Stand up paddleboarding is a great way to combine exercise, balance, and time on the water. These sessions are designed for all levels, whether you’re trying SUP for the first time or looking to improve your skills while exploring London’s waterways. With guidance from experienced instructors, you’ll learn technique, build confidence, and enjoy a sociable and active time on the river.
Key Details
- Duration: Around 2 hours
- Level: Beginners and improvers, 18+
- Equipment: Paddleboards and safety gear provided
- Location: Kew Bridge, River Thames
Key Skills
- Developing core balance and coordination
-
Improving paddle stroke technique
-
Building stamina and strength on the water
-
Understanding SUP safety basics
-
Gaining confidence paddling on tidal waterways
What to Expect
The session begins with a land-based briefing where your instructor will cover essential safety and technique before you get onto the water. Once everyone is set up with boards and equipment, you’ll move into practical coaching, with most of the learning taking place out on the river. The relaxed pace means there’s plenty of time to practice skills while enjoying the views from the Thames.
Guides support each paddler individually, offering tips to refine balance and paddle strokes while ensuring safety throughout. As the session continues, you’ll move beyond the basics and begin paddling further along the river, experiencing London’s waterways from a completely new angle. Whether you’re here to pick up a new hobby, enjoy some fitness on the water, or simply spend time outdoors, this is a rewarding way to get active.
By the end, you’ll have gained new skills and confidence to take your SUP further, and if you’d like a more tailored experience, private sessions are also available.
Location
Sessions are based at Kew Bridge, the original home of SUP in London. The base is located beneath the arches of the historic bridge, built in 1903, and offers an atmospheric setting to start your paddle. With changing facilities and showers available on site, it’s a convenient and comfortable base to begin and end your experience.
Kew Bridge provides immediate access to the Thames, giving paddlers a safe and scenic stretch of water. The location allows for a balance of urban surroundings and natural views, making it one of the best areas in London to learn and practice paddleboarding.
Prerequisites
These sessions are open to adults aged 18 and above, with no prior paddleboarding experience required. A basic level of fitness and comfort around water is recommended, but your instructor will provide full support throughout the activity to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Why Choose Us
The centre has been London’s largest SUP provider since 2011, introducing thousands of people to paddleboarding on the Thames and canals. With professional coaches, a strong safety focus, and high-quality equipment, every session is designed to be both fun and educational.
Beyond learning SUP, the sessions also highlight the importance of protecting the waterways. Environmental education is part of the experience, with participants encouraged to understand issues such as plastic pollution and get involved in keeping rivers healthy. Many paddlers go on to continue their SUP adventures independently, and some even return as instructors, helping grow the sport further.