Ride the Waves: 3 Exciting Ways to Celebrate World Rivers Day

Although the UK may not have the vast 6,650-mile-long River Nile, or the mighty Amazon River winding 4,100 miles through the rainforests of South America, we do have some impressive rivers running through our diverse landscape, and they’re certainly worth celebrating.

It’s easy to overlook them, but nearly every country in the world has at least one river flowing through it and each river carries a unique history, purpose, and significance. World Rivers Day, celebrated on September 22nd, aims to remind us of the importance of waterways around the globe. Established in 2005, this day has become not only a celebration of the beauty of rivers but also a reminder to preserve their biodiversity, especially in the face of growing climate challenges.

Many people mark the day by participating in local events, such as litter clean-ups or simply enjoying a walk along their nearest river. But if you’re feeling adventurous, we have three water-based activities to help you experience the beauty of rivers across the UK.

• Enjoy Paddleboarding along a river near you

If you've spent any time by a river this summer, you’ve likely spotted someone paddle boarding. Similar to a surfboard, a paddleboard is a long, flat board designed for standing or kneeling as you use a paddle to navigate. Whether on rivers, lakes, or the ocean, paddleboarders enjoy the serene perspective from the water’s surface.

Not only does a Paddleboarding Experience allow you to explore stunning landscapes from the unique vantage point of a river, but it also provides a full-body workout and a "moving meditation" that helps clear the mind.

Some great UK rivers for paddle boarding which are available when you book with us, include:

• Bristol Avon Valley
• River Leam, Warwickshire
• Auchenreoch Loch, Dumfries
• Llangollen Canal, North Wales
• River Wye, Herefordshire

Kayaking is another fantastic way to experience the beauty of the UK’s rivers. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience, we offer a range of sessions tailored to all skill levels across the country. A Kayaking Experience allows you to see rivers from a fresh perspective while mastering a fun, engaging water sport. Some of our highlights include sessions on the River Derwent in the Peak District, the River Wye in Wales, or the River Brue in Somerset.

Enjoy the calm of the water and discover new rivers through our kayaking sessions, typically available from March to October. With the season nearing its end, now’s the perfect time to book in for an unforgettable experience.