Paddle sport taster courses for 2026
- Apr 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 21
We are running our latest series of paddle sport introduction courses for 2026
From April to June

Who is it for?
This course is designed for new or novice paddlers wanting the opportunity to try out paddling and learn basic skills awarness of safety, and familiarise yourself with the club and some of its members. It also gives you the opportunity to work out what kind of paddling is for you, be it Canadian canoes, leisure kayaking, racing or paddle boarding.
This taster session gives you the chance to try out paddling in different craft before committing to the Discover courses.
Dates
We currently have 2 dates available with 12 places on each day. Places will be allocated on a 1st come basis.
Actual timings and dates maybe subject to change due to weather conditions etc.
Saturday - May 16th - 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday - June 14th - 9.00am-1.00pm
Cost
The cost of the course is £40 pp
Payment by BACS to be made before the course.
Prices may be modified for couples/families who wish to participate.
Please email courses@newburycanoeclub.co.uk to discuss
Criteria
18yrs or over
Children above the age of 14 will be allowed on the course if accompanied by parent/carer
You must be able to swim 50m in light clothing (without a buoyancy aid)
No previous experience is required
What should I bring?
Please wear suitable clothing for being in the water.
Wet shoes/neoprene wet socks if you have them. Light pumps will work as long as they are ok to get wet. Leggings/shorts (appropriate for the weather), t-shirt, long or short sleeved, windproof jacket and thin but warm tops/trousers.
It is better to have a few thin layers rather than one thick layer·
You may get wet, please bring a change of clothes
Please bring water and energy snacks (Water refills from NCC kitchen and warm drinks)
What's Provided:
Kayak/Candadian Canoe
Paddle
Buoyancy Aid
What you will get from this course
Paddle UK 'Start' award
How do I book?
Register via the events link on the home page https://www.newburycanoeclub.co.uk/
On confirmation of registration make payment via BACS of £40
Account name: Newbury Canoe Club
Sort Code: 30-95-89
Account Number: 45987168
Reference <START surname>
Cancellation
If you are unable to attend the course you may cancel up to 5 days prior to the date by emailing.
You will have the option of rearranging for an alternative date upon availability, or receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 5 days a refund will only be made if we are able to fill your space. You may transfer your place with a friend.
Becoming a paddler
We encourage all paddlers to obtain a British Canoeing On the Water membership where you can register your awards, which includes a waterways licence and insurance to paddle over 4,500km of river navigations and canals across England and Wales.
If you wish to further your paddling skills, the club run a series of course's throughout the summer. In addition there are trips, evening and weekend paddling sessions you can join to get more experience in a supportive environment.
As a member of NCC you will get to continue developing your paddling skills, meet other like-minded members and become part of our growing paddling community. You will be able to use club equipment or store your own.
For all course enquiries please email courses@newburycanoeclub.co.uk
To explore other course available go to https://www.newburycanoeclub.co.uk/
For more information regarding British Canoeing awards go to
For all other information regarding British Canoeing and its membership, they are now rebranded as Paddle UK



