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See a different side of London from the water with a choice of paddle craft available directly from Ladbroke Grove. Whether you’re heading out solo or planning a shared experience, you can explore the Grand Union Canal at your own pace with no prior experience needed.
Choose from a wide selection of paddle craft to suit your group:
All equipment is included, and buoyancy aids must be worn at all times. Craft are easy to use, with sit-on-top kayaks and canoes designed for stability and simple self-rescue.
Located in the heart of London, our Ladbroke Grove venue offers direct access to the Grand Union Canal and Little Venice. It's an ideal setting for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), canoeing, and kayaking, with options suitable for beginners through to experienced paddlers.
The centre includes a private basin where you can build confidence and develop key skills before heading out onto the canal. From there, sessions typically head towards Little Venice or Old Oak, depending on the group and conditions.
We can accommodate groups of 60+ with a variety of craft types, making it well-suited for schools, corporate groups, and large bookings. On-site facilities include showers, changing rooms, a kitchen, and meeting rooms—ideal for full-day bookings or team events.
You don’t need any previous experience to hire a paddle craft, but you must be confident in the water and able to follow basic safety instructions. Under-18s must be accompanied on the water by an adult. All participants must wear the provided buoyancy aids while paddling.
The centre has been running since 2011 and has introduced tens of thousands of people to paddle sports. With a strong emphasis on environmental awareness and local conservation, they aim to connect people to London’s waterways in a way that’s safe, accessible, and respectful. They also work actively to educate visitors about plastic pollution and promote long-term care of the environment.
Please Note: Independent access through the Maida Hill Tunnel on Regent’s Canal is not permitted.
You will receive confirmation of your booking via email, and be able to speak directly to the centre via an online chat in case you have any further questions/requests.
You should wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting splashed—quick-drying sportswear is ideal. Footwear that can get wet, such as water shoes or old trainers, is recommended. It’s also a good idea to bring a bottle of water, sun cream, and a change of clothes just in case.
Dry bags can be provided on request for storing small valuables, though we recommend leaving unnecessary items behind.
You can take a bag with you, provided it isn't too large and it is splash-proof. Dry bags are ideal!
We do not have lockers on site but personal belongings in a bag/rucksack can be left in the equipment cages on-site. Make sure you do not leave loose items - it's best to put them in one or two bags. Shoes can be left on site too.
We have never had anything go missing but avoid bringing valuables (or take them in a drybag) as the cages are shared by staff and all customers.
We highly recommend cycling to the site. There are cycle stands nearby. Bring a lock with you. Folded Brompton bikes can be left in the equipment cages.
Ladbroke Grove is easy to access by public transport, on foot or bike. We are right by Sainsburys, just a couple metres from the Grand Union Canal. Check out transport options and maps below.
Train
The nearest stations are Ladbroke Grove, Kensal Rise and Kensal Green, all just a 15 minute walk from Canalside. Westbourne Park is a 20 minute walk but along the canal so arguably the nicest walking route.
Bus
There a a number of buses going to and from Canalside.
Cycling
The best way to reach Canalside is by bike and there is secure parking on site.
Parking
Street parking may be available locally. The closest car park is Sainsbury’s which is next door, parking is free for up to 3 hours (as long as you make a purchase in store).
No previous experience is required. All the craft available for hire—including sit-on-top kayaks, Canadian canoes, and stand-up paddleboards—are designed to be stable, user-friendly, and suitable for beginners.
You’ll be given a short safety briefing before heading out, and our team is on hand to help with fitting your buoyancy aid and offering tips on paddling technique if needed.
From Paddington Basin, you can paddle west towards the leafy and scenic stretch of Little Venice or head east through quieter parts of the Grand Union Canal. The area is sheltered, with limited boat traffic, making it well-suited to relaxed, self-guided paddling.
You’ll be given guidance on where it’s safe to go, and note that travelling through Maida Hill Tunnel is not permitted for safety reasons.
Once you're on the board it's fine. Just be careful not to fall in and make sure you bring aqua shoes!! The water is gross. However the scenery is pretty beautiful and its very peaceful and cool to see all the boats. The venue where you pick up your equipment…
It was amazing especially as it was my first time. The instructor was very helpful and explained everything very.
Thanks Tyler was really helpful. No toilet facilities so marked down. Overall: 4 stars
Incredible experience, can't wait to do more
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