Paddle through the calm and rushing currents of the River Derwent with Rapid Horizons Ltd in Ambergate. Perfect for families and beginners looking to gain whitewater skills in Derbyshire’s scenic outdoors.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic level of fitness recommended; ability to sit and paddle for extended periods is necessary.
Wildlife
History
The River Derwent powered mills during Derbyshire’s industrial rise, remnants of which can still be seen from the water.
Conservation
Rapid Horizons Ltd emphasizes low-impact practices to protect the river’s ecology and promote sustainable recreation.
Rapid Horizons Ltd
Paddle through the calm and rushing currents of the River Derwent with Rapid Horizons Ltd in Ambergate. Perfect for families and beginners looking to gain whitewater skills in Derbyshire’s scenic outdoors.
About Rapid Horizons Ltd
Rapid Horizons Ltd is an Ambergate-based outdoor activity provider offering guided paddleboarding, river rafting, canoeing, kayaking and river tubing in and around the Peak District. Operating from Ambergate, England, the company runs sessions on the Cromford Canal and on the River Derwent, delivering experiences designed for beginners through to novice paddlers.
Guided by experienced instructors and expert guides, Rapid Horizons Ltd provides structured sessions that combine skill teaching with scenic routes. Sessions include an Intro To Paddleboarding along a 3km stretch of Cromford Canal, a River Rafting trip featuring grade 2 rapids, a Full Day Canoeing Adventure with a lunch stop at historic Cromford Mills, and rapid tours suitable for beginners using user-friendly inflatable kayaks.
The business offers family-friendly options with activities suitable for ages 6 and up and shares photos and videos from some experiences on the day. Group-friendly options are available for friends, families and event groups, including stag and hen parties. The Full Day Canoeing Adventure is promoted as a five-star experience in the supplied trip summary.
Rapid Horizons Ltd focuses on delivering safe, guided outdoor water activities using local rivers and canals, leveraging local knowledge of the River Derwent and Cromford Canal around Ambergate to create memorable, accessible paddling experiences.
Location
Ambergate, England
Based in the Peak District area
Tours Offered
6 trips
Range of paddle and river experiences
Key Rivers
River Derwent
Trips include the River Derwent
Family Friendly
Ages 6+
Suitable options for children
Reserve a spot on paddleboarding, rafting, canoeing, kayaking or tubing trips on the River Derwent and Cromford Canal — guided sessions for all abilities.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Expect to get splashed on rapids—clothes that dry fast improve comfort.
Book early in warmer months
Slots fill quickly during spring and summer weekends; reserve ahead.
Arrive with appropriate footwear
Flat, secure water shoes with a good grip protect feet on slippery riverbeds.
Listen to your guide’s instructions
Follow safety and paddling tips carefully to navigate rapids smoothly.
Water shoes
Protects feet and provides grip on wet surfaces.
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable as you get wet on the rapids.
Waterproof jacket
Useful for light rain and wind during shoulder seasons.
spring
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects skin from prolonged sun exposure while on the river.
summer