Canoe Hire Adventure with Henley Canoe Hire
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour to full day
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed; suitable for beginners and families with children age 5 and up.
Overview
Henley Canoe Hire offers paddlers of all ages a chance to navigate the scenic Thames with trips from one hour to full-day adventures. Discover wildlife, riverside pubs, and iconic landmarks on this unique canoe experience.
Canoe Hire
From 5 years on • Henley to Henley Hire • 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours and full day canoe rental
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About This Adventure
Experience the beauty of Henley with canoe hire, offering scenic paddling routes for all ages. Choose from one-hour jaunts to full-day adventures, exploring charming backwaters, spotting wildlife, and enjoying riverside pubs. Perfect for families and friends, this unique outing combines relaxation, nature, and fun on the water.
Duration: 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, full day
Henley to Henley Hire
About
Henley Canoe Hire have designed some fantastic paddling routes that have easy access points, accessible parking with easy transport links and allow for a fun day’s paddle allowing enough time to take in the views from the river, have a picnic or a pub lunch.
Space for 2 adults and 1 child (or 2 U12 children), or up to 3 adults per canoe. Min age: 5.
1 Hour & 2 Hours
Pop downriver under the bridge to the Royal Regatta course and the Leander Club and back upriver to our cabin. Exploring the finest views of Henley.
3 Hours
Specially designed for those who want to either paddle to the pub and back in Wargrave for a quick drink, or a relaxing paddle around the local area for a few hours on the river.
Full Day
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Our suggestion is that you paddle upstream and through Marsh Lock heading towards Shiplake and Wargrave along the main part of the river, past Paul Daniels' house.
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The St George and Dragon pub awaits thirsty and hungry paddlers.
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On the way up or down river, duck down under the tiny bridge and discover the Hennerton Backwater. Kingfishers, herons and other wildlife can be spotted in this little known backwater.
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If you return to Henley early paddle under Henley Bridge and see the regatta course before heading back upstream where you can treat yourselves to a well earned ice cream!
or
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Paddle downstream along the regatta course and past temple island and through Hambledon lock.
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Be sure to leave enough time for the upstream paddle which some times gets quite windy!
Important
A. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult in their canoe.
B. Youngest allowed passenger is 5 years.
C. Children and adults participate subject to a correctly fitted buoyancy aid.
D. A minimum of 2 people must paddle a Canadian canoe.
E. Each booking will have a designated party leader who will be aged 21 years or older and will accompany the booking, on the water, at all times.
Adventure Tips
Wear a buoyancy aid at all times
Safety is a priority; all paddlers under 16 must wear buoyancy aids and be accompanied by an adult.
Pack waterproof sunscreen
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can reflect off the water—protect your skin during your trip.
Check weather conditions before setting out
River winds can pick up unexpectedly, especially on longer routes; plan accordingly.
Bring a dry bag for valuables
Keep your keys, phone, and snacks safe and dry while paddling.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kingfishers flitting along the bank
- Herons standing sentinel in the shallow backwaters
History
Henley-on-Thames has hosted the prestigious Royal Regatta since 1839, making the river an iconic part of British rowing culture.
Conservation
Henley Canoe Hire promotes low-impact paddling and educates visitors on preserving the delicate river ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Buoyancy aid
Mandatory for safety on the water for all participants.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and rain especially on cooler days.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sunhat and sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during extended paddling sessions.
summer specific
Dry bag
Keeps personal items ranging from phones to snacks dry while on the river.