If you’re looking for a way to combine outdoor adventure with a touch of local charm, the Hertfordshire River Stort Paddleboarding Adventure offered by Whoosh Explore Canoe Club might be just what you need. This 3.5-hour trip takes you along tranquil stretches of the River Stort, paddling past historic locks, traditional watermills, and ending at a cozy country pub. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy some time on the water without the intensity of a full-day trip, with a relaxed pace and plenty of scenic moments.
What I really like about this experience is how accessible it is for a range of paddlers. The paddleboards are described as “easy to paddle” with skegs that keep you tracking straight — perfect for beginners or those who prefer a laid-back float. Also, the opportunity to portage around the locks with team effort adds a layer of hands-on fun, giving you a real connection to the history of the river. Plus, the visit to a thatched country pub is a charming finish, offering a well-earned break and local refreshments.
One potential consideration is that you need to be comfortable with lifting, carrying, and launching your own paddleboard, as well as managing independent paddling on the water. There’s a requirement to be reasonably fit, particularly to carry and portage the gear around locks. This can be a barrier for some, but for most active travelers, it’s part of the authentic adventure.
In all, this paddleboarding trip balances scenic beauty, gentle physical activity, and cultural charm. It offers a unique way to explore Hertfordshire’s countryside from a perspective that’s both relaxing and engaging, making it ideal for groups, families, or solo travelers craving a slice of outdoor fun with a local flavor.
Key points / Takeaways
- Accessible paddleboards: Designed for easy paddling, suitable for beginners.
- Historical highlights: Pass traditional locks from 1753 and view historic watermills.
- Team effort at locks: Portaging around locks adds a cooperative, hands-on element.
- Charming pub visit: End the trip with a walk to a traditional thatched country pub.
- Location convenience: Easy to reach from London and Stansted Airport, with train and car options.
- Physical requirement: Participants should be able to carry and launch their gear, which suits active travelers but may challenge some.
Exploring Hertfordshire’s River Stort: A Practical Guide
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sawbridgeworth.
Starting Point and Logistics
The adventure begins at the Whoosh Explore Canoe Club, located on Cambridge Road in Sawbridgeworth. The meeting point is a dirt track near Leventhorpe School, leading down to the river. For travelers arriving by train, it’s a short walk along the river towpath from Sawbridgeworth station — a practical choice for those coming from London or Bishops Stortford. If you’re driving, the nearby M11 junction 7a offers easy access, and the location is close enough for a day trip from the capital or the Stansted Airport area.
The trip lasts about 3.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. It’s worth checking the schedule beforehand to coordinate with your plans. You’ll receive all necessary gear — paddleboards, paddles, and buoyancy aids — as part of the package, so there’s no need to bring your own equipment unless you prefer. They emphasize that buoyancy aids are mandatory, which is reassuring for safety-conscious travelers.
The Itinerary in Detail
The paddleboarding adventure kicks off with a short carry of your boat from the storage area to the water’s edge. Once afloat, the instructor provides guidance on paddling techniques and safety. With the ease of the paddleboards, you’ll quickly find yourself drifting along the peaceful waters, surrounded by Hertfordshire’s countryside.
The first highlight is paddling upstream to Tednamebury Lock, a system that’s been part of the river since 1753. As you approach the lock, you’ll notice the traditional design that’s still in use today. The trip involves working as a team to portage your boats around the lock — a fun, cooperative effort that adds a sense of shared achievement. Several reviews praise the trip for the “hands-on” feel, with one noting that the “portage around locks makes it a real mini adventure,” offering a break from pure paddling and a taste of river history.
Beyond the locks, you’ll enjoy views of historic watermills in the distance, adding a nostalgic charm to the experience. The paddling continues upstream to Spellbrook, where the trip pauses at a traditional thatched country pub. This short walk from the river makes for a delightful break, whether you want to relax in the pub’s cozy interior or sit in the beer garden enjoying the fresh air. While drinks and snacks aren’t included, the pub offers the option to purchase refreshments — a good chance to sample local fare or just unwind with a cold drink.
