Whoosh Explore Canoe Club offers a unique opportunity to discover the tranquil beauty of the River Stort in Hertfordshire. Led by experienced guides, their 3.5-hour canoe and kayak tours provide a chance to take in the picturesque countryside, encounter traditional locks and mills, and meet fellow adventurers. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the tours cater to all skill levels, with single-person kayaks and two-person canoes available. But the true highlight? A refreshing stop at a local pub, where you can relax and reflect on your journey through this serene waterway.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Tours In Sawbridgeworth.
Key Points
- Whoosh Explore Canoe Club offers guided canoe and kayak tours on the River Stort in Hertfordshire, providing an opportunity to explore the picturesque countryside.
- The 3.5-hour tours include a stop at a local pub for a refreshing break and feature encounters with traditional locks and mills.
- Participants can choose between single-person kayaks or two-person canoes, with all necessary equipment and safety gear provided.
- The tours are suitable for adventurers of all skill levels, with experienced instructors leading the way.
- The tour location is easily accessible from London, with a convenient starting point at the Sawbridgeworth boatyard.
About Whoosh Explore Canoe Club
Whoosh Explore Canoe Club offers guided canoe and kayak tours on the River Stort, providing visitors the opportunity to explore the Hertfordshire countryside.
Led by experienced instructors, the 3.5-hour tours depart from the Sawbridgeworth boatyard, allowing participants to paddle past traditional locks and mills.
The itinerary includes a stop at a local pub, where paddlers can enjoy a refreshing break.
Suitable for all skill levels, the tours feature single-person kayaks and two-person canoes, with buoyancy aids provided.
Easily accessible from London by train or car, and near London Stansted Airport, Whoosh Explore Canoe Club offers an ideal way to experience the natural beauty of the River Stort.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Sawbridgeworth
River Stort Canoe and Kayak Tours
From the Sawbridgeworth boatyard, the River Stort canoe and kayak tours offer a 3.5-hour exploration of the Hertfordshire countryside.
Paddlers will encounter traditional locks and mills, stop for a refreshing break at a local country pub, and meet like-minded adventurers.
The tour includes:
- Single-person kayaks or two-person canoes
- Buoyancy aids for adults and children
- Supervision by an experienced instructor
- Independent paddling with a personal risk assessment
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, these tours provide a unique opportunity to discover the natural beauty and tranquility of the River Stort while enjoying a fun, social experience.
Tour Itinerary and Highlights
The River Stort canoe and kayak tours kick off at the Sawbridgeworth boatyard, where participants can choose between single-person kayaks or two-person canoes.
After a 75-minute kayaking session, the group takes a break at a local bar to enjoy a refreshment.
The tour then continues with another hour of kayaking, allowing paddlers to take in the traditional locks and mills along the Hertfordshire countryside.
A 10-minute break precedes the final leg, where participants paddle back to the starting point.
Throughout the 3.5-hour experience, the group is supervised by an instructor and has the chance to meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts who share their passion for the river.
Kayaks, Canoes, and Safety Gear
For the River Stort canoe and kayak tours, participants can choose between single-person kayaks or two-person canoes, all of which are provided with buoyancy aids for adults and children.
The tours are supervised by experienced instructors, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants. The equipment is well-maintained and suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers.
Key features of the kayaks and canoes include:
- Stable and maneuverable design for easy navigation
- Comfortable seating and adjustable features for a personalized fit
- Waterproof storage compartments for personal belongings
- Paddles and other necessary accessories included
With the proper gear and guidance, participants can focus on seeing the picturesque countryside and exploring the river’s charming locks and mills.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAccessing the Tour Location
Easily reached from London by train or car, the tour’s starting location at Sawbridgeworth boatyard provides convenient access for participants.
It’s also near London Stansted Airport, with a local train connection making it accessible for those traveling from further afield.
The boatyard’s proximity to public transportation options makes it a hassle-free choice for paddlers looking to embark on the River Stort adventure.
Whether driving in from the city or flying in from abroad, the tour’s starting point ensures a seamless journey to the picturesque countryside setting where the canoeing and kayaking excursion begins.
Pub Paddling on River Stort
Often, paddlers delight in the pub paddling experience offered by the River Stort tour, where they can enjoy a refreshing beverage during a break from their aquatic adventures. This pub stop is a cherished part of the River Stort tour, enhancing the overall experience and creating lasting memories for participants.
The tour includes a stop at a local bar, allowing participants to refuel and socialize with fellow paddlers. This break provides a perfect opportunity to:
- Discuss the scenic highlights encountered along the river
- Share tips and techniques for navigating the waterway
- Appreciate the tranquility of the Hertfordshire countryside
- Bond with the group over a shared love of canoeing and kayaking
Traditional Locks and Mills
As paddlers glide along the River Stort, they’re treated to a glimpse of the region’s rich history, with traditional locks and mills dotting the landscape. These architectural wonders not only add to the scenic beauty of the waterway but also offer insight into the area’s industrial past.
| Lock Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Pound Lock | Lifts boats between different water levels |
| Sluice Gate | Regulates water flow for navigation and flood control |
| Weir | Diverts water to power mills and generate electricity |
| Flash Lock | Allows boats to pass through a raised section of the river |
Along the tour, paddlers can observe these fascinating structures and learn about their historical significance, adding depth to their canoe or kayak adventure.
Meeting Like-minded Paddlers
The tours allow paddlers to connect with a community of like-minded adventurers, fostering camaraderie on the water. Meeting new people is a highlight of the Whoosh Explore Canoe Club experience.
Paddlers can:
- Share tips and techniques with experienced kayakers and canoers
- Swap stories about favorite river routes and wildlife sightings
- Organize impromptu social paddles to explore the Stort together
- Plan future excursions to new waterways with the club
This sense of community is what draws many participants back to the Whoosh Explore Canoe Club tours time and again. The shared passion for exploring the local waterways creates lasting connections between paddlers of all skill levels.
Recap
Whoosh Explore Canoe Club’s guided tours on the River Stort provide a unique opportunity to take in the picturesque Hertfordshire countryside.
Led by experienced instructors, the tours offer a choice between kayaks and canoes, and include a refreshing pub stop.
With all necessary equipment provided, the tours cater to adventurers of all skill levels, allowing them to discover traditional locks, mills, and connect with like-minded paddlers.
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