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Canoe Hire

  Canoe Hire We offer canoe hire and equipment with simple bank-based tuition at great river locations.Hire 2 person, 3 person or a family canoe for 4 for your very own adventure on the River…
Level: Grade 0 - This means it is a flat paddle and should be within most people’s abilities.
  • Hire available all week (April to October)
  • 2 - 4 persons or book a group activity with us
  • From £38
Options: Choose from canoes, kayaks and paddleboards when booking

What's Included

  • Craft
  • Buoyancy Aid
  • Basic Map
  • Bank Based Briefing
  • Dry Bag
  • Paddles

What else we can provide on request

  • Trolley by arrangement
  • Waterproofs
  • Hire of Wetsuits

 

Canoe Hire

We offer canoe hire and equipment with simple bank-based tuition at great river locations.Hire 2 person, 3 person or a family canoe for 4 for your very own adventure on the River Great Ouse.

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Popular Hire

What is a Canoe?

Canoes are the traditional (Canadian) open boats originally used for load-carrying and exploring Canada’s remote wilderness. We have a large collection of canoes allowing 2, 3, or 4 paddlers to take to the water.

A canoe paddle has a blade on one end and a T piece of grip on the other with paddlers facing forwards. Our canoes vary in design from traditional prospector designs in 16ft and 17ft canoes as well as shorter more stable 14.5ft designs. The larger canoes are more stable, wider, and slower. We also have canoes for sale from time to time.

Our canoe rental fleet involves booking different seating configurations, like a 2 Person Canoe, for a selected time of your choice such as our 1 hour trip, half day and full day on the water. We have temporary seats for children and young people as well as kids-sized paddlers.

Couple hiring a yellow canoe on the River Ouse

Hire a Canoe for a Full Day

Our canoe hire (we also rent paddle boards and kayaks) is based on the River Great Ouse in Bedford. The best way to rent canoes is to book one of our river journeys. Pick your route and craft for a self-guided hire (there and back). If you want to try something a little longer and possibly a bit more challenging then you can opt for a multiday trip with canoe camping options staying at our woodland campsite. Whether you hire a canoe, kayak, double kayak, or stand-up paddleboard you will also find that you can travel at slightly different speeds. 

Group of 6 people hiring canoe from Canoe Trail

Hire for Large Groups (over 16 people)

You can hire for a large group via our online booking or we can offer a longer river journey to larger groups (minimum of 16 people). They offer a perfect mix of stunning rural countryside and Bedford’s Victorian Embankment. There are a number of different options for paddling and hire on the River Great Ouse. We can advise you on duration and route depending on what the group is looking for, length of time paddling, pace, and of course what you would like to see. These include:

  • Bromham to Bedford (6 miles): This starts below the 14th century stone bridge and small rapids in Bromham and flows gently down to Kempston Weir which you need to portage (carry around) and then continues down into Bedford and its historic Victorian Embankment. Paddlers usually stop by the Longholme Boating Lake and café.
  • Bedford to Great Barford (7 ½ miles): This part of the trail starts near the Butterfly Bridge on Bedford’s Embankment opposite Russell Park on the lower river. Paddlers then paddle down to Cardington and postage past Cardington Lock, onto Castle Mill with another portage (carry around) before arriving at the final Lock at Willington. This part of the trail passes through the Bedford River Valley Park and the Danish Camp, Riverside Café. This section of the trail ends at Great Barford next to the Anchor pub and the bridge above Great Barford Weir
  • Great Barford to St Neots (8miles): Great Barford to St Neots is another particularly rural and scenic stretch of the river. The water here is crystal clear with a few reeds rippling in the lazy current. The trail passes the back of Wyboston Lakes, the old Mill at Eaton Soccon, and heads into St Neots riverside town. The trail either ends at the Ambiance Café next to the town bridge or further downstream at the River Side Campsite where many of our paddlers chose to camp over.

