Join the fun at Kingston's social paddleboarding sessions on the Thames, where community meets water. Discover why this activity stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning river views. Keep reading for details!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners and casual paddlers.
Wildlife
History
Kingston has a rich maritime history, once serving as a key crossing point on the Thames since medieval times.
Conservation
The business supports local conservation efforts by promoting eco-friendly practices and educating participants about river ecosystems.
Dittons Paddle Boarding - Club
Join the fun at Kingston's social paddleboarding sessions on the Thames, where community meets water. Discover why this activity stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning river views. Keep reading for details!
Dittons Paddle Boarding - Club runs paddle boarding sessions, socials, hires and multi-day trips across the River Thames, River Medway and local canals. The club offers 1.5-hour Beginner and Improver sessions by Hampton Court designed for newcomers and developing paddlers; the Beginner Session explicitly includes launching, paddling and self-rescue instruction from a qualified coach. Participants may bring their own board or use hire equipment where available.
Social paddles meet regularly in Thames Ditton (launching from The Albany Pub), Kingston and Weybridge with two-hour evening routes and a Sunday afternoon peer social for competent paddlers. The club also organises themed and charity events — including the Pink Paddle on the Basingstoke Canal supporting Cancer Research UK, a Halloween Paddle and Party, and a Santa SUP in Guildford. Multi-day and specialist trips include the River Medway Weekend with camping options and several canal and river safaris (for example River Brent & Grand Union Canal, Stort Navigation, and the Limehouse Loop including the Olympic Park).
Paddleboard hire is available near Hampton Court Palace with flexible rental durations and opportunities to explore islands, beaches and waterside pubs. Safety and community are central: sessions teach rescue techniques and turning strokes, socials encourage shared routes and group decision-making, and weekend trips combine camping with guided paddling. All descriptions are factual representations of the club’s published sessions, events and hire offerings.
Rivers Covered
Thames & Medway
Paddles across local waterways
Session Types
Beginner & Improver
1.5‑hour coached sessions
Social Paddles
4 regular socials
Evening and Sunday meetups
Special Events
Pink, Halloween, Santa
Charity and festive paddles
Reserve beginner coaching, improver training, paddleboard hire or a spot on a weekend trip — spaces fill fast for themed and seasonal events.
Wear BYO or rental gear
Bringing your own gear saves time, but rentals are available on-site for convenience.
Check weather conditions
Calm, sunny days make for the best paddleboarding experiences — avoid windy or rainy weather.
Arrive early
Getting there at least 15 minutes before your session helps with check-in and gear setup.
Bring water and sun protection
Stay hydrated and protect yourself with sunscreen and hats, especially on warm days.
Sunscreen
Helps prevent sunburn during long hours on the water.
summer
Waterproof bag
Keeps your belongings dry and secure while paddling.
Hat and sunglasses
Provides sun protection for face and eyes.
summer
Water shoes or sandals
Offers comfort and grip on paddleboards and docks.