Llangollen: Whitewater River Tubing Adventure & Rapids Run

Summary

River tubing thrills on the Dee with local guides and wild rapids

You’ll start your day in Llangollen gearing up with wetsuits and helmets before hitting the River Dee’s wildest rapids with local guides by your side. Tackle legendary runs like Serpent’s Tail (or skip them if you want), laugh with new friends as you spin through whitewater, and end floating quietly under Welsh skies — still buzzing from it all.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a bit jittery walking into the Bearded Men Adventure Hub in Llangollen — you could smell wet neoprene and that faint river chill in the air. Everyone seemed to be grinning, especially our guide Tom, who handed me a wetsuit and said, “You’ll want this, trust me.” He wasn’t kidding; the River Dee looked colder than I expected. The changing room was full of nervous laughter and people trying to zip up wetsuits that didn’t quite want to cooperate. I sort of fumbled mine but nobody cared.

We piled into their van for a quick drive up to Horseshoe Falls. Tom started telling us about the rapids ahead — apparently Serpent’s Tail is kind of legendary around here. He asked if anyone wanted to try it twice, which made some folks laugh nervously (me included). When we finally got in our tubes (they really do look like giant donuts), I noticed how the water smelled sharp and green, and there was this low roar from downstream that made my stomach flutter. The first rapid spun me around so fast I lost track of where everyone else was — but then I heard someone yell “Go left!” and realized Tom was right beside me, steering us through.

I didn’t expect how much you’d feel every rock under your tube or how cold your hands would get gripping the handles. There were three big rapids — honestly, I still think about that last one when I’m lying awake sometimes. Some people bailed out before Serpent’s Tail (no shame), but a few of us went for it again just for the rush. Afterwards we all just floated quietly for a bit, catching our breath and watching sunlight flicker on the water. It was one of those rare moments where nobody felt like talking — you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whitewater river tubing adventure

• Meet guides at Bearded Men Hub
• Get kitted up and safety briefed
• Drive to Horseshoe Falls starting point
• Prove you can float on water
• Tube down River Dee rapids
• Navigate three major rapids with guides
• Option to run Serpents Tail rapid twice
• Option to avoid rapids if preferred

Top questions

Is river tubing in Llangollen suitable for beginners?

Yes, guides are with you throughout and you can skip any rapids if you prefer.

How long does the whitewater river tubing adventure last?

The activity includes gearing up, transfers, safety briefing, and time on the water; exact duration may vary but plan for several hours total.

Are wetsuits and safety gear provided?

Yes, wetsuits, helmet, buoyancy aid, and socks are included for every participant.

Where does the tour start?

The experience begins at the Bearded Men Adventure Hub in Llangollen.

Can you run Serpent’s Tail rapid more than once?

Yes, there’s an option to tackle Serpent’s Tail twice if you’re feeling adventurous.

Is transportation provided to the starting point?

Yes, transfers from the hub to Horseshoe Falls are included.

Are there health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues; moderate fitness is needed.

What’s included

Your day includes all river tubing equipment: wetsuit with socks, helmet, buoyancy aid; a full safety briefing; guided support from experienced locals; plus transport from the adventure hub to Horseshoe Falls before heading downriver together.