Paddle 17km along the scenic River Derwent with Rapid Horizons Ltd for a full day of paddling, nature, and history in Derbyshire. Navigate mild rapids, enjoy a riverside lunch at Cromford Mills, and connect with England’s industrial heritage.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended; suitable for those comfortable with extended paddling and standing for brief moments during breaks.
Wildlife
History
Cromford Mills was an early industrial site founded in the 1770s, playing a key role in Britain’s first factory system.
Conservation
Rapid Horizons Ltd emphasizes low-impact paddling and educates visitors on preserving riverbank habitats and native wildlife.
Rapid Horizons Ltd
Paddle 17km along the scenic River Derwent with Rapid Horizons Ltd for a full day of paddling, nature, and history in Derbyshire. Navigate mild rapids, enjoy a riverside lunch at Cromford Mills, and connect with England’s industrial heritage.
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-dry clothing
Expect to get splashed navigating rapids; synthetic or moisture-wicking fabrics dry faster than cotton.
Arrive early for orientation
The guided tour starts with a paddle technique briefing; being punctual ensures you don’t miss safety instructions.
Pack light waterproof essentials
Bring only what fits into a dry bag—phone, snacks, and a camera to avoid water damage.
Prepare for moderate physical exertion
The 6-hour trip requires stamina and some upper body strength for controlling the canoe through rapids.
Waterproof dry bag
Protects valuables and keeps essentials dry during rapids and splash zones.
Quick-dry clothing
Ensures comfort by drying quickly when wet and avoids chilling.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during sequences of continuous paddling, especially in summer heat.
summer
Sun hat & sunscreen
Protect skin and eyes from direct sunlight during open river stretches.
summer