From first strokes to confident paddling, WHATSUP Training’s full-day Discover Paddleboarding course in Thrapston builds skills and safety knowledge for independent ventures on the water. Earn your Paddle UK Discover Award in the heart of Northamptonshire.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to manage sustained paddling and balance over the full day course.
Wildlife
History
Thrapston’s waterways have supported commerce and leisure since the medieval period, contributing to the town’s historic character.
Conservation
Local initiatives aim to protect water quality and native wildlife habitats, encouraging responsible paddleboarding and outdoor recreation.
WHATSUP Training
From first strokes to confident paddling, WHATSUP Training’s full-day Discover Paddleboarding course in Thrapston builds skills and safety knowledge for independent ventures on the water. Earn your Paddle UK Discover Award in the heart of Northamptonshire.
WHATSUP Training is a Thrapston-based stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) provider delivering coached sessions and certified award courses on the River Nene. The operation runs a range of SUP experiences designed for beginners through to paddlers preparing to paddle independently. Sessions include one-to-one coaching, private group sessions, introductory courses leading to the PaddleUK Start Award, and a full-day Discover Paddleboarding course that leads to the PaddleUK Discover Award.
Instruction is delivered by a Level 3 PaddleUK SUP coach, emphasising technique, safety and trip planning. WHATSUP Training uses Progressive, structured coaching to build confidence on the water while covering equipment use, water safety, and practical skills. Group sessions are organised for family and friends and include guided practice, games and optional award assessment opportunities.
A signature seasonal offering is the Night Paddle on the River Nene, conducted in natural light for a themed evening experience. Courses vary in length from two-hour introductory and private sessions to a six-hour Discover course. All experiences take place from WHATSUP Training’s base in Thrapston, England, on accessible stretches of the River Nene.
WHATSUP Training focuses on measurable skill development through PaddleUK award pathways, qualified coaching delivery and locally staged SUP experiences. The programme is suited to new paddlers seeking a structured introduction, groups wanting a coached social session, and paddlers pursuing PaddleUK Start and Discover certifications.
Location
Thrapston, England
Based on the River Nene
Tours Offered
5
Range of SUP experiences available
Certifications
PaddleUK Start & Discover
Award courses on offer
Qualified Coach
Level 3
PaddleUK SUP coach delivery
Secure a place on a Bespoke Coached Session, Private Group Session, Start or Discover Award course, or the seasonal Night Paddle on the River Nene — all led by a Level 3 PaddleUK SUP coach.
Wear a buoyancy aid
Always use a buoyancy aid during the course to ensure safety on the water.
Check local weather before heading out
Wind and rain can affect water conditions significantly; plan your session accordingly.
Bring waterproof phone protection
Keep your phone secure and dry to maintain communication and capture moments.
Arrive early for equipment briefing
Get the most from your course by attending the full safety and instruction session before paddling.
Buoyancy aid / life jacket
Provides critical flotation support and is mandatory for safety throughout the course.
Waterproof clothing or wetsuit
Keeps you warm and dry, especially in cooler months and splash-prone environments.
fall|winter|spring
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Protects your skin and eyes from strong sun exposure during open-water paddling.
summer
Waterproof bag or dry bag
Useful for securing valuables or extra layers while on the water.