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2 hours
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Join our small group paddleboard (SUP) experience, and paddle on one of the most beautiful and safest stretches of the Thames, accompanied by one of our friendly and fully qualified coaches.
Perfect for complete beginners, improvers looking to move to the next level, or experienced paddlers wanting to hone their paddle technique. There's no pressure and no judgement!
Who is this for?
Our lessons are open to paddlers of all abilities, from complete beginners, to those who have paddled many times before - we guarantee that everyone will learn something new and leave with a smile on their face - and a photo or two taken by our instructors!
Children over 14 are welcome if they are accompanied on the water by a parent or legal guardian.
Where will I paddle?
You will be paddling round the hidden islands at Richmond and then upstream past historic Richmond Bridge towards Eel Pie Island and Teddington, with stunning views of open countryside and Richmond Hill.
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You do not need to be a proficient swimmer, but should be comfortable with falling into water while wearing a buoyancy aid.
A certain level of flexibility and ability to get up to standing from kneeling is required for learning to paddleboard.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You will be using our paddleboard and paddle. Buoyancy aids are provided and are compulsory on all our sessions.
Bottled water
After we have kitted you out, we will provide a safety briefing and some land-based training on the riverbank near Richmond Bridge. This typically takes 15-20 minutes depending on group size, and is part of the overall session time. We will then head out onto the river, either upstream towards Eel Pie Island and Teddington or downstream towards Richmond Lock, Isleworth, Kew Gardens and Chiswick, depending on the tide. We will return to our launch point at the end of the session. *You can expect to be paddling on the water for 90-105 minutes *The distance actually covered will depend on wind and tide conditions on the day.
11 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Topmann,
Aug 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Enjoyable and instructive afternoon….Suzanne and Peter are excellent coaches and Richmond waterfront a perfect setting to tryout. Had great if eventful time on the paddle board and will repeat soon!
Daydream65425933284,
Aug 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an amazing time on our first paddle experience , and stayed dry too ! will be looking at doing it all over again soon !
N7238NTjoannah,
Jul 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Myself, daughter and dog Roxy had a lovely time, even saw the seal. Sophy really looked after us and was great, thank you!
Lisa G,
Jul 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a fantastic 2 hours - mix of technical top tips and a mini safari along the Thames from Teddington to Twickenham. Perfect morning!
366annier,
Jul 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Really fun two hours, although absolutely exhausted by the end. Loved seeing the birds nesting in the river. Peter was very knowledgeable and understood that I just wanted a positive first time experience.

christopherjW7529XW,
Jun 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great experience with Richmond SUP. Lovely day on the water. Nigel was a good and fun instructor. Learnt more of paddle boarding and definitely got the bug for it now.
C8108MAmarym,
Jun 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic day out learning to paddle board. Our instructor Nigel was clear, patient and knowledgeable and made it fun at the same time. We paddled on the River Thames for approximately two hours, learning out to stop, turn and different methods on the way. Paddling over waves and against the wind we made our way around a couple of the islands steering away from other boats. Fun day and totally recommend!
Dreamer35155145820,
Jun 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
A wonderful afternoon learning to paddle on the river Thames with my daughter. Thanks to Sarah for much useful tuition and advice for a complete beginner!
niamhcull7,
May 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
A huge thank you Sarah for a brilliant paddle on the Thames! I learned so much in the two hours and you were a fantastic teacher!
lindadH3018VL,
May 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had a lovely day of paddle boarding with the family. Staff were accommodating & professional. Kids had a blast and are already pestering me to come and do it all over again! Highly recommend x
Operated by Paddle Richmond