Canoe half day hire | Whitemead Forest Park

Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat East

Duration: Up to 3.5 hours
Length: 9 miles

This half-day canoe hire offers a 9-mile journey through the stunning Wye Valley countryside, allowing guests to enjoy the peaceful beauty of this unique and scenic location. It is an ideal trip for those looking to explore the River Wye at a relaxed pace and is particularly well-suited to families.

Guests begin at the private riverside centre in Symonds Yat East, where they are transported to Kerne Bridge. From there, they paddle downstream back to Symonds Yat East, taking in the surrounding countryside along the way.

For those wishing to extend their time on the water, a late return option is available for an additional £10 per boat—perfect for relaxing, exploring further, or enjoying a riverside picnic

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

Why not extend your trip?- £10 per boat

For arrival times 09:00, 09:45, 10:30 & 11:15
You can enjoy extra time for a floating picnic and return by 16:30

Spars – £2 per pair

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

Launch Charge – £2.50 per boat

Payable upon check-in

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	13:30
09:45	14:15
10:30	15:00
11:15	15:45
12:00	16:30
12:45	17:45

How to book

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

Set in the heart of the Wye Valley, the tranquil River Wye provides the perfect setting for a half-day canoeing experience.

The Start

The experience begins at the private riverside centre in Symonds Yat East. Each participant is provided with a paddle, buoyancy aid, and optional water-resistant barrel. Following a comprehensive safety briefing, guests are transported by minibus on a short 3-mile journey to Kerne Bridge, where the adventure begins.

The Journey

Once on the water, paddlers follow the gentle flow of the river downstream. The peaceful rhythm of canoeing, combined with the surrounding woodland, wildlife and open countryside, creates a relaxing and immersive outdoor experience.

What to Expect

As the canoe glides through the valley, guests may encounter a variety of wildlife, including kingfishers, herons, and even otters. The riverbanks are rich with natural beauty, offering ever-changing views and a true sense of escape.

Passing through Lydbrook, paddlers will see a disused railway bridge before the river winds its way beneath the iconic Symonds Yat Rock viewpoint. This area is known for its dramatic scenery and birdlife, including peregrine falcons.

The Finish

The journey concludes back at Symonds Yat East, where guests can reflect on their experience or enjoy nearby facilities such as the Royal Lodge riverside beer garden.

The Ultimate Upgrade

Guests opting for the late return upgrade can take additional time midway through the journey to stop for a leisurely picnic, relax by the riverbank, and fully enjoy the natural surroundings.