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Natural History Tours
Welcome to our ecological programme !
‘Highly recommended! Being on the water for those few hours felt like holiday – no phone, no distractions, just beautiful scenes and a sense of freedom. You get close to cormorants, nesting herons, all types of geese and the banks draped with graceful, beautiful willows that conceal the land that you can imagine you are far from the city.’
Sukey Mookle
Get even closer to nature
Learning about the River Thames
Natural History Tours
Thames Natual History Tour - Downstream
Starting at Kew Bridge, we begin with a thorough safety briefing and an introductory paddleboarding session to ensure your comfort and confidence on the water. Drifting downstream on the ebb tide, we pass Oliver’s Island on our way to Mortlake. Along the journey, you’ll gain a fresh perspective of the river’s vibrant ecosystem, while enjoying the tranquil experience of paddleboarding. This adventure promotes both mental and physical well-being as you connect with nature and uncover the beauty of this historic waterway.
Our second Natural History tour invites you to paddle upstream, where you’ll experience the river’s final untouched stretch. Beginning at Kew Bridge, we embark on the flood tide, taking in the charm of Brentford and the peaceful Lots Aits island before reaching the impressive Syon Reach. At Syon Reach, the grandeur of Syon House, with its stunning 18th – century architecture and rich history, provides a captivating stop. Continuing on, we explore Isleworth Ait, a prehistoric site where the river’s boatbuilding heritage and the stories of a once-thriving island pub come to life. Along the way, we’ll also share insights into climate change and evolving flood risk assessments, deepening your understanding of the river’s dynamic ecosystem.
- Not suitable for beginners
- Intermediate paddlers only
- Must have paddled on the Thames before
- Learn the history of the Thames
- Explore the wildlife
- Get in touch with nature
- Suitable for those who completed Natural Hist Tour for Beginners
Natural History Tours
Thames Natural History Intermediate
This three-hour guided tour on a high tide is suitable for confident paddlers who have paddled on the tidal Thames with Active360 before. On a journey from Kew Bridge towards Richmond and beyond you will get a few tips regarding your paddleboarding skills but the main focus of this trip is to explore wildlife, learn about Thames’ history and ecology. It is very much a paddle and a chat type of journey. How far you get depends on the tide and weather conditions on the day and the group’s ability.Â
- Not suitable for beginners
- Intermediate paddlers only
- Must have paddled on the Thames before
- Learn the history of the Thames
- Explore the wildlife
- Get in touch with nature
- Suitable for those who completed Natural Hist Tour for Beginners
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