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2-Hour Stand-up Paddleboard Experience on the River Thames
2-Hour Stand-up Paddleboard Experience on the River Thames
4.9
206 reviews
Explore the scenic Thames in Richmond on a guided stand-up paddleboarding experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, enjoy a fun and relaxed session led by expert instructors.
From €68 / person
No dates available yet
From €68 / person
No dates available yet
Highlights
- Learn to paddleboard with expert, fully qualified instructors
- Enjoy a scenic guided tour of the Thames in Richmond
- Discover hidden spots and beautiful nature along the river
- Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced paddlers
- Capture the moment with photos taken by the instructors
Full description
Embark on a 2-hour stand-up paddleboarding adventure along the most picturesque stretch of the Thames in Richmond. Whether you're new to the sport or an experienced paddler, this session is designed for all skill levels.
Your experience begins near Richmond Bridge, where your instructor will provide a safety briefing and essential land-based training before you hit the water. Once you're ready, paddle out onto the river and explore stunning surroundings, from Ham House and Eel Pie Island to Kew Gardens, depending on the tide.
During the session, you'll learn key paddleboarding techniques, safety tips, and river navigation skills. Along the way, discover secret islands, enjoy close encounters with wildlife, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the Thames. No matter your experience level, our expert instructors ensure that everyone leaves with a smile, and photos to remember the adventure!
A word from your host
Nigel
Hi I'm Nigel and I lead an amazing team of paddleboard and kayak coaches and waterfront staff. We all have an absolute passion for the water, and for teaching people new skills. All our coaches are all fully qualified, with accreditations from British Stand-up Paddleboarding Association (BSUPA), Water Skills Academy (WSA), Paddle UK (formerly British Canoeing) and the Academy of Surfing Instructors (ASI). They also all hold both Paddlesport Safety and Rescue and Outdoor First Aid qualifications.
Know before you go
- You do not need to be a proficient swimmer, but should be comfortable with falling into water while wearing a buoyancy aid
- We run these sessions at "half-tide" when there is almost no river flow at Richmond, making it very safe on the water
- A certain level of flexibility and ability to get up to standing from kneeling is required for learning to paddleboard
- Please arrive wearing the clothes you intend to paddle in
- Children over 14 are welcome if they are accompanied on the water by a parent or legal guardian
- Paddling is usually barefoot, but you can wear water shoes, flip flops or trainers if you'd prefer to wear shoes
- During colder months (November–March), wetsuits are available upon request
- Lockable storage is provided for valuables
- Please note there are no shower facilities at the meeting point
Includes
✔️ Professional instructor and guide
✔️ All paddleboarding equipment
✔️ Wetsuit available on request during winter months
✔️ Lockable storage for valuables
✔️ Safety briefing and introduction to paddleboarding
❌ Transportation to meeting point
❌ Food and drinks
❌ Shower
What to bring
- Comfortable clothing suitable for paddling (shorts, leggings, T-shirt, or fleece)
- A hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle, especially on sunny days
- A towel and a change of clothes just in case you take a dip during the lesson
Cancellation policy
You can cancel up to 48 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Meeting & end points
Meeting point
No 1, Richmond Bridge Arches (next to Tide Tables Café), Richmond-upon-Thames, TW9 1TH
End point
Same location
Customer reviews
Sheena Androliakos
We had an absolutely fantastic time out on the Thames with Paddle Richmond! From start to finish, the experience was smooth, enjoyable, and so memorable. A huge thank you to Nigel, our paddle expert for the day — he was absolutely brilliant! Nigel was incredibly informative and friendly, and it was clear he knew the river like the back of his hand. He shared so much valuable knowledge with us, not just about paddle boarding, but also about water safety and the rules of the river. His calm and confident approach made us feel really safe the entire time. What stood out most was how much confidence we gained from the session. We came away with a much deeper understanding and a real sense of achievement. Whether you’re new to paddle boarding or just want to explore the Thames with expert guidance, I couldn’t recommend Paddle Richmond more highly. We’ll definitely be back!
Vuki Popovic
I had an incredible experience learning practical kayaking for rescuing wildlife with Peter from Paddle Richmond. Paddle Richmond prepared a bespoke 1:1 course for me. Peter, was brilliant in the way he explained things, demonstrated techniques, I had never done anything like this before and it felt so worthwhile. I could not praise him more highly and I'm eager to practice my kayaking with them again more regularly when the warmer season begins!
Raed
Nigel and Harry made it an unforgettable experience, they made sure we were good and ready before heading out. The equipment is top-notch, and the views along the Thames are amazing. It's such a peaceful and fun way to enjoy nature and get some exercise. Perfect for a day with friends. Highly recommend and can't wait to go back.
Mei Y Giam
Nigel and Peter are excellent instructors. Peter took me out the second time. He was so kind, went over and beyond to see that I would paddle comfortably on a faster board. I highly recommend this company for paddle boarding for beginners and improvers.
Sarah Pick
We had a fantastic morning paddle boarding with Nigel! It was super fun and informative session - we learnt a lot about paddle boarding and Richmond, too. Hope to book again soon :)