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Paddle along the Beaulieu River this winter with New Forest Activities’ Christmas Canoe Paddle—a unique family-friendly trip featuring a special on-water visit from Santa. Discover a festive way to experience the New Forest outdoors.
Paddle along the Beaulieu River this winter with New Forest Activities’ Christmas Canoe Paddle—a unique family-friendly trip featuring a special on-water visit from Santa. Discover a festive way to experience the New Forest outdoors.
Book with New Forest Activities
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by New Forest Activities · Beaulieu, England
Situated along the tranquil waters of the Beaulieu River in Hampshire, England, New Forest Activities offers a memorable way to celebrate the festive season with their Christmas Canoe Paddle. Located at Bailey's Hard on Bailey's Hard Lane in Beaulieu, this family-friendly outing combines the natural charm of the New Forest region with the magic of the holidays, transforming a riverside paddle into a seasonal adventure.
The Beaulieu River is a calm, slow-moving stretch of water that meanders through rich woodland and marshland habitats characteristic of the New Forest National Park, an area designated for its ancient forestry, diverse wildlife, and protected landscapes. As you glide through the mostly flat waterways, hear birdsong and maybe spot wintering waterfowl and deer along the banks.
New Forest Activities has crafted a 90-minute guided canoe journey designed for families and paddlers of all skill levels. What sets this trip apart is a whimsical encounter with Santa Claus himself—arriving in his own canoe loaded with presents, creating an unforgettable moment for children and adults alike. The guides provide buoyancy aids and waterproof gear to keep everyone safe and comfortable in typical British winter weather, making the paddle accessible even to toddlers aged two and up.
This experience is not just about festive fun but also about connecting with the seasonal quietude of the New Forest outdoors. The gentle rhythm of paddling combined with panoramic winter light filtering through bare trees creates a serene backdrop for making holiday memories. Whether it’s your first canoe trip or one of many, the welcoming staff and peaceful river scenery offer a fresh way to mark the season away from the usual holiday hustle.
By anchoring their trip in a location rich with ecological and cultural significance, New Forest Activities stands out as a destination that balances outdoor recreation with local heritage. Their Christmas Canoe Paddle invites visitors to engage actively with this unique environment during winter, making it a highlight on the New Forest’s calendar of outdoor offerings.
easy.
1.5 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels including young children, with minimal physical exertion required on this calm water route.
Yes, the trip is family-friendly and suitable for children as young as two, with buoyancy aids provided for safety.
Waterproof clothing is supplied, and sessions run barring severe weather; cancellations and reschedules are handled by New Forest Activities.
No experience is necessary. Friendly guides lead the trip and help with paddling techniques throughout.
Meet at Bailey's Hard on Bailey's Hard Lane, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst SO42 7YF, UK, with arrivals 30 minutes before the start time.
Yes, every child meets Santa on the water and receives a special gift as part of the experience.
Food and drinks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring water or snacks for breaks if needed.
The Beaulieu River area has long-standing maritime significance, and nearby Beaulieu village houses the historic Palace House and the National Motor Museum.
New Forest Activities supports eco-friendly practices, emphasizing low-impact paddling to protect the river’s natural habitats.
New Forest Activities is an outdoor activity provider based in Beaulieu, England, offering guided paddling, woodland and combat experiences on the Beaulieu River and surrounding forest. The operator runs a range of family-friendly and specialist sessions including BattleZone infrared combat games, Family Kayaking 90-minute guided tours, Family Canoeing, canoe hire, kayak hire, walk-in bike hire and archery. BattleZone sessions include adults-only and themed events such as BattleZone Special OPS, BattleZone at Bailey's Hard, BattleZone: Apocalypse! and seasonal scenarios like The Great Grinchmas Heist. These 2-hour, non-projectile infrared games are suitable for ages from 8 or 14 depending on the event and focus on tactical play without messy paint. Paddling options feature guided Family Kayaking, Ladies Only Paddling coached by female instructors, the River Explorer, Paddle to the Pub one-way trips, Christmas Canoe Paddle and Winter Paddling. The 90-minute guided kayak tour on the Beaulieu River is noted for wildlife spotting and gentle taster sessions suitable for beginners. Safety equipment is provided for paddling and canoeing activities. Seasonal and themed choices include Halloween Archery Pumpkin Shooting, Canoe Halloween Treasure Hunt, Spooky Halloween River Tour and other family-focused events. New Forest Activities also offers Discover Team Building tasters for organisations exploring woodland-based team days. Booking and activity requests can be made through the operator’s site or visit. Activities use non-projectile infrared gaming guns for pain-free fun and stable Canadian canoes for confident paddling. Expert instructors lead woodland sessions and archery, ensuring safe, enjoyable experiences that create memories for friends, families and groups.
Book with New Forest Activities