Discover the joy of paddleboarding with a beginner-friendly session in Thrapston. Learn essential skills, safety tips, and earn your PaddleUK Start Award—all in a scenic, welcoming environment.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior experience needed.
Wildlife
History
Thrapston’s waterways have historically supported local trade and industry, with the River Nene playing a pivotal role in the area's development.
Conservation
WHATSUP Training emphasizes environmentally responsible paddling, encouraging participants to minimize their ecological footprint and respect local habitats.
WHATSUP Training
Discover the joy of paddleboarding with a beginner-friendly session in Thrapston. Learn essential skills, safety tips, and earn your PaddleUK Start Award—all in a scenic, welcoming environment.
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.
Check weather conditions
Always review the weather forecast before heading out to ensure safe paddling conditions.
Wear appropriate clothing
Opt for quick-drying, water-resistant clothing to stay comfortable during the session.
Arrive early
Getting to the venue early allows time for equipment fitting and safety briefings.
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, to keep energized while paddling.
Waterproof clothing
Keeps you dry and comfortable throughout the session.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sun protection
Protection from sun exposure during warmer months.
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Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during your paddling adventure.
Secure footwear
Closed-toe water shoes or sneakers for stability and comfort.