Discover Bath’s iconic sights from the water with a 4.5-hour guided paddle along the River Avon. Enjoy stunning views, expert guidance, and a riverside lunch in this memorable outdoor adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with instruction available
Wildlife
History
The River Avon has been a vital part of Bath’s history since Roman times, shaping both its culture and its landscape.
Conservation
Discover Paddling practices environmentally friendly paddling techniques and supports local river conservation efforts.
Discover Paddling
Discover Bath’s iconic sights from the water with a 4.5-hour guided paddle along the River Avon. Enjoy stunning views, expert guidance, and a riverside lunch in this memorable outdoor adventure.
Discover Paddling, based in Gloucester, England, runs paddleboard and kayaking experiences across the Cotswolds, River Avon and River Wye. The company offers a mix of short taster sessions, full-day progression courses, family-friendly sessions, private group hires and longer guided river trips. Popular locations include Saul Junction, the Cotswold canal network, Bath city stretches of the River Avon, and a 12-mile River Wye route.
Sessions range from 1.5-hour paddleboard introductions and family sessions to a 4.5-hour Bath City Sights paddle and the full-day River Wye Wonders. Progressive courses teach efficient paddling, bracing, turning and safety over one or two sessions, while Paddle Safer focuses on rescue techniques, equipment selection and environmental awareness.
Instructors are described as friendly, passionate and qualified, providing small-group tuition and tailored coaching. No prior experience is required for taster and family sessions; intermediate courses are designed for paddlers moving to confident levels. Private group bookings accommodate families, friends and celebrations with optional games and on-water challenges.
Discover Paddling supplies equipment for its sessions and plans routes that finish near cafés and pubs such as Bathampton Mill, making trips convenient for refreshment. River Wye Wonders includes provided snacks and a picnic lunch on the riverbank, while Bath City Sights includes lunch by Pulteney Weir and a finish at a pub. Group sizes are small on progression courses to ensure personalised feedback and supervision. The operator emphasizes safety, environmental respect and progressive skill-building. Customers can expect guided experiences that balance learning, scenic exploration and social time on the water.
Base
Gloucester, England
Gateway to Cotswold canals and rivers
Family-friendly
Yes
Sessions for all ages
Session Lengths
1.5–12 hours
Short tasters to full-day trips
Guides & Coaches
Qualified instructors
Friendly, experienced staff
Secure a spot on a family session, progression course or guided river trip — equipment and expert instruction included.
Wear sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable paddle.
Dress in layers
Weather can change quickly; layer your clothing for comfort.
Stay hydrated
Carry water to stay refreshed during the paddle.
Arrive early
Get there 15 minutes before your scheduled start for a smooth launch.
Quick-drying clothing
spring
Sunscreen
summer
Waterproof jacket
fall/winter
Secure water bottle