Dan
A brilliant course run by the excellent Sean. His knowledge and experience shone through all the time and he really made the course a valuable learning tool.
Develop the skills to handle an open canoe with confidence, whether on calm lakes or gentle grade 2 rivers. This course focuses on combining boat control, body positioning, and paddle technique to move efficiently, respond to changing conditions, and navigate safely in a variety of environments.
This course emphasises practical paddling skills alongside an understanding of when and how to apply techniques. You will learn to handle a 16ft canoe smoothly, combining boat control, body positioning, and paddle technique to move effectively in both lakes and rivers. Coaching is tailored to your level, ensuring that each session develops your ability safely and confidently.
Training includes instruction in forwards and backwards paddling, steering, manoeuvring in close quarters, moving sideways, using river features, and harnessing wind to aid your journey. Each participant receives two days of focused coaching, leaving with a personalised action plan and the confidence to apply techniques on open water or easy white water independently. The course can be attended as a training session, assessment, or both, depending on your goals.
Sessions take place across Cumbria, with open water venues such as Ullswater, Derwentwater, and Windermere, and river sections including the Eden, Lune, and Lower Derwent. Meeting points vary according to weather and water conditions, ensuring safe and suitable learning environments for all participants.
Cumbria’s diverse waterways allow you to practise in a range of conditions, from sheltered lakes to mild white water, helping to build skill, confidence, and adaptability. The combination of quiet waters and gentle rivers ensures safe practice while providing realistic challenges for improving paddling technique.
No previous canoeing experience is necessary, though a reasonable level of fitness and comfort in water is recommended. Participants should be prepared for outdoor activity and wear clothing suitable for lake and river conditions.
The course is designed to suit a wide range of abilities. Beginners and those refining existing skills will benefit from personalised coaching, ensuring that everyone can progress safely while enjoying practical, hands-on learning.
Established in 2005 by Level 5 Coach Sean McGrath, the centre offers independent paddlesport coaching, guiding, and British Canoeing Awarding Body courses. The focus is on delivering high-quality, practical coaching with expert guidance tailored to each participant.
Based in the English Lake District, the centre provides flexible courses for anyone interested in developing paddling skills, from casual learners to more advanced paddlers. With a supportive approach, experienced instructors, and access to varied lakes and rivers, participants gain confidence, knowledge, and techniques that can be applied safely in real-world conditions.
There are no age restrictions.
No previous experience is required. The course is suitable for beginners as well as those refining existing skills. Coaching starts with basic technique and gradually introduces more advanced skills to build confidence and competence.
Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable in water. The course allows everyone to progress at their own pace, with personalised guidance to ensure safe and effective learning.
The course provides all essential paddling equipment, including an open canoe, paddle, and buoyancy aid. Participants should wear clothing suitable for outdoor water activity and that can get wet.
Optional items may include a wetsuit, waterproof jacket, hat, sunscreen, and water bottle. These items help ensure comfort during different weather conditions and longer paddling sessions.
Courses are held across Cumbria’s lakes and rivers. Likely open water locations include Ullswater, Derwentwater, and Windermere, with river sections such as Eden, Lune, and Lower Derwent.
Venues are selected based on water levels and weather conditions to provide safe and suitable training environments. This variety allows participants to experience paddling in both calm and moving water, improving adaptability and skill application.
Safety is central to the programme. You will learn to interpret environmental conditions, identify safe exit points, and use appropriate paddling techniques for stability and control.
Coaching also includes rescue techniques and guidance on managing river features, currents, and wind. Participants gain confidence in making decisions and responding effectively to real-world paddling challenges.
Yes, the course can be taken as a purely training session, as an assessment, or a combination of both depending on your goals. All sessions are tailored to the participant’s level and objectives.
At the end of the two days, each participant leaves with a personalised action plan, outlining key strengths and areas for improvement. You will gain practical skills and confidence for safe paddling in both lakes and gentle rivers.
A brilliant course run by the excellent Sean. His knowledge and experience shone through all the time and he really made the course a valuable learning tool.
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 Wild River, a partner of adventuro.
