Canoeing in the UK | TOAD Outdoor Activities

Canoeing

ALSO KNOWN AS:
  • Canadian Canoeing |

Canoeing

Canoes are one of the oldest forms of human travel with canoeists sitting or kneeling whilst paddling, and using single bladed paddles. This is the key thing that differentiates canoeing from kayaking, its sister sport, which uses a double-headed paddle. Canoes, in terms of the boats themselves, are generally open to the elements, with the only exception being those used in canoe slalom or white-water rivers.

Originally invented as a form of transport, canoeing is now widely used for sport, recreation and competition as well. Born out of a need for hunting, fishing and moving goods around, the sport developed hugely during the 20th century and became part of the Olympic Games for the first time in 1936. Individuals can canoe as part of a club, day trip, or purchase their own boat, and paddle rivers, canals and lakes around the world.

Although beginners might be nervous about not being able to steer the boat properly or tipping it over, these issues are easily avoided, and many starter canoes are wide enough to avoid this. The only kit needed is a paddle, a life jacket, and a good canoeing partner – ideally someone who knows what they’re doing and can help to steer the boat. Thanks to the ease of access, and the availability of different types of boats, canoeing can be enjoyed by people of different ages and abilities. Just hold the paddle with your inside hand at the top, dig it into the water, bring the paddle back in a smooth, sweeping motion, and away you’ll go!

Whether to race, see the world from a different perspective, to fish or camp, or head out for a picnic, there are plenty of ways to enjoy canoeing. Find a location near you below, or check out some other water activities.

All Canoeing Providers

Select Activity

Select Location




Product Reviews

blank
SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack SwissGear produce great kit and the 199 ScanSmart laptop backpack doesn’t
blank
MPOW Wireless Headphones Performance on a number of levels that runners will appreciate. As you can see, they’re
blank
King Bike Road and Mountain Helmet - Hybrid Whether you’re
blank
Prowell F59 Cycle Helmet A great-looking, very comfortable helmet with good venting and visibility. [amazon
blank
Pearl Izumi The Pearl Izumi cycling shoe is classically-styled to make a statement, and technically designed to ensure an
blank
Cycleafer A good-looking, solid light with good features, at a good price. [amazon box="B077GYW7WX"
blank
Phoibos – PX005B It appears as if Phoibos set aside all pretence and hype, and invested in one primary concept –
blank
The Head Supershape Magnum are fast, can handle short carves and long carves and also are at a great price. [amazon
blank
Blueborn Boat Indika 2 Will exceed your expectations in all conditions... [amazon box="B00KEYWCB2"
blank
JT Elite Prime Goggle A basic mask with some great features that comes in at a very affordable price. [amazon
blank
Red Paddle - The Whip A very fun board to surf on and easy to take anywhere! [amazon box="B01LXQFY1M"
blank
Hurley Phantom Best Men's Full Wetsuits For
blank
Neil Pryde Ryde By Ollie Acton Buying a windsurfing sail is


Similar Activities

blank
Coasteering
blank
Kayaking
blank
Rafting