Spine-Chilling Night Paddle on the River Nene: Experience Halloween by Natural Light
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness with previous paddling skills; ability to handle balance in near-darkness required.
Overview
Experience the River Nene under the cloak of night with a spooky Halloween paddle guided only by natural light and eerie glow sticks. Join seasoned paddlers for this unique ghostly water adventure near Thrapston.
Night Paddle in the dark: Paddling only by natural light on the River Nene
Paddle In The Dark • Night Paddle • 16+ only
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About This Adventure
Experience a spine-chilling Halloween night paddle on the River Nene, where the veil between worlds thins. Glide through dark waters, surrounded by ghostly shadows and the haunting sounds of nature. Join fellow paddlers for a thrilling evening of spooky stories and eerie ambiance, all under the watchful eye of experienced guides.
Get ready for a memorable evening on the water under the stars! 🌙
Whether you're a confident paddler or someone with a bit of experience, this night-time paddle is your chance to explore the River Nene in a whole new light — or rather, in near-total darkness.
Let the gentle ripple of the river, the calls of nocturnal wildlife, and the glow of your board guide you on this peaceful yet thrilling journey after dusk.
Event Details:
Join us for an atmospheric paddle after dark and experience the river as few ever do — with only the sounds of the natural world and soft glow from other boards to accompany you. Keep an ear out for owls, the flutter of bats overhead, and the occasional splash of unseen wildlife.
Our experienced WHATSUP Training team will be on hand throughout to provide safety cover, support, and guidance as you navigate the still, inky waters of the River Nene.
🕒 The paddle will last between 2 to 3 hours, depending on group dynamics and river conditions.
What’s Included:
Paddle support from qualified WHATSUP Training Coaches and Instructors
On-water safety cover for your peace of mind
Leadership for night-time paddling and help accessing the river
High-quality chemical glow sticks to mark your board for visibility and to help avoid those accidental bumps in the dark
What’s Not Included:
Clothing such as wetsuits or drysuits
Food or drink unless otherwise stated
Itinerary:
📍 Meet at the Nine Arches, Thrapston
Registration, safety briefing, and instructions on how to safely join and exit the river
Once on the water, enjoy a steady-paced group paddle through tranquil, darkened surroundings
Take in the ambient sounds — owls calling, reeds rustling, bats darting overhead — and the peaceful rhythm of paddling in near silence
This is a social yet reflective experience, with time to connect, observe, and take in the unique sensation of being on the river after sunset.
Important Information:
Due to seasonal conditions, this event is weather and river flow dependent. ✅ A safety assessments will be carried out 24hrs, 6hrs and Final Safety assessment 1 hour before the event. ❌ If conditions are unsuitable, the paddle will be cancelled and a full refund issued. WHATSUP Training staff may cancel or abort the activity at anytime if a matter of safety arises.
Ready to discover the river by night?
Let the dark guide your senses. Paddle with confidence, curiosity, and care — and experience the River Nene in a new way.
Adventure Tips
Bring Your Own Paddleboard
Participants must supply their own board or rent from the operator to ensure safety and familiarity on the water.
Arrive Early for Safety Briefing
Plan extra time to set up your equipment and attend the safety briefing conducted in darkness for eye adjustment.
Dress for Cold Night River Conditions
Wear warm, layered clothing that allows movement and dries quickly if splashed or fallen into the water.
Costumes Must Not Hinder Safety Gear
Costumes are encouraged but must not restrict buoyancy aids or paddling ability to keep everyone safe.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Barn owls hunting over the water
- Common pipistrelle bats fluttering at night
History
The River Nene has been a crucial trade and transport route for centuries, its waters steeped in local folklore of spirits and nighttime mysteries.
Conservation
WHATSUP Training prioritizes minimal environmental impact by encouraging participants to respect the river ecosystem and avoid disturbing wildlife at night.
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Adventure Hotspots in Thrapston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Paddleboard
Essential for safely navigating the river at night.
Buoyancy Aid
Required personal flotation device for safety during the event.
Warm Layered Clothing
Keeps paddlers warm against chilling night air and potential splashes.
fall specific
Towel and Change of Clothes
Helpful for drying off and warming up after the paddle, since no changing facilities are available.