River Severn Canoes: Hampton Loade to Bewdley Canoe Trip
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness is sufficient; able to paddle continuously for several hours and manage light rapids.
Overview
Glide 10 miles down the River Severn on a scenic canoe trip from Hampton Loade to Bewdley with River Severn Canoes. Enjoy gentle rapids, riverside villages, and a charming lunch break in Arley along the way.
Hampton Loade to Bewdley
Ages 7+ • 4 hours • From £14.00 • All equipment included
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About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 10-mile canoe adventure from Hampton Loade to Bewdley, taking in picturesque countryside, gentle rapids, and charming bridges. Enjoy a leisurely lunch start, with the option to ride the Heritage Train. Pause in Arley for refreshments before concluding your journey in the delightful town of Bewdley.
If you'd like a lunch time start and a 4 hour (approx) canoe trip, choose Hampton Loade to Bewdley.
Duration
4 Hours
About
Enjoy a Scenic 10-Mile Canoe Adventure
This stunning 10-mile self-guided canoe trip takes around 4 hours and features beautiful countryside views, gentle rapids, and charming bridges.
Getting Started
Begin your canoe journey at lunchtime, with the option to travel to the starting point via the Heritage Train from Bewdley to Hampton Loade. Trains typically run on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, though this may vary during the summer holidays—be sure to check the latest schedule.
You can either:
Catch the Severn Valley Railway from Bewdley to Hampton Loade, or
Meet us directly at the National Trust car park in Hampton Loade.
Train tickets (when available) can be:
Added to your booking with us, or
Purchased on the day from the Severn Valley Railway booking office.
If you buy your tickets through us, simply show your confirmation email to SVR staff on the day. Check the timetable here: https://svr.co.uk/whats-on/timetables/
Along the Way
Take a break in the lovely village of Arley, where you can enjoy refreshments at:
The Harbour Inn, or
The Riverside Tea Rooms.
There are also scenic beach areas perfect for resting or enjoying a picnic.
Ending in Bewdley
Your trip finishes in beautiful Bewdley, where you’ll find:
Traditional pubs
Fish & chip shops
Ice cream parlours
Alternative Transport Options
If trains aren’t running on your chosen day, we recommend:
Leaving a car at both ends (car parks are available in Hampton Loade and Bewdley), or
Booking a taxi or Uber for your return journey.
Adventure Tips
Check Heritage Train Schedules in Advance
If you plan to travel to Hampton Loade by train, confirm the Severn Valley Railway timetable, as service days vary seasonally.
Bring Cash for Refreshments
Some riverside pubs and tea rooms in Arley may have limited card payment options—carry some cash just in case.
Prepare for Occasional Rapids
While the rapids are mild, beginners should be ready for short bursts of swifter water and adjust paddling accordingly.
Bag Your Trash and Respect Nature
Help preserve the river’s beauty by packing out all litter and avoiding disturbance to wildlife along the banks.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kingfishers
- River otters
History
The Severn Valley Railway, dating from the mid-19th century, connects several historical towns along the river, linking culture with outdoor adventure.
Conservation
River Severn Canoes encourages low-impact visits with ‘leave no trace’ principles to protect the waterway’s delicate ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Birmingham
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Required for safety on the water, especially through the gentle rapids.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps valuables and spare clothes dry during the paddle.
Layered Clothing
Layering allows adjusting warmth as temperatures change throughout the day.
spring specific
Sun Protection (hat & sunscreen)
Essential for long exposure on open water and riverside stops.
summer specific