Frequently asked questions

What should I wear?

During the summer we recommend quick drying activewear. No jeans or cotton please, as cotton gets cold and heavy when wet. If you have a summer wetsuit, please feel free to bring it along.

For winter paddling you must wear a winter wetsuit or drysuit.

Is the river safe to swim in?

That’s really your call. The quality of our local waterways is something to always be aware of. There are plenty of wild & open water swimmers who take the plunge all year round. But please do your own research.

Paddle Up do ask participants to cover up any minor cuts and abrasions, and to wash once home if you fall in the river, this is to reduce the risk of weil's disease. If you have any open wounds please do not participate and contact us to reschedule your paddle.

If you feel unwell after your paddle, please contact your doctor and explain that you have been in the river.

What months are you open?

Our summer season runs from April - September (weather dependant).

Does Paddle Up supply wetsuits?

We have 5 mm winter wetsuits for customers to use. They are mandatory during the winter months and they must be requested in advance.

In the high season wetsuits are not so necessary however you might want to consider wearing your own summer shorty.

Do you have parking?

We are mobile and we will provide you with a location of where to meet.

Minimum age?

Suitable for ages 12+ however anyone under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied in the session by a parent / guardian 21 years and over.

Please contact us if you are enquiring about anyone under 12 as we do have one small jnr board.

Must be one adult per child on the water.

Will I fall in?

It’s likely. It is a watersport after all. Come with the same attitude that you would to a surfing lesson. Bring a change of warm dry clothes and a towel.

What’s your cancellation policy?

Read the cancellation policy in full here.

What if it’s raining?

If it’s just cloud and rain then we stay open, and you will not be entitled to reschedule or a refund. However if weather or river conditions are unsafe to paddle on, then we reserve the right to either rearrange, change location, or refund you onto a voucher.

Unsafe conditions include extreme wind/gusts and lightning forecasts. We follow the Environment Agency advice and will not operate if the river is on a red or yellow warning. You can check river conditions here.

Do you have changing / toilet facilities?

We are mobile therefore do not have facilities. Please come dressed ready to SUP and be prepared to meet us on the river bank.

Do you have a place for my personal belongings?

Not as such. As mentioned, we are mobile and meet on the river bank. However we do have dry bags and phone cases available so you can keep your belongings on you. Alternatively leave them at home or in your car.

We can store your belongings in the Paddle Up van, however we are in no way responsible for your belongings.

How many people on one board?

One adult per board. Maximum weight of approx 140 kg. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding this.

Must I be able to swim?

Yes. A basic level of water confidence is required and we ask that you can swim a minimum of 50m unaided.

I’m running late!

You must arrive 10 min early to your booking and you must come ready. Please read your booking confirmation email to find out exactly what time you're expected to arrive.

Please do not be late to your booking. If you are late, we will try our best to accommodate you; however we reserve the right to turn you away, and you will not be entitled to a refund.

What if I damage Paddle Up equipment?

Paddle Up reserves the right to charge for damaged or lost equipment. See Terms and Conditions for more information.

Can I SUP whilst pregnant?

We regret to ask you not to book a paddle session with us if you are pregnant and new to stand up paddle boarding. Please email us if you would like to discuss further.

Are dogs allowed?

Unfortunately not unless pre-agreed or stated otherwise.

Are you insured and licensed?

We are fully insured and licensed. However it is strongly suggested that you carry your own personal accident policy that covers you for watersports / paddle boarding. If you are using your own board, it is your responsibility to have your own waterways license.

Please drop us an email if you haven't found what you're looking for: info@paddleup.co.uk