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Hertfordshire: Canoe Tour of the River Stort – An Engaging Thameside Escape
The Hertfordshire canoe tour of the River Stort offers a well-rounded 3.5-hour experience that combines paddling, sightseeing, and a relaxed pub stop. Starting from Sawbridgeworth, this tour is designed for those eager to explore the scenic Hertfordshire countryside while enjoying traditional water features like locks and mills.
What makes this trip particularly appealing is the inclusion of canoe or kayak rentals, with single kayaks equipped with skegs for easy tracking, and traditional open canoes for two paddlers. Visitors should be prepared to carry and portage boats at certain points, making this tour best suited for those with some paddling confidence and physical ability. The tour guides lead you through a series of charming stops, culminating in a visit to a riverside country pub or cafe, enhancing the local flavor of this adventure.
The tour’s strength lies in fostering a social paddling experience and offering a fantastic way to see Hertfordshire’s countryside from the water, all while enjoying historical features and a relaxing pub break. A notable highlight, based on positive feedback, is the friendly and helpful guide, ensuring safety and enjoyment at every step.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Duration: 3.5 hours of paddling and sightseeing
- Start point: Sawbridgeworth boatyard, easily accessed from London or Stansted Airport
- Includes: Canoe or kayak rentals, safety equipment, and paddling guidance
- Stops: Traditional locks, watermills, and a riverside pub or cafe
- Physical requirements: Ability to carry and portage boats, paddle independently
- Age & weight limits: Suitable for paddlers over 11 years old and under 264 lbs (120 kg)
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Paddling on the River Stort: A Scenic Journey Through Hertfordshire
This canoe tour takes place on the River Stort Navigation, an area rich with locks and historic watermills. Starting from Sawbridgeworth, the experience begins with a safety briefing and equipment setup at the whoosh explore canoe club base. Afterward, you’ll set out into the Hertfordshire countryside, paddling upstream toward Tednambury lock, where you’ll work together to portage boats around locks that have operated since 1753.
The journey offers views of traditional watermills in the distance, giving a glimpse of the area’s water-powered heritage. The upstream paddling is designed to be approachable for those with some paddling experience, but it requires the ability to paddle independently and to carry boats during portages. The entire route emphasizes teamwork and safety, with guide-led instructions facilitating a smooth trip.
Exploring Tednambury Lock and Its Historic Charm
One of the main features of the tour is navigating Tednambury lock, an authentic water lock that has been part of the river since the 18th century. Paddlers work as a team to carry boats over the lock, experiencing a hands-on connection to Hertfordshire’s waterway history. The locks, combined with the views of old watermills, offer picturesque moments that are perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
The paddling experience is tailored to be fun and engaging, with the experienced guides explaining the history and mechanics of the locks. This makes it not just an active outing but also a chance to learn about the local heritage in a relaxed setting.
The Stop at a Traditional Thatched Country Pub
Following the upstream paddle, the tour makes a short walk to a riverside pub with a thatched roof, just a stone’s throw from the river. Guests have the option to purchase snacks or drinks and relax in the pub’s garden or interior. The pub stop provides a welcome break, with some choosing to extend their visit and enjoy Hertfordshire’s hospitality.
This stop transforms the paddling journey into a social adventure and a culinary one, as visitors can unwind with refreshments while overlooking the river. The pub’s proximity to the river makes it easy to return by boat for the trip back.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return Paddle to Sawbridgeworth
The final phase of the tour involves paddling back downstream on the River Stort, heading toward the starting point at Sawbridgeworth boatyard. The return trip offers a different perspective, with calmer waters and more relaxed paddling as you wind down the experience.
The group size is managed by the guides, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment. Since the tour lasts 3.5 hours, it provides ample time to enjoy the scenery, work on paddling skills, and socialize with fellow paddlers.
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Practical Details: Meeting Point and Access
The meeting point is at the Whoosh Explore Canoe Club at Cambridge Road, Sawbridgeworth, located near Leventhorpe School. Access is straightforward via train from London Liverpool Street to Sawbridgeworth station, just a short walk along the river towpath. For those traveling by car, the route via M11 junction 7a is convenient.
The dirt track leading to the base is easy to find, and coordinates are provided for precise navigation. The tour operates with English-speaking instructors who guide you through safety procedures and paddling techniques.
Equipment and Physical Requirements
Guests are provided with boats, paddles, and buoyancy aids at the start. The kayaks are single-person and feature hatches for storage and drinks, making for a comfortable paddling experience. Traditional open canoes are also available for two paddlers.
Participants must be capable of carrying and portaging boats, which involves some lifting and walking with equipment. The tour emphasizes independent paddling, so applicants should be comfortable with basic paddling skills. The tour is not suitable for children under 11 years or for individuals over 264 lbs (120 kg).
The Guides and Safety Measures
The guides at Whoosh Explore Canoe Club are described as helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable, ensuring safety and enjoyment for all paddlers. Safety equipment, including buoyancy aids, must be worn at all times. The guides explain navigation and safety procedures thoroughly before setting out.
Guests are responsible for any damage caused by misuse of the equipment, which is charged at the repair cost if applicable. The English-speaking instructors focus on a safe, enjoyable experience suitable for all paddlers with some prior ability.
Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy
The tour offers a “Reserve now & pay later” option, allowing flexible booking without immediate payment. Cancellations are fully refundable if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing reassurance for those with uncertain schedules.
A Review Highlight: Friendly Service and Enjoyable Experience
Based on the sole review available, the “Peter” guide was praised for being kind, helpful, and friendly, making the canoe trip enjoyable. The reviewer states they would definitely do this again and highly recommend the experience, emphasizing the positive atmosphere created by the staff.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This canoe trip is ideal for adventurers who enjoy outdoor water activities and are comfortable with some physical exertion. It suits paddlers with some experience and those eager to explore Hertfordshire’s waterways in a social setting. The combination of paddling, historical features, and a pub stop makes it a great choice for groups of friends, couples, or active individuals.
Final Thoughts on the Hertfordshire Canoe Tour
The 3.5-hour paddle on the River Stort offers a unique blend of activity, history, and relaxation. The opportunity to see traditional locks and watermills, combined with the pub visit, makes this a memorable local adventure. While it requires some paddling ability and physical effort, the friendly guides and well-organized setup** ensure a positive experience.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits with a touch of heritage and social appeal. It provides good value for money, especially given the inclusion of equipment, guidance, and the pub stop.
Ready to Book?
Hertfordshire: Canoe tour of the River Stort
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 11 years old.
What should I bring?
Bring clothing suitable for paddling and weather conditions; all necessary equipment is provided.
Do I need prior paddling experience?
Some paddling experience or comfort with paddling independently is recommended, as well as the ability to carry and portage boats.
How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour departs from the Whoosh Explore Canoe Club at Cambridge Road, Sawbridgeworth, accessible via train from London or by car via M11 junction 7a.
Can I cancel after booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.
Is safety equipment provided?
Yes, buoyancy aids and safety gear are included and must be worn during the trip.
What is the physical difficulty level?
Participants should be able to carry boats and paddle independently; the tour involves some lifting, walking, and paddling.
Are traditional canoes available?
Yes, suitable for two paddlers, alongside single kayaks with skegs.
How long is the paddling section?
The paddling lasts approximately 3 hours, with an additional safety briefing at the start.
Can I bring drinks or snacks?
Yes, the kayaks have hatches for storing drinks or small items, and you can purchase refreshments at the riverside pub.
This Hertfordshire canoe tour of the River Stort provides a well-organized, scenic, and engaging water adventure, perfect for those seeking a local outdoor activity with a historical touch and social element.
You can check availability for your dates here:
