Get ready to paddle your way through the tranquil River Stort in Hertfordshire. This stand-up paddleboarding adventure takes you upstream, offering a chance to explore the area’s scenic beauty. From navigating locks to stopping at a charming country pub, you’ll experience the thrill of working as a team. With safety gear provided and easy access from London, it’s an outdoor activity you won’t want to miss. Discover what makes this journey so captivating.
Key Points
- A 3.5-hour stand up paddleboarding adventure on the River Stort in Hertfordshire, starting from Sawbridgeworth and heading upstream to Tednamebury lock.
- The activity emphasizes teamwork during portages around locks and requires participants to carry, launch, and portage paddleboards.
- Pricing starts at $75.01 per person, with flexible booking options and full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Safety measures are prioritized, including mandatory buoyancy aids and remote supervision by an instructor.
- The activity is accessible from London via a 40-minute train ride and close to the M11 junction 7a for drivers.
Activity Overview
Participants can expect a stand up paddleboarding adventure on the tranquil River Stort in Hertfordshire. The 3.5-hour tour starts in Sawbridgeworth, with a short carry from the boat storage to the water.
Paddlers will head upstream to Tednamebury lock and stop at a traditional thatched country pub near Spellbrook. The activity emphasizes teamwork during portages around locks.
Participants must be able to carry, launch, and portage the paddleboards. Buoyancy aids are provided and mandatory. An instructor remotely supervises the paddling, but participants are responsible for their own risk assessment based on weather conditions.
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Pricing and Booking
The stand up paddleboarding adventure costs from $75.01 per person.
Booking is flexible – you can reserve now and pay later. On top of that, a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. This ensures customers can plan their trip with confidence.
The pricing covers the 3.5-hour activity, including paddling upstream to Tednamebury lock and visiting a traditional pub. Participants must be able to handle the paddleboards and boats.
Safety equipment like buoyancy aids are provided. An instructor remotely supervises the paddling, though a personal risk assessment is required based on weather conditions.
Safety and Equipment
Safety is paramount for this paddleboarding adventure. Participants must be able to carry, launch, and portage the paddleboards and boats. Buoyancy aids are provided for all and are mandatory while on the water.
Paddling is supervised remotely by an instructor, though a personal risk assessment is required based on weather conditions. Participants will paddle independently, but the trip emphasizes teamwork during portage around locks.
Wearing a wetsuit is recommended, though waterproof clothing and wetsuits aren’t provided. The safety measures ensure a secure yet engaging stand-up paddleboarding experience on the River Stort.
Travel Information
Accessible from London, the stand-up paddleboarding adventure on the River Stort can be reached via a 40-minute train ride from Liverpool Street station to Sawbridgeworth station.
The tour’s starting point is in Sawbridgeworth, with a short carry from the boat storage to the water. For those driving, the activity is close to M11 junction 7a.
Travelers can also reach the area via London Stansted Airport, as the location is accessible by local train. The combination of public transport and road access makes this stand-up paddleboarding experience convenient for participants coming from various parts of the region.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the River Stort
Paddling upstream on the River Stort offers a chance to take in the area’s picturesque countryside. The adventure takes participants on a journey through tranquil waters, passing by charming thatched-roof cottages and lush greenery.
The highlight is reaching Tednamebury lock, where participants can moor their paddleboards and explore a traditional country pub. The return trip downstream offers a chance to take in the scenic views and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the river.
Throughout the journey, you will need to work together to portage around the lock, fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie.
Visiting the Thatched Country Pub
After paddling upstream, you will reach Tednamebury lock, where they can moor their paddleboards and visit a traditional thatched country pub.
The pub offers:
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A cozy, rustic atmosphere with exposed beams and a roaring fireplace.
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A selection of local ales, ciders, and wines to enjoy.
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A menu featuring classic British pub fare, such as fish and chips or a hearty shepherd’s pie.
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A peaceful outdoor seating area overlooking the river, perfect for relaxing after the paddling adventure.
Teamwork and Portage
Once paddlers reach Tednamebury lock, they’ll need to work together to portage their paddleboards around it. Teamwork is essential, as boards can be heavy and awkward to carry. The group must coordinate their efforts to safely lift and transport the boards over land, around the lock, and back into the water.
| Task | Responsibility |
| — | — |
| Lift Boards | All participants |
| Carry Boards | Shared among group |
| Navigate Lock | Lead paddler guides group |
| Re-launch Boards | All participants |
Successful portage requires communication, cooperation, and a shared commitment to the group’s safety and progress. Paddlers who work together smoothly will find the task much easier and more enjoyable.
What to Bring and Wear
Participants should bring a few key items for the stand up paddleboarding adventure.
Besides the required buoyancy aids provided, there are a handful of other essentials:
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Waterproof clothing – A wetsuit is highly recommended to stay warm and comfortable on the water.
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Towel and change of clothes – Bring a towel and some dry clothes to change into after the activity.
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Sun protection – Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must.
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Water and snacks – Pack some water and light refreshments to fuel the 3.5-hour excursion.
The focus is on the necessary gear to make the most of the paddleboarding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need Any Prior Paddleboarding Experience?
No prior paddleboarding experience is required. The activity is supervised, and participants are provided with buoyancy aids. However, they’ll need to be able to carry, launch, and portage the paddleboards and boats.
Can I Bring My Own Paddleboard?
Participants can’t bring their own paddleboards. The activity provider supplies all the necessary equipment. Bringing personal boards isn’t allowed as it could raise safety concerns and interfere with the group experience.
Is There an Age Limit for Participants?
There’s no specific age limit, but participants must be able to carry, launch, and portage the paddleboards. The activity’s physical demands make it suitable for most ages with appropriate experience and fitness levels.
What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?
In the event of inclement weather, the activity may be postponed or canceled at the instructor’s discretion. Participants will be notified as soon as possible, and a full refund will be offered for any cancellations.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Participants are welcome to take photos during the tour, though they should be mindful not to let it distract from their paddling. The instructor can provide guidance on safely capturing images while on the water.
The Sum Up
Stand-up paddleboarding on the River Stort offers an exhilarating adventure. With stunning scenery, a stop at a charming country pub, and opportunities for teamwork, it’s an ideal outdoor activity for those seeking a unique experience in nature. Accessible from London, this 3.5-hour expedition is a must-try for adventure seekers looking to explore Hertfordshire’s picturesque waterways.
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