 Longer river journeys include:

  • Bromham to Great Barford (13 ½ miles typically about 6-7 hours)
  • Bedford to St Neots (14 miles typically 7 hours)
Contact Us for Large Group Hire

Frequently Asked Questions

What if it rains?
Unless you hear from us then your booking will run on the day agreed. Canoe Trail runs watersports, paddling, and adventurous activities throughout the year with people enjoying the river and our woodland campsite during the different seasons. On rare occasions (it only happens a few times a year) we may move or change your booking. This will be in freak weather conditions such as extremely high river flows in spate or during heavy storms with lightning. You can read our full FAQ here.
What should I wear?
We paddle all the year round and believe the old adage “There is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing”! Participants should wear light (gym style) clothing suitable for getting wet such as tracksuit bottoms or shorts and a top. Jeans are not the best things to wear as they wick water. In simple terms, dress for the weather and check the forecast beforehand. If cold then a thermal top or sweatshirt may also be needed. Hats and gloves are a great way to feel slightly warmer in winter and caps and wide-brimmed hats are also useful in summer to protect you from the sun. You should also bring a change of clothes in the event that you get wet. We do have waterproofs usually available, you can arrange for some courses and trips to hire wetsuits and drysuits.
Are the trips guided?
There are no guides or instructors needed for hire of canoes, kayaks or SUP's. This is simply a hire where you paddle out and back to our launch point or in some cases an A to B journey via your chosen craft, canoe, kayak or Stand up paddle board. You will receive a full briefing from a professional outdoor instructor before you set off. We recommend our preferred routes and timings for your ease, however, you are free-range and able to explore the river at your leisure but ensuring you are back for your agreed return time.
How does the booking process work?
During the season our hire of canoes, kayaks, and SUPs, and paddle and camp trips are scheduled for customers to book via an automated schedule. Typically Kempston base is open throughout the season 7 days a week whereas Bedford is usually weekends or holidays. At the time of booking you will need to enter medical information, any special requirements and sizes into the booking forms. You will also need to provide contact details and emergency contact details as a contingency. Depending on what you are doing (e.g. camping, expeds, etc), you can book optional extras such as wood (you need to bring your own otherwise), water, grills, tipis and luggage service, or if you're on an exped you can hire hire drysuits. Once you have booked and your information is captured by the system, you will receive an automated email including a QR code and parking information to help you arrive in good time for your booking and get checked in. See our Terms & Conditions - www.canoetrail.co.uk/terms-and-conditions
Why can't I select a date to book?
Our schedules are automated and are linked to the calendar and available resources. We have over 260 craft available (canoes, kayaks and SUP’s) so you can drop us a line if you want a date that you cant see. Our Kempston base is throughout the season every day whereas Bedford is only weekends and holidays. There is a cut off time of 30 mins prior to each time slot, so if you are making a last minute booking then call us and we can help!
What happens if we're late?
You will need to arrive 10 mins before your booking time to allow for registration etc. If you arrive late, please note that you may not be able to do the trip you booked and may have to do an alternative route. In some cases, you may not be able to paddle on that day. If you are running late then please let us know ASAP by calling our mobile number. Please contact us to let us know if you are going to be late. Our staff work on tight schedules to load kit and reset trailers for the day. On expeditions and trips we aim to share our beautiful surroundings, wildlife and vistas with the group and cover the distance. We will travel at the speed of the group so occasionally an injury, participant struggling or inclement weather may affect our finish time. On courses we aim to start on time for the entire group to cover the course syllabus. occasionally an injury, participant struggling or inclement weather may affect our finish time.
Are estimated durations for the trips accurate?
We have operated on this river for many years and have built up experience of how long it takes people to paddle each route. Our times allow the average time and we have graded all of our trips to further help you choose the right one for you (Slow, Medium, or Hard). Even our Hard trips will be easily achievable for those who are relatively fit and paddle at a steady rate. Please note if you think that you will not make the pick-up time, please call us immediately as you may have to be picked up at a later time.
What happens if I need to postpone?
When you make a booking you are reserving the equipment and space for your booking , your seat and place (as you would with an airline) and although we have multiple craft (over 300 ) they are not all available at every location. Please do let us know if you are going to have to postpone and in some instances with notice we may be able to move your booking in our calendar with an admin fee. Closer to the booking we are not able to accept a postponement.
What is the youngest age of children allowed on the water?
We recommend our youngest paddlers to be at least 3 years old. You and the child will need to be confident around water. Obviously you need to manage any trips to keep the children entertained with food and drink and regular breaks. The river Great Ouse around Kempston and Bedford provides a fantastic outdoor experience with nature, lots to see and explore as well as plenty of history. Please contact us if you wish to bring children under 3 years.
Do I need a licence for a canoe, kayak, or SUP?
A common question we get asked is whether you need a licence for paddling canoes, kayaks or SUP's. The answer on rivers and navigable waterways is yes. As Canoe Trail we buy licences through our National Governing Body Paddle UK to cover all of our watersports activities. We recommend buying Paddle UK membership with many benefits including river licence and also discounts with key brands. The Paddle UK licence also allows access to certain private watersways such as Cambridge Backs, Norfolk Broads and waters managed by the Environment Agency. Other options for licences include the Canal and River Trust where you can purchase a 30 day Explorer Licence (this is limited to water controlled by them). You can also purchase licences for specific waters controlled by the Environment Agency such as River Thames, River Medway and Anglian Waterways. So to summarise Paddle UK is the best membership for access to the majority of waterways. Hire companies such as Canoe Trail provide the licence when you rent the canoe, kayak or Stand up paddle board.
How fit do I need to be?
