What Can I Expect

Super SUP safaris on the River Avon! Peaceful paddle boarding to discover the flora and fauna of this quiet corner of Worcestershire on these thoroughly lovely days out for all levels of ability.

Lots of places offer paddleboarding sessions, but few have such an idyllic setting to discover as you paddle, which is why this experience is called the SUP safari. It's far away from the roads and the perfect habitat for a wealth of wildlife. Indeed, there are parts of the Avon that can only really be reached by water, so you've got it sussed when you go SUPing!

The section of the River Avon you'll be paddling along is a delight. You launch from the Arden Sailing Club base at Defford and paddle your way along past Ecklington Bridge to Nafford Lock and Weir, all at a gentle, relaxed pace.

Keep your eyes peeled along the banks of the Avon. You might spot herons, swans, wagtails and Canada geese. If you're really lucky, you could come across a roaming deer or a colourful kingfisher swooping in amongst the low-hanging trees.

And don't worry if you're not much of a David Attenborough type. All SUP safaris on the Avon are led by James or one of his paddle boarding team and, knowing this area of Worcestershire like the proverbial backs of their hands, they will be able to tell what all the birds and animals are - and where to find them. (Make sure you ask James what his favourite wildlife ‘spot' has been!).

Before you head off, there's a land-side briefing where everything is explained to you before putting the boards into the water and practice kneeling on the board. Then it's all about the paddling (the paddle stroke is in five phases). As confidence builds, you'll be able to move from kneeling to standing.

With an instructor by your side, you're sure to soon get the hang of stand-up paddle boarding. After that, it's a very chilled out and very lovely little trip on your SUP along the River Avon. The whole experience will last around two and a half hours, with a maximum group size of just six paddlers out on the water together.

When Is It Available

• Weekdays and weekends betweem March and October
• Sessions generally start at 09:30 finishing at 12:00

Suitable For

• Minimum age 12
• Under 18s must be accompanied by a participating adult
• All participants must be able to swim 50m
• Suitable for absolute beginners or those with experience looking for a refresher or an adventure
• A minimum of two vouchers must be purchased for this experience

Anything Else

• Onsite toilets and changing rooms
• Light refreshments can be purchased
• Quick drying and sun safe clothes are recommended (shorts and T-shirts in summer, layers during cooler months)
• Please bring a towel and change of clothes