If you’re looking for a family adventure in Shropshire that gets you outdoors and away from the usual day out, canoeing on the River Severn is well worth considering.
We discovered that for ourselves when the Brook family took to the water for a half-day canoe trip along a beautiful stretch of the River Severn.
We had sunshine, gentle rapids, a picnic by the river and plenty of laughs along the way. It turned out to be one of those memorable days that reminded us how much there is to do in Shropshire when you want to spend more time outdoors.
Best of all, you don’t need to be an experienced paddler to enjoy a day like this.
Here’s what our River Severn canoeing adventure was really like.
Our River Severn Canoe Trip
We originally booked a half-day trip with a local canoe operator, covering around 6.5 miles of the River Severn.
Our adventure began near Ironbridge, where we met our instructor and were given the equipment we needed, along with some helpful pointers on staying safe and steering the canoe.
We had been canoeing before, but none of us would describe ourselves as experts. Ella paired up with me while Fern went with Jon. She wasn’t entirely convinced that Daddy’s steering skills were up to the challenge, but she climbed aboard anyway!
And with that, we were off.
A quick note if you’re planning your own trip: Our family adventure took place several years ago, so canoe operators, routes, launch points and trip arrangements may have changed. Always check current information with your chosen canoe hire provider before setting out.
What Is Canoeing on the River Severn Like?
Once we were on the water, it didn’t take long to understand why the River Severn is such a wonderful place to explore by canoe.
The scenery along this part of the river is beautiful. Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, you get to float downstream and see the Shropshire countryside from an entirely different perspective.
The sun was shining during our trip, and for long stretches we simply let the current carry us along. There were some gentle rapids to add a little excitement, but thankfully nothing resembling the white waters of the Zambezi!
We managed them without drama and soon settled into the rhythm of paddling downstream.
Is River Severn Canoeing Suitable for Families?
For us, it made a brilliant family day out.
Ella and Fern soon became comfortable in the canoes, perhaps a little too comfortable.
As they were both sitting at the front, Jon and I could immediately tell whenever the paddling stopped. A carefully aimed flick of water from our paddles usually encouraged them to start again! The canoes felt surprisingly stable and comfortable. Despite packing spare clothes just in case, we didn’t have a single “that was close” moment, and everything stayed dry.
If you’re thinking about family canoeing in Shropshire, check the current age limits and requirements with your chosen operator. These vary depending on the route, water conditions and type of craft.
For beginners, booking through an established canoe hire company also means you can get the right equipment and a safety briefing before heading onto the water.
A Picnic Beside the River
About halfway through our trip, we found a quiet spot beside the river where we could pull the canoes out and stop for our picnic.
It ended up being one of our favourite parts of the day. There was no rush, no busy café and no queue. Just the river, the countryside and a few sheep keeping us company.
If you’re planning a similar River Severn canoe trip, ask your canoe operator whether there are suitable stopping points along your chosen route and how much time you should allow.
A waterproof bag for food, phones and anything else you want to keep dry is also very useful.
What to Take Canoeing on the River Severn
What you’ll need depends on the weather and your chosen canoe provider, but a little preparation can make the day much more comfortable.
For a warm-weather trip, we’d suggest bringing:
- Comfortable clothes that can get wet
- Suitable footwear
- A change of clothes
- Sunscreen
- A hat and sunglasses
- Drinking water
- Snacks or a packed lunch
- A waterproof bag for valuables
Your canoe hire provider should tell you what equipment is included and what you need to bring yourself.
And remember, river conditions can change. Check the weather, river conditions and advice from your operator before setting out.
Finishing Our Canoeing Adventure in Bridgnorth
Eventually our time on the water came to an end in Bridgnorth. After all that paddling, we felt we’d earned a treat.
Our original plan of finishing with a drink at the pub wasn’t possible at the time, so we headed for ice cream instead, which, after several miles on the river, nobody complained about.
Bridgnorth makes a lovely ending to a day outdoors. If you have some energy left, spend a little time exploring the town before heading back to your accommodation.
If you enjoy exploring Shropshire at a slower pace, you might also like our 5 local walks in Shropshire for more countryside adventures during your stay.
Why Is the River Severn So Special?
The River Severn isn’t just another Shropshire waterway. At around 220 miles long, it is the longest river in Great Britain, beginning in the Welsh mountains before flowing through Shropshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire towards the Severn Estuary.
Along the way, it passes through some wonderful countryside and historic places.
For visitors to Shropshire, canoeing gives you a completely different perspective on the landscape. Instead of seeing the river from a bridge or walking beside it, you’re right in the middle of it. The slower pace also gives you time to appreciate the woodland, fields and wildlife along the riverbank.
If spending time on and around the water is your idea of a good day out, you might also enjoy our guide to a wild swimming escape in Shropshire.
Turn Your River Severn Adventure Into a Shropshire Break
One of the things we love about living here is how easy it is to fill a few days with outdoor adventures.
You might spend one day canoeing on the River Severn, another exploring the Shropshire Hills on foot, and still have time to discover the area’s market towns, pubs and countryside.
And after a day of paddling, returning somewhere peaceful to put your feet up feels even better.
Explore our countryside lodges and make Moonrise Lodges your base for discovering more of Shropshire.
FAQs About Canoeing on the River Severn
Can you canoe on the River Severn?
Yes. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on sections of the River Severn, including stretches through Shropshire around Ironbridge, Bridgnorth and the Severn Valley.
Several local operators offer canoe hire and organised or self-guided trips. If you’re unfamiliar with the river, booking with an established operator is a good way to get the right equipment, route information, and a safety briefing.
What is special about the River Severn?
The River Severn is the longest river in Great Britain, running for around 220 miles from the Welsh mountains through Shropshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire before reaching the Severn Estuary.
For paddlers, its combination of countryside, wildlife, historic towns and varied stretches of water makes it an interesting river to explore.
Do you need a licence to kayak on the River Severn?
It depends on which section of the River Severn you intend to paddle, because navigation and access arrangements differ along the river. For example, the Canal & River Trust manages the navigable section from Stourport to Gloucester, where its licensing requirements apply.
If you’re hiring a canoe or kayak, check with the operator about the requirements for your particular trip. If you’re bringing your own craft, check the latest access and licensing information for the exact section you intend to use before getting on the water.
Is canoeing on the River Severn suitable for beginners?
River Severn canoe trips are available for beginners, but suitability depends on the section, current river conditions, and the operator’s requirements.
Choose a route appropriate to your experience and follow the safety guidance provided by your canoe hire company.
What are the best rivers to canoe in the UK?
The UK has many excellent paddling destinations, and the best choice depends on the type of experience you’re looking for.
The River Severn is a great option for countryside scenery and accessible day trips through Shropshire. Other popular paddling destinations include the River Wye, the River Thames, and waterways across the Lake District, Wales, and Scotland.
Always check local access rights, licensing requirements, weather and water conditions before planning a trip.
Would We Go Canoeing on the River Severn Again?
Absolutely.
Our family canoe trip gave us exactly what we’d hoped for: fresh air, beautiful Shropshire countryside, a little adventure and plenty of family memories. There were laughs, gentle rapids, a riverside picnic and, of course, a well-earned ice cream at the end.
If you enjoy outdoor activities and are looking for something different to do during a Shropshire break, canoeing on the River Severn deserves a place on your list.
