Introduction: Paddling on the Thames with Paddle Richmond
Imagine gliding quietly along the beautiful stretch of the Thames in Teddington, surrounded by lush riverbanks and historic sights. The paddleboard experience offered by Paddle Richmond is designed for those who want a relaxed, fun introduction to stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) without needing prior experience. This 2-hour session promises a friendly atmosphere, expert guidance, and stunning river views that make the effort well worth it.
Two things I really like about this experience are the small group setting, which ensures personalized attention, and the professional, approachable instructors who keep safety and fun at the forefront. Plus, the fact that you get to paddle towards charming places like Eel Pie Island and Richmond adds a scenic touch.
On the flip side, a possible consideration is that conditions on the day, like wind or tide, can influence how far you paddle—so if you’re aiming for a specific route or distance, keep in mind that natural factors play a role. But with flexible options and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll still enjoy a memorable outing.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Ideal for Beginners: No prior paddleboarding experience needed, just comfort with water activities and being able to get up from kneeling.
- Expert Guidance: Fully qualified instructors like Sophie and others lead the group, providing individual tips and safety instructions.
- Scenic Thames Views: Paddle along one of the most beautiful parts of the river, with views of Eel Pie Island, Richmond, and Kingston.
- Small Group Experience: Typically limited to a small group for personalized coaching and safety.
- Flexible & Accessible: Open to paddlers of all abilities, with a focus on safety, fun, and confidence-building.
- Weather and Conditions: The route and distance depend on the day’s wind and tide, making each trip slightly unique.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Teddington.
Discovering Teddington’s Paddleboard Adventure
Starting in Teddington, this paddleboard experience provides a fantastic way to see the Thames from a fresh perspective. The meeting point is conveniently located at the bottom of The Anglers’ beer garden—easy to find via pub entrance or from Ferry Road. This close proximity to the pub makes it simple to combine a river adventure with a relaxing visit afterward.
The session kicks off with a 15 to 20-minute safety briefing and land-based training. Your instructor will introduce you to the paddleboard gear, including how to handle the paddle and stay safe on the water. Expect to learn techniques like steering, stopping, and self-rescue—skills that boost your confidence quickly. Even if you’re new to paddleboarding, most participants find themselves standing and paddling confidently in no time.
After the briefing, the group heads out onto the river. The typical route heads downstream towards Eel Pie Island and Richmond, with occasionally an upstream trip towards Kingston depending on weather conditions. The actual distance covered varies based on wind and tide, which keeps the experience dynamic and engaging.
One of the things I appreciate is how the instructor, often Sophie, makes safety and technique simple and approachable. Fiona, a recent participant, mentioned, “We all got to stand up and none of us fell in, and we even did some SUP yoga.” That kind of fun and relaxation is what makes this experience memorable.
As you paddle, you’ll experience the peaceful, scenic environment of the Thames. The views of Richmond’s historic buildings and the chance to spot local wildlife make this more than just a workout—it’s a quiet escape into nature right in Greater London.
What’s Included and What You Need to Know
The price covers the paddleboard experience, equipment, and guidance from a qualified instructor, making it a straightforward package. You won’t need to worry about bringing your own gear, which lowers both cost and hassle. However, food, drinks, and transportation aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want a picnic or to visit local cafes afterward.
Participants should bring weather-appropriate clothing, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Shower facilities are not available at Teddington, so if you get splashed or fall in, a thorough wash afterwards is recommended. The activity is suitable for paddlers of all abilities, but you should be comfortable getting up from kneeling and wearing a buoyancy aid, as falling into water is expected at some point.
Important: The ability to get up to standing from kneeling is required for learning to paddleboard, and recent injuries should be disclosed beforehand to ensure safety.
The Experience in Practice: What You’ll Actually Do
The 2-hour session is thoughtfully structured. Initially, your instructor will focus on safety and technique on land—this is crucial for building confidence on the water. Once you’re comfortable, you’ll paddle out into the river, most likely downstream. The route toward Eel Pie Island and Richmond is especially popular because of the beautiful views and the laid-back atmosphere.
The actual distance covered depends on the tide and wind. Because of this, each trip is slightly different—sometimes you might paddle a bit further, sometimes a shorter route. This variability is part of what makes each outing unique.
Guides like Sophie excel at making you feel at ease—they’ll give individual tips, correct your posture if needed, and ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience. Fiona’s review captures this well, noting that everyone “got to stand up,” and she even mentions trying SUP yoga—adding a fun, relaxed element to the activity.
The small group setting, typically with a handful of paddlers, fosters a friendly environment where questions are encouraged, and safety is prioritized. After the paddle, you’ll return to the starting point, often feeling a sense of achievement and relaxation.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This paddleboard session is perfect for beginners and casual paddlers who want to enjoy the Thames in a laid-back setting. It’s also suitable for families, friends, or solo travelers looking for an outdoor activity that combines gentle exercise with scenic views. If you’re curious about paddleboarding but not ready for a full day trip or advanced course, this is an excellent choice.
It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy small groups, personalized instruction, and a relaxed pace. The focus on safety and beginner-friendly techniques makes it accessible—even for those who have never been on a paddleboard before.
However, if you’re looking for a long, challenging paddling adventure or detailed technical instruction, this experience might feel a bit limited. Still, for a fun, scenic introduction to paddleboarding on the Thames, it hits the right notes.
Price and Logistics: Is It Good Value?
For about two hours of guided paddleboarding with all equipment provided, the cost is reasonable, especially considering the quality of instruction. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention, which adds to the overall value. The flexibility to reserve without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind if your plans are uncertain.
Transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point yourself, but the location is straightforward to access from local transport links. Remember to wear weather-appropriate clothes and bring essentials like sunscreen and a towel.
The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Paddleboard Experience?
This paddleboard trip in Teddington is ideal for beginners, families, and outdoor lovers wanting a relaxed, scenic introduction to paddleboarding. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the Thames without needing prior experience or equipment of your own. The knowledgeable guides, especially Sophie, and the stunning views make for a memorable outing—one that balances fun with safety.
If you’re seeking a gentle adventure that offers a taste of water sports amid beautiful surroundings, this experience provides fantastic value. Just be prepared for variable conditions and bring along your sense of adventure—and perhaps a towel to dry off afterward.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the session is designed for all abilities, including beginners. The instructor will teach you the basics, and most people find themselves standing and paddling confidently within the session.
Do I need to know how to swim?
You don’t need to be a proficient swimmer, but you should be comfortable with falling into water while wearing a buoyancy aid. Safety instructions are provided, and the instructor is always present to guide you.
What should I bring with me?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, a towel, and comfortable clothes. Remember, there are no shower facilities at Teddington, so plan to wash thoroughly afterward if splashed or fallen in.
What is the route like?
You’ll paddle either downstream towards Eel Pie Island and Richmond or occasionally upstream towards Kingston, depending on conditions. The route covers scenic parts of the Thames with views of historic sites and wildlife.
How long is the session?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, including safety briefing, land training, and paddling time. Check the schedule for available starting times.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own arrival at The Anglers’ beer garden.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the session for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.
What’s the group size?
The experience is designed for small groups, ensuring personalized coaching and attention from the instructor.
In the end, this paddleboard experience on the Thames offers a relaxed, scenic, and beginner-friendly way to enjoy London’s riverside. Whether you’re after a fun day out, a unique photo opportunity, or just a break from city life, it’s a worthwhile adventure that combines natural beauty with the thrill of balancing on water.