Give Kayaking and Canoeing a Try This Weekend
Introductory sessions being held as part of Active Thames Festival
Chelsea Kayak Club is hosting beginner kayaking sessions. Picture: Active Thames
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July 10, 2026
The Active Thames Festival arrives in Brentford this weekend, bringing a burst of waterside activity to Brentford as local clubs open their doors for a celebration of kayaking, canoeing and family-friendly adventure along the tidal Thames.
Across London, Kent and Essex, the festival aims to make watersports more accessible, affordable and welcoming, encouraging residents to discover the rivers and waterways on their doorstep. In Brentford, two clubs are offering hands-on sessions designed for beginners, families and anyone curious to try something new.
Chelsea Kayak Club is hosting beginner kayaking sessions on Saturday 11 July at Unit 5, Kew Bridge Arches on Strand-on-the-Green. The 90-minute class, priced at £20, is open to adults aged 18 and over, with no previous experience required. Participants will be guided by qualified instructors who introduce the basics of paddling, safety and technique before heading out onto the Thames for a gentle exploration of the river. With only six spaces per session, the club promises a supportive, small-group environment and a chance to enjoy the river’s scenery from a fresh perspective.
On Sunday 12 July, Edge Progressive Paddling is offering canoe experiences at Paddlers Avenue (TW8 8FP), with two sessions available at 14:00 and 15:30 for £10 per canoe. These sessions are designed for all ages and all genders. Each canoe can seat combinations of adults, teenagers and small children, and coaches will help groups choose the right setup. The experience includes 45 minutes on the water and 15 minutes of preparation, with buoyancy aids, paddles and coaching provided. Participants are encouraged to arrive in activewear they don’t mind getting wet and to bring a change of clothes, as changing facilities are limited. Sessions run in most weather conditions, with refunds or rescheduling offered if conditions become unsafe.
Both events form part of a wider programme coordinated with Paddle UK and Active Thames partners, who are working to open up the Thames and connected waterways for kayaking, canoeing, rowing, sailing, paddleboarding, swimming, walking and running.
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