Canoeing
Canoeists can travel the whole length of the river, from Brundon Mill to Cattawade.
Throughout the journey of the river the characteristics do vary so it's worth bearing this is mind if you are a novice paddler. Although mainly a shallow river and good for beginners there are patches of deep water and you will come across several water control structures.
How do I get started?
First of all, you must be able to swim. If you can swim, the best way to get started in canoeing is to join a club. Visit the British Canoe Union website for a list of clubs.
How much does it cost?
You need to register your canoe to paddle on the River Stour. However if you're a member of the British Canoe Union then this will cover you.
Club subscriptions vary greatly - some charge less than £10 a year while more specialised clubs will charge in the region of £60 a year.
Many clubs and companies offer hire canoes of different types, starting at around £30 a day, inclusive of licence, paddle and other equipment. If you want to buy your own canoe there is a wide range available starting at about £300. You will also need a paddle (from £30), buoyancy aid (from £35), and possibly a spraydeck (from £25).
Can I get lessons?
Some clubs provide basic training free of charge but other clubs may charge around £20 per hour, one to one. Group training is cheaper.
Can I do this as a family?
Canoeing is a great family activity. Many clubs cater for families and you can choose from single, two and generally up to four-seater canoes and kayaks.
Can I canoe if I have a disability?
There are canoe clubs based along the Stour and some cater for people with disabilities. The British Canoe Union has more details and provides a list of suitable clubs.
I already have a boat - can I just go out on my own?
If you own a canoe, you can take it anywhere on the River Stour Navigation once you have registered it with the Environment Agency. You can buy a licence by calling our Craft Registration team on 08708 506 506. For further information visit the Registering your boat page.
What are the golden rules of canoeing?
- Don't canoe if you can't swim.
- Don'ttry to correcta capsized canoe. Hang onto it until you are safely at the riverbank.
- Don't put more people in a canoe than it is designed to carry.
- Don't change places in a canoe.
- Don't go out alone - three canoes are a safe minimum.
- Do keep away from weirs.
- Do ask about local conditions - tides, currents and weather conditions.
- Don't have slack decklines.
- Don't wear Wellington boots or heavy clothes.
- Keep well clear of other water users.
- Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be.