Canoeing & Kayaking on the River Wye from Doward Park Campsite
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
The River Wye is one of Britain's most beautiful rivers for canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding. Just 10–15 minutes from Doward Park Campsite, you'll find some of the best launch points around Symonds Yat, with routes suitable for complete beginners through to experienced paddlers. Whether you're looking for a gentle family paddle or a full-day adventure, there are routes suitable for all abilities.
📍 Closest launch: Symonds Yat
🚗 Drive: 10 -15 minutes (depending on launch point)
⭐ Best for: Families, couples and beginners
🛶 Canoes, kayaks & paddleboards available
🕒 Trips: 60 minutes to full day
🌲 Combine with: Ye Old Ferrie Inn or Saracens Head pubs
Why canoe the River Wye? Paddling the River Wye gives you a completely different perspective of the Wye Valley. Glide beneath limestone cliffs, pass ancient woodland, spot kingfishers, herons and even peregrine falcons, and enjoy one of Britain's most scenic canoeing rivers.
Which trip should I choose?
60 minutes
Perfect for families with young children.
Half-day paddle
Ideal if you're combining it with another attraction.
Full-day trip
Great if you want the classic River Wye experience with picnic stops and riverside pubs. Wildlife you might spot on the River Wye - Kingfishers - Herons - Canada Geese - Mandarin Ducks - Peregrine Falcons
Where can we book our canoe trip?
There are several excellent canoe hire companies nearby, including:
- Wye Adventures
- YOFI Paddlesports (perfect for hourly rentals)
- River Wye Canoe Hire
Is there an age restriction?
Minimum ages vary between operators, but many don't allow children under four years old. Always check with your chosen provider before booking.
Our tip: The stretch between Kerne Bridge and Symonds Yat is one of our favourite sections of the River Wye, with peaceful woodland scenery, abundant wildlife and plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic.
Free River Wye Paddle Guides (PDF Downloads):
I have my own kayak/ canoe/ paddleboard, where can I launch? Here are some of the most popular public launch points on the River Wye.
Ross on Wye: Landing at ramp on left bank 100m below the Hope and Anchor pub. Wheelchair accessible ramped access. No permission required. Car parking nearby.
Kerne Bridge: Landing at steps on left bank 800m below road bridge. Wheelchair accessible ramped access. Picnic site and car park. No permission required.
Lower Lydbrook: Landing on left bank at the steps to the picnic site and car park. Launching for individuals but NOT groups. Donations requested in honesty box.
Symonds Yat West: Landing and launching from the steps on right bank about 1km upstream of rapids. Car parking. Fee payable. Landing at Ye Olde Ferrie Inne on right bank, permission required (01600 890 232).
Symonds Yat East: Landing and launching from the steps on the left bank at the Wyedean Canoe Centre (01600 890 129). Fee payable. Car parking.
Monmouth: Landing at second set of steps on right immediately downstream of rowing club, by car park. No permission required.
Brockweir: Restored stone landing on left bank just upstream of bridge. Awkward and muddy at low tide. No permission required. Very limited car parking in village. From this point, the river should only be used by experienced canoeists. No landing site at Tintern.
Looking for more things to do near Doward Park Campsite: Puzzlewood
Ready for your River Wye Adventure? Doward Park Campsite is the perfect base for paddling the river Wye. Our woodland campsite provides a peaceful base with spacious pitches, family facilities and easy access to the area's best walks and attractions. Book Now
