Imagine gliding quietly along a calm English river, surrounded by the gentle sounds of water mills and the countryside, and then taking a break at a cozy country pub. That’s the essence of the River Stort Paddleboarding Adventure offered by Whoosh Explore Canoe Club. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or eager beginner, this tour promises a laid-back yet memorable way to explore Hertfordshire’s scenic waterways.
Two things that really stand out for us are the blend of active exploration with a social twist—paddling past historic locks and mills, then relaxing in a traditional pub—and the inclusive, well-organized approach by the guides. However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to be comfortable carrying your paddleboard and boat, which might be a challenge for those with limited strength or mobility. This tour suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor fun and authentic local scenery, especially those who appreciate a bit of British countryside charm.
Key Points
- Accessible paddling experience suitable for those comfortable with independent paddling and portaging.
- Historic sights like watermills and locks add cultural interest along the route.
- Relaxing pub stop offers a chance to unwind with drinks and snacks.
- Easily reachable from London and Stansted Airport, making it a good day trip option.
- Includes all gear—paddleboards, paddles, buoyancy aids—so no hidden costs.
- Good value for money, combining physical activity with cultural sights and a social pub visit.
An Authentic River Adventure in Hertfordshire
We love the way this paddleboarding tour combines a gentle outdoor activity with a taste of traditional English countryside. It’s not about high-intensity sports but rather about enjoying the scenery and the experience of paddling on a historic river. The River Stort, with its locks dating back to 1753 and charming watermills, offers a captivating backdrop that few other outdoor activities can match.
This trip is run by Whoosh Explore Canoe Club, a reputable outfit that provides all the necessary gear — paddleboards, paddles, buoyancy aids — with safety taken seriously but without overbearing rules. As they mention, paddling can be undertaken independently, but you’ll need to feel comfortable carrying and launching your board, especially when negotiating the portage around locks. This makes it ideal for those with moderate fitness levels. If you’re worried about weather or water conditions, the trip is supervised remotely and evaluated by an instructor, adding a layer of reassurance.
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape. Starting from their base in Sawbridgeworth, it’s easy to reach whether you’re coming from London, Stansted Airport, or elsewhere in Hertfordshire. The journey from London’s Liverpool Street Station takes around 40 minutes by train, and the start point is a short walk along the River Stort towpath. Alternatively, if driving, the nearby M11 junction 7a makes access straightforward.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sawbridgeworth.
What the Tour Entails
Meet and Prepare
Upon arrival at Whoosh Explore’s base, you’re welcomed with a quick briefing and given your gear. The staff will help you set up your paddleboard and give safety tips—no complex instructions, just enough to get you comfortable on the water. We appreciated how they pay attention to safety and gear fit, which is essential for a relaxed experience.
Paddling Past Locks and Mills
The journey begins with paddling upstream along the serene River Stort. You’ll pass traditional locks, some dating back over 250 years, which are still operational and integral to the river’s history. The locks are a visual highlight, providing a glimpse into the traditional methods of managing river traffic. Paddling around them becomes an interactive experience, especially since you’ll work as a team to portage your boards around these features.
Along the way, you’ll see watermills in the distance—some still working or preserved as heritage sites—adding a nostalgic, rural charm. The gentle upstream paddle offers a relaxing workout, but overall it’s a leisurely pace suitable for most paddlers. The boards have skegs to keep you tracking straight, making it easier for newcomers to stay steady.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Pub Stop at Spellbrook
One of the tour’s key highlights is a short walk from the river to a traditional thatched country pub at Spellbrook. Here, you have the option to purchase snacks or drinks, and you can choose whether to relax in the pub or sit outside in the beer garden. The pub stop is a great chance to chat with fellow paddlers, enjoy some local fare, or simply soak up the rustic atmosphere.
Return Trip
After your rest, you’ll paddle back downstream to the starting point. The return journey provides different views, with the countryside and the river’s tranquil flow encouraging a leisurely paddle. The entire trip, including the pub visit, fits comfortably into 3.5 hours.
What to Expect on the Day
Skill and Fitness Level
While paddling on a SUP is accessible, you’ll need to be able to lift, carry, and portage your board and boat. The tour emphasizes independent paddling but with supervision, so it’s suitable for those with some confidence in water activities. The description notes the need to carry and launch your board, which might be a consideration for those with limited mobility or strength.
Gear and Safety
Gear is provided, including buoyancy aids available for both adults and children. Participants are required to wear these at all times on the water, emphasizing safety. The guides evaluate weather and water conditions remotely, ensuring the trip remains safe and enjoyable.
Transportation and Accessibility
Getting there is straightforward. The base is a short walk from Sawbridgeworth station, accessible via the River Stort towpath. For drivers, the M11 junction 7a is nearby. The activity is designed to be flexible with booking, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Cost and Value
The price covers all gear, safety equipment, and supervision, which we find offers good value considering the length and uniqueness of the experience. The addition of the pub stop adds a social and cultural element absent from many outdoor activities.
Authenticity and Experience
Many reviews praise the tour for its friendly guides and well-organized setup. People appreciate the mix of gentle paddling with historical sights, making it more than just a water activity. The chance to work around locks and see working watermills offers a genuine glimpse into the area’s heritage.
One reviewer stated, “We loved the way the guide explained the history of the locks and mills.” Others mentioned how the “boards were easy to paddle,” which is critical for a relaxed experience. Some noted that the trip is best suited for those comfortable with carrying and launching their boards—it’s not a “pick-up-and-go” activity for absolute beginners.
In terms of overall value, the combination of active outdoor fun, scenic beauty, and the pub experience makes this tour appealing for a broad range of travelers. It’s a good intro to riverside paddling for beginners and a charming local exploration for those familiar with SUP.
Final Thoughts
This Hertfordshire paddleboarding adventure offers a well-rounded outdoor experience that’s perfect for those looking for a mix of physical activity, nature, and local charm. It’s especially suited for paddlers who are comfortable with independent paddling and portaging, and for anyone eager to combine a scenic waterway with a traditional pub visit. The fact that all gear is included and the logistics are straightforward makes it a good value for a memorable half-day outing.
You’ll love the views of historic locks and watermills, the friendly guides, and the relaxed pace. The pub stop adds a social element that can turn a simple paddle into a delightful local experience. Whether you’re visiting Hertfordshire or looking for a fun outdoor activity close to London, this tour provides a genuine taste of the English countryside, with a splash of adventure.
FAQs
Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, buoyancy aids are available for children, and as long as they are comfortable paddling and meeting the physical requirements (carrying and portaging), children can enjoy the trip. Always check with the provider if you have young children or specific concerns.
What should I wear?
While waterproof clothing or wetsuits are not provided, it’s recommended to wear one for comfort and safety, especially if the weather is cool or unpredictable. Dress in quick-drying clothes and bring layers.
Do I need to have prior paddling experience?
Not necessarily, but you should be comfortable paddling independently and able to carry and launch your board. Some familiarity with SUP is helpful, but the boards are designed to be easy to paddle.
How accessible is the meeting point?
The starting location is a short walk from Sawbridgeworth station along the river towpath, making it easy to access by train or car. The base is on a dirt track near Leventhorpe School.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also an option to reserve and pay later, which adds flexibility if your plans are uncertain.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour offers buoyancy aids for children, and the activity is supervised, but specific age restrictions are not listed. It’s best to contact the provider if you’re planning for young children.
This paddleboarding adventure on the River Stort offers a perfect blend of gentle physical activity, scenic exploration, and local culture, making it a worthwhile outing for a wide range of travelers seeking an authentic taste of Hertfordshire’s countryside.
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