Is kit hire available on-site?

No, all participants must bring their own equipment including kayak, helmet, and buoyancy aid.

What age is this activity suitable for?

The course is open to paddlers aged 12 and older; under 16s must have a parent or guardian present.

Are there changing rooms and showers?

Yes, Pinkston Watersports offers changing facilities with hot showers onsite.

How cold is the water throughout the year?

Water temperature varies and can be quite cold especially in winter; appropriate thermal protection is necessary.

Is parking available at Pinkston?

Free parking is provided onsite with additional street parking nearby.

What is the competency test requirement?

First-time paddlers or those returning after a break must complete a short skills assessment to ensure safety on the course.

Whitewater Paddle Thrills at Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow | Canoe | Water Activities

Located just north of Glasgow’s city center, Pinkston Watersports commands attention as the site of Scotland’s only artificial whitewater course. This innovative facility transforms an urban setting into a dynamic playground for paddlers seeking to sharpen their craft on Grade 2/3 rapids. The Whitewater Park and Play experience invites kayakers aged 12 and above to engage with a course designed for skill development and confidence-building in safe, controlled waters.

The course itself offers a rich variety of river features—from sculpted waves and eddy lines to technical drops—that challenge and refine whitewater techniques. Unlike unpredictable wild rivers, Pinkston’s environment provides consistency for practicing maneuvers and reading river flow without the inherent risks of natural whitewater. Given its location within Glasgow’s industrial landscape, the venue blends engineered water dynamics with the gritty backdrop of Scotland’s urban heritage.

A mandatory competency test ensures participants are aptly prepared, maintaining a secure setting for all skill levels within the self-led format. This makes Pinkston an invaluable hub for novice paddlers stepping up their game and for experienced kayakers seeking reliable training grounds close to the city. The site’s accessibility and free parking enhance its appeal for locals and visitors alike.

Pinkston Watersports stands out as more than a whitewater course—it’s a community cornerstone fostering outdoor adventure sport in Scotland’s biggest city. Families and individuals are supported with changing facilities and expert guidance, emphasizing safety and personal growth. For those aiming to progress in whitewater kayaking or simply craving adrenaline near Glasgow, Pinkston represents a unique combination of engineered challenge and urban accessibility.

About Pinkston Watersports

Pinkston Watersports is a Glasgow-based watersports centre operating on Scotland's only artificial whitewater course. The centre runs a wide range of paddlesports and water activities including whitewater tubing, whitewater kayaking taster and progression courses, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) tasters, rolling clinics, swim sessions, and family splash zones. Sessions are offered for different ages and abilities, with many junior and family activities listed for ages 7 and up and several whitewater sessions suitable for ages 12 and up. Birthday party packages, holiday activity camps, student nights, and specialist sessions such as cold water swims with sauna access are also available.

Professional instructors lead coached sessions and safety briefings, and several beginner courses state that equipment is provided; participants are often asked to bring a towel and suitable footwear. Progression courses include multi-week formats for beginners and intermediate paddlers, plus club-style monthly sessions focused on skill development and themed activities. The venue supports learning across flat-water and artificial whitewater environments and hosts community and family-focused events. Pinkston Watersports emphasises safe, supervised access to paddlesports for newcomers and developing paddlers, delivers structured coaching, and provides a versatile programme of activities suitable for families, youth groups, adults, and students in Glasgow and the surrounding area.

Booking options include single-session tasters, multi-week progression courses, club membership and group or family packages for birthday parties and holiday camps. Sessions run across seasons and include student nights. The programme supports skill progression, confidence on the water and repeat visits to develop technique. Suitable for beginners and families.