This guided paddle follows the quiet stretch of the Western Cleddau between Haverfordwest and Black Tar, offering a peaceful route through rarely visited parts of the estuary. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the session is designed to give you the chance to enjoy the scenery, spot wildlife, and learn more about this special part of Pembrokeshire.
You’ll be welcomed by the team in orange tops at the Quay Street Car Park in Haverfordwest 15 minutes before the start time. Once you've been fitted with a buoyancy aid, paddle and dry bag, your guide will give a short safety briefing before leading you to the water’s edge where the canoes will already be prepared. From here, you'll launch onto the Western Cleddau and begin a relaxed paddle downstream.
The route from Haverfordwest to Black Tar winds through quiet estuary scenery, dotted with riverside structures and surrounded by nature. Your guide will paddle among the group, offering help with paddling technique, pointing out interesting features and helping anyone who feels a little nervous on the water. Wildlife sightings are common, and there will be opportunities to pause and take in the surroundings along the way. After around three hours on the water, we’ll reach the endpoint where transport will be waiting to take everyone back to the starting point.
The tour takes place along the upper reaches of the Daugleddau estuary, a quiet and less-explored part of Pembrokeshire’s National Park. This stretch of water is known for its birdlife, occasional seals, and peaceful atmosphere, offering an experience quite different from the more coastal parts of the county.
Starting from Haverfordwest, the route follows the Western Cleddau downstream. With a mix of natural views and historic features along the way, it's a great option for those wanting to explore a different side of the area at a slower pace.
This paddle is suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. No prior canoeing experience is required, and the route has been chosen to make the most of the tide, making paddling more manageable for beginners. The guide will offer assistance and keep things moving at a relaxed pace.
All participants must complete a medical declaration before the trip. If you’re under 18, your parent or guardian must sign the form for you. There are no toilet facilities at the meeting point, so it’s best to arrive ready to paddle.
The centre focuses on low-impact, small-group sessions that give people a chance to experience the more peaceful corners of Pembrokeshire by canoe. Each trip is timed to work with the tide, making the paddling feel natural and unforced. Guides are local, experienced, and always happy to offer advice or share a story about the area.
Sessions are run with care and flexibility, meaning the team can tailor the pace and support to the needs of each group. This particular trip is one of the least frequently offered, making it a great choice if you're after something a little more special and off the beaten track.
It’s important to come prepared for changing weather and getting wet. You should bring a complete change of clothes including shoes you don’t mind getting wet, a waterproof jacket, towel, suncream, and a bottle of water. Personal medication should also be taken along if needed.
Since there are no toilet facilities at the meeting point, please make sure to use nearby facilities before arriving. Dressing in layers is advisable as conditions can change quickly on the water, especially in Pembrokeshire.
No prior experience is necessary. The route is chosen to be manageable for beginners and the guides will provide safety briefings and ongoing support throughout the paddle. They will offer tips on technique and help anyone who feels unsure.
The pace is relaxed, and the guides will adjust the trip to suit the group’s abilities. Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’ve paddled before, you’ll be supported from start to finish.
The trip requires a reasonable level of fitness as you’ll be paddling for about three hours. The tidal flow usually assists the journey, which helps reduce the effort needed. You’ll be on open water but the route is sheltered and calm.
If you have any health concerns or limited fitness, it’s best to discuss these before booking. The guides can offer advice and support to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Pembrokeshire’s weather can be changeable, and safety is the top priority. If conditions are unsuitable for paddling, the trip may be postponed or cancelled. You will be informed in advance if any changes are necessary.
In the event of cancellation, alternative dates can be arranged where possible. Always check the weather forecast beforehand and dress appropriately for outdoor activity.
The meeting point is at Quay Street Car Park in Haverfordwest (postcode SA61 1BE). Parking is limited to two hours, so it’s recommended to use alternative parking nearby or park in other town car parks and walk to the meeting place.
Street parking is usually available a short distance away. Make sure to allow enough time to find parking and arrive 15 minutes before the start time to get fitted and briefed.
You will be supplied with a canoe (sized for 2 or 3 people), buoyancy aid (which must be worn at all times), paddles, and a dry bag to keep your change of clothes safe and dry. All equipment is regularly checked and maintained for safety.
Guides carry additional safety gear and first aid kits. The team will also help you with fitting and adjusting all equipment to ensure comfort and security throughout the trip.
About the centre
Pembrokeshire
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