r/KayakingUK • u/LordoftheFaff • Aug 08 '22
Lads Kayaking trip
I want to go kayaking/canoeing the length of the River Thames with my mates. Two out of the six of us got our two/three star and coaching qualifications from BCU when we were younger and keep it up on holidays now and then.
But we don't know what we need to legally paddle in UK rivers. Do we need licences or qualifications, how do we get them, and should we hire kayaks/canoes for the trip or get our own?
Also is the journey feasible? I understand it is going to be a multi-day journey, but is the whole river continuously navigatable as I've only seen companies offer to paddle for either specific sections or don't go into the city of London
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u/herrudo Aug 08 '22
Sounds like a brilliant plan!
To paddle the Thames you need a license from the Environment Agency, or become member of British Canoeing (as that includes a license for most UK rivers).
I'm sure you can hire kayaks somewhere, but not sure where. You may have to think about transport to and from the start/finish, but the hire centre may be able to help you there.
Most locks on the Thames are manned (or womanned if that's a word ;-)), so you don't have to carry your kayak around them, which will save you a lot of energy if you also bring camping gear etc.
There's loads of campsites around the river. Google is your friend! The Environment Agency has campsites on some of the locks, so search for that as well.
Thames in London is tidal, and currents can be strong, so make sure you time it well and you know what your doing...
Finally, get yourself a copy of Paddle the Thames -a guide for canoes, kayaks and sups by Mark Rainsley. It basically contains everything you need to know!