Your experience begins with a warm welcome at Arden Sailing Club, where you’ll meet your instructor and get kitted out with a paddleboard, paddle, and safety gear. After a relaxed introduction, you’ll move into a land-based session covering the basics of stand-up paddleboarding. This includes an overview of the board and equipment, how to launch safely, and key techniques like kneeling, standing, forward strokes, and turning. You’ll also be introduced to safety skills, including self-rescue and how to read your surroundings on the river.
Once everyone is confident with the basics, it’s time to launch onto the River Avon. Starting in kneeling position, you’ll gradually build your confidence before transitioning to standing when ready. The group moves at a steady pace downstream, travelling from Arden Sailing Club to Nafford Lock via Eckington Bridge. Along the way, your instructor will give tips and feedback while pointing out local wildlife such as kingfishers, herons, and the occasional otter. For those who feel comfortable, there’s the option to try extra techniques such as pivot turns or even a bit of SUP yoga balance work.
The session finishes with a safe exit from the water, followed by a relaxed debrief and the chance to chat about your experience. If you’ve worked up an appetite, you can take advantage of a 10% discount at Revill’s Farm Shop next door—perfect for lunch or coffee with your group. Whether you’re new to paddleboarding or just want to unwind in a beautiful riverside setting, this experience is designed to be accessible, enjoyable, and memorable.
The SUP Safari route runs from Arden Sailing Club to Nafford Lock, following a peaceful stretch of the River Avon. The journey passes through a mix of open countryside and tree-lined riverbanks near Eckington Bridge, where wildlife such as red kites, herons, and even otters are frequently seen.
This area offers one of the most scenic paddling spots in Worcestershire, away from busy waterways and roads.
No previous paddleboarding experience is required. Participants must be able to swim at least 50 metres and be comfortable in and around open water. If you have any physical or neurodiverse needs, let the team know in advance—they’re happy to tailor the experience to ensure your comfort and safety.
The centre is an ASI-accredited SUP school, recognised with the ‘Experience of the Year’ award by Visit Worcestershire for its outstanding delivery and customer experience. Sessions are led by friendly, qualified instructors who prioritise safety, confidence-building, and enjoyment on the water.
Each experience is carefully designed to suit beginners and those new to paddleboarding, with time built in for individual support, wildlife spotting, and optional skill progression. The group size is kept small to ensure a personalised approach, and part of each booking contributes to the work of the Kemerton Conservation Trust. Guests also benefit from exclusive discounts at Revill’s Farm Shop next door—perfect for a post-paddle lunch or coffee.
The River Avon is a haven for wildlife. During your safari, you might spot deer swimming, Red Kites soaring above, and an array of birds like Martins, Skylarks, and Swallows. The spring season often brings sightings of nesting birds, curious lambs, and even rare curlews.
Keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers, herons, wagtails, Canada Geese, swans, buzzards, Red Kites, otters, and the magical sight of blooming blossoms along the riverbanks.
Not at all! Our SUP River Safari is designed for absolute beginners and intermediates looking for a refresher.
Our skilled instructors will guide you through all the basics, from kneel paddling to standing up, ensuring you feel confident and safe throughout the journey.
Comfortable, quick-drying clothing is ideal for paddleboarding. We suggest a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection against the sun. Water shoes or old trainers are recommended for your feet.
Don't forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes for after the session. If you're prone to getting chilly, a lightweight waterproof jacket might be a good addition.
At Wittering SUP, we're committed to making paddleboarding accessible to everyone. If you or a loved one has a specific ability or disability that might affect your experience, please contact us in advance.
We'll tailor the session to ensure a comfortable and safe environment, providing any necessary support or adaptations.
The safety and enjoyment of our participants are paramount. We monitor weather conditions closely and will contact you if we need to reschedule due to unsuitable weather (like strong winds or lightning).
If the session is cancelled, we'll offer the option to rebook for another day or provide a full refund. Light rain usually doesn't impede our safaris, but we'll always prioritise safety.
About the centre
River Avon, Defford, Worcestershire
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 Wittering SUP, a partner of adventuro.
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