You don’t need to be super fit to paddle, but a bit of stamina helps, especially around locks. Our 1-hour and half-day hires don’t include any locks, so there’s very little lifting. Full-day hires usually involve at least one, where you’ll need to move your craft a short distance on land (they do make great picnic spots though!). All of our routes for hire are considered 'Grade 0' meaning they're a great choice for beginners and we’ll give you plenty of tips before you head out. If you’re unsure, just give us a call. For expeditions then we often use the analogy of walking in the hills for a day with a light rucksack, its not lung busting effort but it does require up to 6-7 hours paddling in the great outdoors. We can provide guidance for customers on building Paddlefit endurance ahead of bigger trips.
Is there a weight limit for paddlers and equipment?
Generally there is a craft for everyone whatever their weight. Our instructors will try and match you to the best craft for you. Kayaks have a closed cockpit where your legs sit inside the kayak so the cockpit size is the critical element. We have several cockpits on certain craft that are larger and some craft are more stable than offers. Sit on Tops, double and single are more stable than conventional sit in kayaks. In some instances for taller and larger humans we have also provided one of our double kayaks for them to paddle solo to feel more comfortable. Similarly we have a range of canoe sizes from 15ft with 2 seats to 16ft with 2 or 3 seats and 17ft with 2 or 3 seats. The longer canoes are wider and more stable. With stand up paddle boards we have a range of boards that are thicker and wider which will be easier for bigger people. If you are unsure about the best craft for you then please do ask.
Do you take photographs?
We aim to take pictures at the start of your trip and post these to our social media for your ease of access. If you take pictures of your paddling trip please tag them with #canoetrail, @canoetrails (Twitter/Instagram/TikTok), Canoe Trail on Facebook/Trip Adviser.
How to find us. Transport? Parking?
The more rural locations have lay-bys and small car parks available. Please allow time for parking so you are not running late. Parking in Bedford can be more of a challenge but the council does have their own designated parking locations, please have a look online for the closest one to your start point and prices.
How do I protect my valuables?
We offer drybags as part of your hire, these are designed to keep whatever you put in them dry - so it's best to place your valuables (phone, wallets, car keys, etc) inside of them. Drybags are also designed to float by trapping air inside them (if sealed correctly). If you do not wish to use a drybag offered to you, please note we are not liable for any valuables dropped in the river.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Participants should be confident in and around water although they do not need to be swimmers. We will provide all safety briefings and equipment for the day, including a buoyancy aid for all paddlers.
Whats the difference between a kayak and canoe?
The kayak is the craft where you use a double ended paddle, available as single or tandem where your legs are out in front of you. We do have some Sit on Top kayaks at our base in Kempston on the River Great Ouse, (single or tandem). Traditionally kayaks or qayaqs were used by the Inuit hunters. Canoes were traditionally used for trading and exploring the Canadian Interior using a half length paddle with a single blade. Although they can be solo'd (a more intermediate skill that we teach on our courses), canoes are usually paddled in tandem, with 3 paddlers or a family canoe with 2 adults and 2 children. The canoe is perfect for carrying camping kit. https://www.canoetrail.co.uk/about-us/blog/paddling-articles/the-difference-between-a-kayak-and-canoe
How many people can I fit in a canoe?
Canoes come in different sizes, and in our fleet they vary from 15ft to 17ft. Our 15ft canoes are smaller and lighter offering easy manuoeavrability with 2 seats one in the stern and one in the bow. Our 16ft canoes are confgured with either 2 or 3 seats allowing them to carry 3 passengers or 2 adults and 2 smaller children. Our larger 17ft family canoes either have 2 or 3 seats and we have temp seats to extend the capacity ot 4 people.
What are the locks on the river?
The locks along the river are great spots to stop and take a break and many are really scenic too. Getting in and out is usually via low portage platforms on either side of the locks, though sometimes it’s from moorings or floating pontoons. On a full-day paddle, you’ll likely pass a few locks, so be ready for a bit of lifting to move your craft. If you’re unsure, just give us a call!
Will I end up in the water? Do I need a wetsuit?
We generally recommend dressing for the weather and seasons. Wear warmer clothes in Spring and Autumn, in Summer and during hot spells then shorts and tee shirts is more the rule. The majority of our customers wear similar kit to a hill walk with lycra, layers and a coat if required. We usually reckon about 1 in 120 fall in and that is usually because someone is playing around or near the edge. Our craft are super stable and designed to remove the stress around falling in.Unless you are taking in a course or longer trip then we would suggest a wetsuit is not needed.
Do we get a safety breifing, paddle deminstation, and a map?
Before you head out, we’ll give you a clear safety briefing, a quick paddle demo, and chat through your route. You’ll also get a handy laminated copy of the map to take with you. For full-day trips, we'll also give some simple guidance for getting past each lock. By the time you set off, you’ll feel well prepared and with such a calm, easy-going river, our trips are perfect for beginners.
Can we bring our dog on day trip or camping?
Yes, we love dogs and regularly take ours out in the canoe. However, if you are particularly nervous please remember that they can make the boats slightly more wobbly. Please also note that you can only bring your dog in the canoes, as they don’t fit in the kayaks.
How do I get back to my car at the end of my trip?
Your booking confirmation will provide you with a postcode for the start and finish of your trip. If you are not paddling a circular or out and back route, we will provide you with a complimentary shuttle service at the end of your paddle back to your vehicle. On busy days when we have lots of different groups paddling, we will need to run the drivers only.
Can I launch my own craft?
You can launch your own craft on the River Great Ouse from various locations including Kempston Mill, Bedford Embankment and Great Barford. Be courteous in your parking and launching being aware of other river users, boats, rowers in Bedford and fisher folk. You do need a river licence to paddle on the River. When hiring Canoe Trail covers your water access and licence. We dont allow third party launching from our centre unless it is part of a larger hire group or private booking.
Do I need previous experience paddling to hire?
Lots of our canoe and kayak trips are perfect for beginners—we’ll give you a full briefing and plenty of tips to get you started. If you’re unsure, try a shorter trip or just give us a call. SUP is a bit different and can take a little longer to get the hang of standing—but you can always start off kneeling. We also run SUP courses if you’d like to build your confidence first.

