Canoe and Camp the River Tweed

Nestled on the Scottish Borders, this canoe trip explores one of Britain’s best canoeing rivers. We wild camp on the banks of the Tweed & paddle simple rapids on this stunning canoeing adventure…

Level: Grade 1-2 river journey

Join our published dates or contact us for a private group booking which can be extended - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
£360 (£99 non-refundable deposit to secure your booking with the option of staged payments)

9th to 11th April 2026
Duration: 3 days and 2 nights

One of our favourite all time river trips with grade 1 and grade 2 rapids, starting at Kelso and paddling down to Berwick Upon Tweed on this beautiful river spanning the Scottish / English border. The River Tweed is an iconic touring river with brilliant rapids to progress white water skills, wild camp and enjoy great company.

Nestled on the Scottish Borders, this canoe trip explores one of Britain’s best canoeing rivers. We wild camp on the banks of the Tweed & paddle simple rapids on this stunning canoeing adventure.

This canoe trip explores one of Britain’s best canoeing rivers for practicing moving water and traditional skills such as poling, lining and tracking. The river banks change from winding fields to rocky outcrops and features and ancient Ghilie huts.

Starting at the historic border town of Kelso we paddle down to Coldstream and then onto Norham and the historic walled town of Berwick. The historic route includes stunning bridges, ruined castles and viaducts to explore. This river journey incorporates a mixture of small rapids and drops as well as peaceful paddling through stunning scenery. You will have plenty of opportunities to improve your paddling skills with our qualified and experienced coaches eager to share their knowledge. This is the perfect place to work on 'breaking in', 'breaking out' and ferry gliding as well as board handling such as trim, edge and forward paddling.

Two nights will be spent wild camping on the riverbank, enjoy our free-range evening meals, and sharing stories around the campfire.

Price: £360 for 3 days of guided paddling in canoes or kayaks with delicious camp food (breakfast and evening meal). Secure your place from £99 non refundable deposit and the option of staged payments

Highlights of the Expedition

Navigate a mix of swift rapids and peaceful stretches with expert coaching
Learn traditional river techniques—poling, lining, tracking, ferry gliding, and more
Wild-camp beside the scenic riverbanks, enjoy hearty meals, and share stories around the campfire
See centuries of history come alive—from ruined castles to ancient ghillie huts and evocative landscapes

What’s Included

Canoe or kayak, paddles, buoyancy aid, helmet, dry bag, and basic river map
Professional guides and coaching throughout the journey
All meals (evening and breakfast) and camping arrangements
Safety equipment and optional back support for comfort

Optional Extras (Available on Request)

Drysuit hire
Wetsuit hire
Tent hire
Tipi tent for upgraded camping comfort

What you need to bring

Tent
Sleeping bag and roll mat
Mug bowl and cutlery
Personal kit
Warm clothing and waterproofs

Example Itinerary

Meet Time: 9am on first day to meet and greet followed by shuttling the vehicles to the end point of the trip

Shuttle of Vehicles - After meeting the group we will then shuttle the van and trailer to the end of the trip at Berwick Upon Tweed, Customers will be required to help with the shuttle transport leaving the Canoe Trail vehicle at the end of the trip and then run back to the start location.

Day 1 – Kelso to Coldstream

Set off from Kelso after an expedition briefing. Paddle along the scenic river, learning essential techniques, and settle into your first wild camp.

Day 2 – Coldstream to Riverside Woodland

Raise your skills with moving-water coaching—tackle weirs, drops, and playful currents. In the evening, unwind beside a woodland riverbank, choosing between sleeping in tents or hammocks.

Day 3 – Final Paddle to Berwick-upon-Tweed

Continue downstream past historic bridges and viaducts as you approach Berwick’s walled town. Celebrate your achievements before heading home.

Please Note: The itinerary is subject to change if deemed necessary by Canoe Trail. Vehicle shuttles will be arranged from the start locations to the end destination. This allows ample time for customers to practice their skills on the water. Depending on water levels, we may occasionally switch to the local River Till on the first day, ensuring an equally fantastic experience.

Who Should Join

Perfect for paddlers with some canoeing experience eager to develop their skills in a supportive environment. A moderate level of fitness is helpful, as each day includes several hours on the water. Beginners looking to improve are welcome—our expert coaching will guide your progression.

Why Choose This Expedition

Expert guidance from passionate, experienced canoe coaches
A perfect blend of adventure, skill-building, and cultural immersion
Wild camping in beautiful natural settings
Explore an iconic river shared between Scotland and England, rich in wildlife and heritage

Testimonials & Accolades

“An unforgettable journey—scenic, well-paced, and hugely rewarding.” – Recent guest

Featured in prestigious outdoor and travel publications, reinforcing the quality and reputation of our expeditions.

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.