Canoe full day hire | Whitemead Forest Park

Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat East

Duration: 5-6 hours (average paddling pace is 3mph)
Suitability: this is a full day 15 mile paddle, suited to those who have canoed before and are up for the duration
Length: 15 miles

This full-day canoe journey takes guests along the River Wye through the stunning Wye Valley countryside. An earlier start is recommended to avoid busier launch times and make the most of the experience.

This trip is best suited to more experienced paddlers looking to enjoy a longer, more immersive route.

All guests are required to arrive at the Wyedean Canoe & Adventure Centre in Symonds Yat East, where transport will be provided to the starting point in Ross-on-Wye.

Canoes & Pricing - Available Options

2 person Canoe – £65 per boat

Minimum of 1 adult + 1 child over 12 years old

3 person Canoe – £80 per boat

2 adults + 1 child under 16 years old
OR 1 adult + 2 children (12-16 years old)

3 Adult Canoe – £90 per boat

Maximum combined weight = 34 stone

Family Canoe – £90 per boat

2 small adults + 2 small children under 100cm

Single Kayak – £45 per boat

Professional training required
Minimum of 16 years old (accompanied by an 18+)
Must be part of a group of 2 or more people

Double Kayak – £65 per boat

Experience required

Optional Extras

Spars – £2 per pair

Join 2 canoes together
Great for families and those who want to be more sociable

Dogs – £6 per dog

Take 1 x well behaved dog under 20kg with you
As long as you think they will settle in the bottom of the canoe
The lead must be removed at all times.

Times

Check in time at the centre	Latest return time
09:00	16:30
10:00	16:30

• We take payment by Debit or Credit Card (Not American Express sorry)
• You will receive a confirmation email upon booking
• By placing a booking with us, you are accepting our Terms & Conditions

Cancellation Policy

• 50% of the payment is refundable if cancelled more than 14 days prior to the activity
• 50% is non refundable
• If you cancel in less than 14 days there is no refund

Full description

The journey begins with a short 10–15 minute minibus transfer from the Symonds Yat East centre to the launch point at the historic town of Ross-on-Wye.

Following a full safety briefing, guests begin their paddle along the River Wye, starting with approximately 6 miles of calm, scenic water. As the route progresses, paddlers pass Kerne Bridge, where views of Goodrich Castle can be seen on the right.

Continuing through Bishopswood and Lydbrook, the route passes the Welsh Bicknor Youth Hostel and a small riverside church. The river then flows beneath a disused railway bridge at Lower Lydbrook before winding in a large horseshoe bend beneath the famous Symonds Yat Rock viewpoint, where peregrine falcons can often be spotted.

With approximately two hours remaining, this is an ideal point to pause for a floating picnic. Guests are reminded to leave no trace.

The final section of the journey passes under Huntsham Bridge and through Symonds Yat West, before returning to the Symonds Yat East centre.

This 15-mile trip is designed to be completed at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings.

Top Tip: An early start helps avoid busy river traffic and provides a more peaceful experience.