaxed and suited to groups or pairs. It's a great choice for those wanting to paddle at their own pace. You’ll glide through gentle stretches of river and have the freedom to stop and float as you wish. The full route is out-and-back, starting and finishing at the same point, so you're never far from help if needed.
The meeting point for both kayak and canoe hire is just outside Avon Valley Farm in Keynsham, ideally situated between Bristol and Bath. This stretch of the River Avon offers a peaceful route surrounded by countryside, woodlands, and farmland, with regular sightings of herons, swans, kingfishers and even otters. It’s easily accessible by car, with free on-site parking and clear signage from the main road.
After crossing the small humpback bridge, take the first right turn before you reach Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park. Continue down this private road, pass over several speed bumps, and take the next left into the business unit area. Signage will direct you to the designated parking area. Once parked, head to the reception point to check in and collect your equipment. Full arrival instructions, including the postcode and What3Words location, will be sent upon booking.
Minimum age for both activities is 12, and under-18s must be on the water with an adult. Sit-on-top kayak hire requires prior paddling experience. You must be able to swim at least 25 metres and feel comfortable managing a kayak independently.
For safety reasons, if you do not meet this requirement on the day, you will not be allowed to take part. Canoe hire does not require previous experience, making it ideal for beginners and families.
The team provides straightforward and inclusive outdoor activities that prioritise safety, fun and environmental care. Their base at Avon Valley Farm uses recycled and reclaimed materials throughout, and efforts have been made to enhance natural habitats on-site. With a relaxed approach and a knowledgeable local team, guests can expect a friendly welcome and reliable support.
This activity supports a low-impact way to enjoy the outdoors while offering just the right balance of independence and safety support. Optional wetsuit hire is available if you’d prefer a more splash-ready outfit, and vouchers can be purchased for gifts or group bookings.
The session lasts for 2 hours, providing ample time to explore and enjoy the River Avon.
Yes, prior paddling experience is required for both sit-on-top kayaks and open canoes. You must be able to paddle to a safe and competent standard to be allowed on the water. This includes knowing how to control and manoeuvre your craft without assistance, understanding basic paddling strokes, and having confidence in your ability to self-manage on a moving waterway.
If you arrive without any prior experience, our team will unfortunately have to refuse your booking for safety reasons. If you're unsure whether you meet the necessary skill level, we strongly encourage you to get in touch with us before booking.
Each session includes two full hours on the River Avon, starting and ending at Avon Valley Farm (BS31 1TS). On arrival, our staff will meet you for a safety briefing, check your equipment, and provide any optional kit hire such as wetsuits (£5 per person).
You’ll then set off to explore a peaceful stretch of river, surrounded by countryside and local wildlife. Paddlers often spot kingfishers, herons, dragonflies and, with a bit of luck, even otters. There’s no fixed route—you're free to paddle upstream or downstream at your own pace, as long as you stay within the safe zones explained at the start. All sessions must be pre-booked.
Plenty of free parking is available on-site, including disabled parking areas. An overflow car park is present for larger groups.
We will contact you in case of adverse weather or inadequate conditions. Once a session is booked, please presume it will go ahead unless we contact you.
Adverse weather means, thunderstorms, gail force winds, freezing cold conditions, or a downpour of heavy rain. All other conditions, including light rain, we will proceed as normal.
About the centre
UK Active Outdoors, Avon Valley Farm, Pixash Lane, Bath Road, Keynsham, BS311TS
Lovely experience! Tristan was very nice and explain everything we should expect and needed to do 😊 we both had a lot of fun!
We had a fantastic time! Sam was a great guide and very knowledgeable about the river and wildlife. We saw a lot, and had a great experience paddling along the river.
Team had a great time, thks
Was such a great experience and so peaceful kayaking Tristan was lovely and very interesting 10/10 experience
We had such a great time kayaking with Tristan! He was very welcoming and informative, sharing lots of interesting details about the wildlife on the lake and the history of the river, which made the experience even more special. The activity itself was the perfect beginner level, easy to pick…
Relaxing kayak experience on River Avon. Leader Harry checked regularly that we were all ok.
I have never done this before and wanted to try despite me being terrified of the whole situation our guide was Simon I had rough start and took time to get used paddling and keeping myself steady Simon was so patiently with me and I must say I did enjoy…
We had a great trip along the beautiful river with our guide Sam.
Five stars 🌟 🤩 Simon was great. He took good care of us and gave us loads of information on the river and the wildlife.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by UK Active Outdoors LTD, a partner of adventuro.
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