Stand-up Paddleboard Lesson on River Avon for Beginners

Paddle into a quiet wilderness and learn to read the river

A 2.5-hour stand-up paddleboard lesson and safari on the River Avon in England, taught by ASI-qualified coaches to absolute beginners age 8 and up. You learn to kneel and stand on the board, paddle strokes, turning and safety before heading out to spot deer, Red Kites and other wildlife on the slow, winding river. All gear, instruction, changing facilities and hot showers are included. Free parking and a 10% discount at the onsite farm shop apply.

The experience

What does it take to go from never having paddled to actually exploring a river on your own board? This class answers that question in one morning. You start on the water with an ASI Technical Coach who walks you through the fundamentals: how to kneel on the board, how to stand without falling, the paddle stroke that moves you forward and the turns that let you steer. The River Avon is slow and winding, which means the current won't fight you while you're learning, and the quiet stretches away from roads and towns give you space to focus on technique without distraction.

Once you've got the basics down, the safari part begins. The river here is full of creatures: deer swim through during summer, and Red Kites are starting to shadow paddlers as they move along the water. You're not just watching wildlife from a distance. You're moving through their habitat at the pace of a paddle stroke, which changes what you notice and what notices you. Every ticket sold contributes to the Kemerton Conservation Trust, so the money goes back into protecting the spaces you're paddling through.

The setup takes the logistics off your plate: all gear is provided, changing facilities and hot showers are onsite, and free parking means you don't hunt for a spot. If neurodiversity or a disability might affect your time on the water, the team will work with you beforehand to plan an experience that feels safe and right for you.

What’s included

• All paddleboard gear and safety equipment.
• instruction from an ASI-qualified SUP Technical Coach.
• changing facilities and hot showers onsite.
• free private parking.
• 10% discount at Revil's Farm Shop and Cafe.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:30

AgesAdult (18 to 64 years) · Senior (65 to 80 years) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (8 to 11 years) · Under 8: can't be included in the booking

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “To find us: Go through the Revill’s Farm Shop car park and follow the dirt track to the right of the main building until you reach the carpark following Wittering SUP signs!”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Wittering SUP

Is this one for you?The 2.5-hour format means you learn the fundamentals and paddle the river in one session, which suits anyone who wants to move from beginner to actually paddling in a single morning without splitting it across multiple days.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (8 to 11 years). Under 8: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

Do I need to know how to swim to paddleboard on the River Avon?

You need to be able to swim at least 50 meters, which is a safety requirement for anyone on the water. If you can manage that distance, you have the foundation the coach needs to teach you.

What's the River Avon like for beginners, is it fast or rough?

The River Avon is slow and winding, which is exactly why it works for learning. The gentle pace means you can focus on your technique without fighting a current, and the quiet stretches give you room to practice before you head out on the safari.

What do I get to take away from this, or is it just the lesson?

The 2.5-hour experience covers everything you need to start paddleboarding: the instruction, all the gear, and the skills to paddle safely on your own. You leave knowing how to stand, stroke and turn, and you've already done it on an actual river.

Are there facilities to change and clean up afterward?

Changing facilities and hot showers are all onsite, so you can rinse off and get dry before you leave. Free parking is also available, and you'll get a 10% discount at Revil's Farm Shop and Cafe if you want a hot drink or lunch before heading home.

Can my family come along if we've never paddled before?

The class is designed for absolute beginners age 8 and up, so families and friend groups can learn together. Children from age 8 are welcome as long as they can swim at least 50 meters.