Next steps

Canoes can be hired from numerous centres, or dedicated canoeists can kit themselves out with a canoe, buoyancy aids and paddles for less than a thousand pounds.

Getting afloat

There are hundreds of waterways open to canoeists across Britain, but note that there is no universal right of access to rivers and canals.
Membership of the British Canoe Union gives you the right to paddle on the River Thames and the majority of the British Waterways network, which includes most canals. You can also buy a licence from local waterway offices (find contact details on the relevant waterway pages) or download a short-term licence.

On other rivers - generally those with no access for powered boats - canoeing is at the discretion of the riverbank (or 'riparian') owners. By joining a canoeing organisation, you can share in their knowledge of permitted waterways, participate in shared access schemes, and be able to call upon expert advice from their access officers.

Canal canoeing is ideal for novices. Most of the 2,500-mile British Waterways network is open to unpowered craft, except certain longer tunnels and parts of some major river navigations.

Rivers such as the Wye, which have never been adapted for powered cruisers, offer more challenges for the adventurous canoeist. Dedicated canoe centres and local canoe clubs can offer advice on the opportunities available.

Take care

Canoeing is great fun, but water can be dangerous. Follow these tips for safe and enjoyable canoeing.

• Novices should always be accompanied by an accomplished canoeist.
• Wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid while afloat.
• Check the local waterway safety regulations before you set out.
• Remember, unpowered craft are not permitted through some canal tunnels or on parts of some larger river navigations. If you are permitted to use a tunnel, carry a light and whistle to warn other craft of your presence, and travel through in groups if possible.
• Take care that your craft is suitable for the waterway and that you are competent to use it.
• Locks, weirs and sluices can be very dangerous. Don't stay aboard your craft in a filling or emptying lock - carry it around. If it is too heavy, use ropes to keep control from the side.

Consider other users

When passing anglers, unless they politely request otherwise, follow a straight course and keep to the centre of the channel, in single file.
Don't perform speed events without permission from the local waterway office.

Ready to go? Find a canoeing club near you.