What Can I Expect

Kayaking in West Sussex - paddling upstream on the River Arun! Explore West Sussex and the South Downs on these leisurely trips led by an expert kayaking guide. All are invited, whether you're a beginner or an accomplished paddler.

The River Arun flows 37 miles from its source at St Leonard's Forest, through West Sussex, to its estuary in the English Channel at Littlehampton. It can be a pretty fast flowing river and it's actually tidal right up to Pallingham Quay, which is 25-miles in land from the sea!

Your guide will be on the case when it comes to checking the tides to ensure conditions are optimal for your kayaking trip. They will also make sure you're all kitted out with the right gear (this operator uses the sit-on-top style kayaks) and have a clear understanding of the safety procedures before you head off.

Your kayak trip will set off from Stopham Bridge and head upstream to Pallingham Quay. The excursion offers beautiful countryside, views and a whole lot of paddling fun for all ages and abilities.

The upper part of the River Arun at Stopham Bridge starts out quite wide, with open views. As you paddle towards Pallingham, you'll see the course of the water gets narrower and more wild as you go. This is West Sussex's agricultural heart, with ploughed and planted fields, horse studs and farms all around.

These kayaking trips in West Sussex last a good four hours plus, giving you plenty of time to practise your paddling techniques, check out the wildlife and take in the River Arun views. All in all, a lovely day out in the countryside!

When Is It Available

• Selected weekday and weekend dates between March and October

Suitable For

• Suitable for both beginners and regular paddlers
• Minimum age 18
• Maximum weight 18 stone (115kg)
• There are no requirements for this experience but being able to swim 50m and having a reasonable level of fitness is preferable

Spectators

• Due to the nature of this activity it is not suitable for spectators

Anything Else

• Suitable clothing for the time of year should be worn
• A change of clothing and appropriate footwear is also required
• You will form part of a small group for this experience
• You'll achieve the British Canoeing Start Award as part of this trip. If you're brand new to the sport and really want to learn the basics to get started, then this is the award for you. You'll cover everything from getting in and out of the boat, what you need to wear and paddling forward.