Sheila
Thanks Tyler was really helpful. No toilet facilities so marked down. Overall: 4 stars
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Taking up Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is an activity that's open to everyone - no matter your age or fitness level. Imagine gently gliding along the water, strengthening your body, and soothing your mind all at once. SUP is a gateway to exploring beautiful landscapes and making new friends in the paddling community.
London, with its intricate network of historic canals and the stunning River Thames, offers a unique perspective on the city for SUP enthusiasts. Paddleboarding in London combines the thrill of adventure, exercise, and the tranquility of being close to nature, right in the heart of an urban metropolis. As you glide on the waterways, you'll experience iconic landmarks from a new vantage point, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the diverse wildlife. London's waterways are quieter and less crowded than its bustling streets, making it an oasis for paddleboarding. Plus, with London's thriving SUP community and dedicated SUP providers, you'll find plenty of support and opportunities to develop your skills.
You will receive confirmation via email and be able to talk to the centre if you have any further questions/special requests.
No preparation is needed but dress appropriately for the weather, bring a change of clothes and footwear to wear on water.
We advise checking the weather forecast before your session and dressing appropriately based on the weather conditions on the day - taking wind and rain factors into account.
During the warm weather, the essentials for your SUP session include quick-drying sportswear or gymwear. This could be short or long-sleeved tops, leggings, shorts, or quick-drying trousers. Avoid heavy cotton or denim, as these can hold moisture and make you feel cold quickly when wet.
For footwear, neoprene water shoes are optimal. If you don't have these, don't fret. Flat-soled trainers, Converse, or hiking sandals with heel straps work fine for your first few sessions, as long as you don't mind them getting wet or muddy. Stay clear of flip-flops - they easily fall off, and you risk tripping and injuring yourself. The river banks can be sharp and muddy, so it's best to avoid going barefoot. We sell neoprene socks at competitive prices (£15-£20) which can be worn with your trainers. We also offer lightweight neoprene shoes and some more technical boots, although not all sizes are available.
A light windproof or waterproof jacket is handy if you think you might get chilly, along with a spare top or jumper to put on after exercise to keep cosy.
As the weather gets colder, a light windproof or waterproof jacket and thermal top are highly recommended. In very cold weather, we suggest wearing light thermals, wetsuits, and a woolly hat, as we lose a lot of heat from our heads. We do provide wetsuits for our sessions, which can be worn over a base layer and pair of leggings.
Footwear becomes crucial in cold weather, as your feet can get chilly! We recommend neoprene shoes, boots, and in extreme cold, neoprene socks. As before, we sell neoprene socks and shoes at affordable prices, but stocks are limited.
During the winter months, we also provide neoprene mitts if needed. Always remember to bring spare clothes and a warm jumper or cosy top to wear after your session - staying warm after exercise is essential during winter.
Kew is easy to access by public transport, car or along the Thames path on foot or bike. We encourage cycling to our meeting point as it is the best option for the environment and easy to access.
Here are your options to choose from:
Thanks Tyler was really helpful. No toilet facilities so marked down. Overall: 4 stars
Incredible experience, can't wait to do more
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 Active 360, a partner of adventuro.
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
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