What should I wear?

During the summer we recommend quick drying activewear. No jeans or cotton please, as cotton gets cold and heavy when wet. If you have a summer wetsuit, please feel free to bring it along.

For winter paddling you must wear a winter wetsuit or drysuit.

Is the river safe to swim in?

That’s really your call. The quality of our local waterways is something to always be aware of. There are plenty of wild & open water swimmers who take the plunge all year round. But please do your own research.

Paddle Up do ask participants to cover up any minor cuts and abrasions, and to wash once home if you fall in the river, this is to reduce the risk of weil's disease. If you have any open wounds please do not participate and contact us to reschedule your paddle.

If you feel unwell after your paddle, please contact your doctor and explain that you have been in the river.

Will I fall in?

It’s likely. It is a watersport after all. Come with the same attitude that you would to a surfing lesson. Bring a change of warm dry clothes and a towel.

What if it’s raining?

If it’s just cloud and rain then we still paddle. However, if weather or river conditions are unsafe to paddle on, then we reserve the right to either rearrange, change location, or refund you onto a voucher.

Unsafe conditions include extreme wind/gusts and lightning forecasts. We follow the Environment Agency's advice and will not operate if the river is on a red or yellow warning. You can check river conditions here.

Must I be able to swim?

Yes. A basic level of water confidence is required and we ask that you can swim a minimum of 50m unaided.

Please drop us an email if you haven't found what you're looking for: info@paddleup.co.uk