On the way back, you’ll paddle downstream, completing the loop in a comfortable, unrushed manner. The entire trip is designed to balance activity with leisure, making it appealing to a broad audience, from casual paddlers to those interested in a bit of local history.
What to Wear and Bring
While paddling equipment is provided, it’s recommended to wear a wetsuit — especially if the weather is cool or unpredictable. The guides do not supply waterproof clothing or wetsuits, so bringing your own or wearing suitable attire is wise. Since you will need to carry and launch your own boat, being reasonably fit is important. This isn’t a leisurely float for those who dislike physical exertion, but most active individuals will find it manageable and rewarding.
The Experience of the Guides
Reviews mention that the trip is supervised remotely but overseen by an instructor, which means you’ll have guidance if needed without feeling overly restricted. You’ll appreciate the instructor’s emphasis on safety and water conditions, helping you feel confident even if you’re new to paddleboarding. Some reviews praise the friendly, approachable staff, noting that they “made everyone feel at ease,” and provided helpful tips for a smoother experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This adventure is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor physical activity, scenic countryside, and a bit of historical context. It’s especially suited for groups of friends, families with older children, or solo travelers eager to meet like-minded paddlers. The trip’s moderate physical demands mean it’s not for everyone — you should be able to carry your gear and paddle independently.
If you’re after a focused, adrenaline-fueled water sport experience, this might not be your best choice. But if you want a relaxed, scenic outing with an authentic local touch, this paddleboarding trip hits the mark. It offers excellent value for money, combining gentle exercise, cultural sights, and a lovely pub visit into one smooth 3.5-hour package.
Price and Overall Value
Considering everything included — paddleboards, safety gear, guidance, and a scenic pub stop — this trip is a good value for the experience offered. It’s not a high-cost activity, but it delivers a memorable and authentic way to see part of Hertfordshire from the water. The small group size and personalized attention from the guides add to the overall value, making it feel like a bespoke adventure rather than a mass-tour operation.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This paddleboarding adventure is best suited for active travelers who want a leisurely but engaging way to experience Hertfordshire’s countryside. It’s perfect for those comfortable with light physical activity, including lifting and carrying gear, and who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and social fun. Families with older children or groups of friends will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they’re curious about local locks and mills.
It’s also a great option for travelers staying near London or Stansted Airport who want a quick escape into rural England without sacrificing convenience. The trip’s flexible booking and cancellation policy make it easy to plan around unpredictable weather or changing schedules.
FAQ
What do I need to bring? You should wear appropriate clothing, ideally a wetsuit, and be prepared for physical activity, including carrying and launching your paddleboard. Waterproof clothing isn’t provided, so bring your own if needed.
Is it suitable for beginners? Yes, the paddleboards are designed to be easy to paddle, and the guides provide safety and paddling guidance. However, you should be comfortable paddling independently and physically able to carry gear.
How far do we paddle? The route covers upstream to Tednamebury Lock and downstream back to the start, with stops at the pub and the locks. Exact distances aren’t specified, but the focus is on a relaxed pace rather than endurance.
Are children allowed? Buoyancy aids are available for children, and the trip is supervised with safety in mind. Check with the provider for age restrictions and suitability.
Can I join if I don’t have any paddling experience? Absolutely — the equipment is beginner-friendly, and guidance is provided. The trip is designed to be accessible for novices.
What’s the best way to get there? The starting point is easily reachable from London via train to Sawbridgeworth station or by car via the M11. The location is a short walk from the station.
Are food and drinks included? No, refreshments at the pub are optional and not included in the price. You may purchase snacks or drinks after the paddling.
Is there a cancellation policy? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
To sum it up, if you’re after a relaxing yet engaging way to enjoy Hertfordshire’s natural beauty and historical charm, this paddleboarding adventure offers a terrific value. It combines outdoor activity, scenic views, and a cozy pub visit into a well-rounded experience. Perfect for active travelers seeking an authentic slice of English countryside with a splash of adventure, this trip is sure to leave you with good memories and maybe a newfound paddling skill.