Hire FAQ's

What's the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

If you're not sure of what each craft is, then read our guide here.

Are the trips guided?
There are no guides or instructors needed for hire. This is simply a hire where you paddle out and back to our launch point. We recommend our preferred route, however, you are free-range and able to explore the river.
What if it rains?
Unless you hear from us then your booking will run on the day agreed. Canoe Trail runs watersports, paddling, and adventurous activities throughout the year with people enjoying the river and our woodland campsite during the different seasons. On rare occasions (it only happens a couple of times a year) we may move or change your booking. This will be in freak weather conditions such as extremely high river flows in spate or during heavy storms with lightning. You can read our full FAQ here.
How does the booking process work?
We use a live booking system that will assign you the relevant craft and resources. Once you have confirmed your booking date, it is not then transferable and non-refundable in the same way you book an airline seat. Bookings are to be paid in full at the time of booking and are non-refundable. There will be no refunds for early returns, poor weather, or non-usage as per our general terms & conditions.

Location

Kempston Outdoor Centre, park at the Mill Car Park or our Bedford location

We Value Relationships

Sophie (Fun 4 Young People)
5 stars

We have used Canoe Trail for many years. Run by fantastic people with some great activities on offer. Highly recommend.

Michael (Goldington Academy)
5 stars

Regularly use Canoe Trail for DofE and our School outdoor adventure trips. Professional to deal with and an amazing team of instructors.

Gemma
5 stars

Highly recommend Canoe Trail whether you’re looking to improve your paddling or just a fun family day out on one of the river trails.

Matthew
5 stars

Just returned from a week in Scotland with Canoe Trail. It was one of the best organised trips I have done. The team were awesome, great instruction with loads of patience for those new to paddling.

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