We run introductory Learn to Kayak courses throughout the warmer months. These courses are open to anyone aged 8 and over who would like to learn how to paddle a kayak. Our qualified coaches will guide you through the fundamentals of kayaking using our racing kayaks.
No previous experience is required – our courses are suitable for complete beginners. As all sessions take place on the water, participants must be able to swim at least 25 metres.
You will primarily use flat-water river craft during the course. We usually start beginners in very stable boats and, as your confidence and skills develop, you may progress to a more racing-style kayak when ready. We also have surf skis, which are similar to touring kayaks and are particularly stable.
We do not normally use Canadian canoes as part of our Learn to Kayak courses. However, if you are interested in learning about Canadian canoeing, please contact us and we can arrange a more bespoke session.
Course Structure & Cost
What will you learn?
During the course, you will learn a range of essential kayaking skills to help you move confidently and safely on the water. While sessions are adapted to suit the needs of participants, a typical course will cover:
To find out more, fill in the form below.
We offer open days and a wide range of courses for all abilities and ages.
Click on the green course button below and go directly to the relevant dates.
(Dates may be adjusted depending on coach availability and other club activities.)
Please select the tab to see the dates for the different course
These courses are suitable for everyone, including adults and juniors aged 8 and over, and are ideal for friends, families or
individuals who would like to learn kayaking together. The sessions are designed for complete beginners and focus on building confidence on the water, developing basic paddling skills, and learning essential water safety in a fun and supportive environment.
The course costs £60 for three 2-hour sessions, which includes all equipment, qualified coaching, use of club facilities, and two free club sessions after the course to help you decide whether you would like to continue paddling and join the club.
| Course | Dates | Times |
| Saturdays | 25th April, 2nd May, 9th May 13th June, 20th June, 27th June 29th August, 5th September, 12th September | 12.30-14.30 |
| Easter Holidays | 4th April – 6th April | 10.00 – 12.00 |
These courses are for juniors aged 8-17 and run during the school holidays. They offer a great opportunity for children to learn about water safety, make new friends, and have fun during the holidays.
The courses cost £60 for three 2- hour sessions, which includes all equipment, coaching, use of club facilities, and two free club sessions after the course to see if your child would like to join our canoe club.
| Courses | Dates | Times |
| Easter Holidays | 8th April – 10th April | 10-12 |
| May Half Term | 25th – 27th May | 10-12 |
| Early Summer Holidays | 20th July – 22nd July | 10-12 |
| Summer Holidays | 12th August – 14th August | 10-12 |
Our Thursday courses are for adults aged 18 and over and are ideal for beginners looking to learn the basics of kayaking in a relaxed and supportive environment. The course focuses on building confidence on the water, developing key paddling skills, and learning essential water safety.
The course costs £60 for three 2-hour sessions, which includes all equipment, qualified coaching, use of club facilities, and two free club sessions after the course to help you decide whether you would like to join the club and continue paddling.
| Courses | Dates | Times |
| Thursday Evenings | 7th May, 14th May & 21st May | 1730-1930 |
| Thursday Evenings | 2nd July, 9th July & 16th July | 1730-1930 |
| Thursday Evenings | 3rd September, 10th September & 17th September | 1730-1930 |
Looking for something to dowith the kids during the holidays? Look no further! Our family courses are a fantastic holiday activity for the whole family, offering a fun and relaxed way to get out on the water together while learning the basics of kayaking in a safe and supportive environment.
The courses cost £60 for three 2-hour sessions, which includes all equipment, coaching, use of club facilities, and two free club sessions after the course to see if you would like to join our canoe club.
| Courses | Dates | Times |
| Easter Holidays | 8th April – 10th April | 1400 – 1600 |
| May Half Term | 25th May – 27th May | 1400 – 1600 |
| Early Summer Holiday | 20th July – 22nd July | 1400 – 1600 |
| Summer Holidays | 12th August – 14th August | 1400 – 1600 |
Kayaking is for all ages, and we aim to encourage as many people as possible to get out on the water in a safe and comfortable environment.
We run taster sessions and courses specifically for those aged 60 and over.
Participants can try a variety of paddling craft, from stand-up paddleboards and canoes to stable racing kayaks. Sessions are relaxed and participant-led, progressing at a pace that reflects how comfortable each individual feels.
We don’t currently have any courses scheduled. If you’d like to register your interest, please contact Louise at [email protected].
Looking for an action-packed way for your child to spend the school holidays – one that can flexibly fit around your work week or other holiday plans?
Our Junior Day Courses are the perfect choice!
Each day runs for 5 hours and combines kayaking, fun games, and skill-building sessions in a safe and supportive environment. We offer four different day courses each week, and no two days are the same. Children can attend 1, 2, 3, or all 4 days, so you can mix and match to suit your
family’s schedule. A single day costs £50, which includes all equipment, expert coaching, and full use of club facilities.
Book all four days for just £175 and give your child a full week of water-filled fun!
| Courses | Dates | Times |
| April | 13th, 14th, 15th & 16th (Monday to Thursday) | 1000 – 1500 |
| June | 8th, 9th, 11th & 12th (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday) | 1000 – 1500 |
| July (1) | 13th, 14th, 16th & 17th (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday) | 1000 – 1500 |
| July (2) | 27th, 28th, 30th & 31st (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday) | 1000 – 1500 |
| August | 24th, 25th, 27th & 28th (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday) | 1000 – 1500 |
We provide all the necessary equipment, including boats, paddles, and buoyancy aids.
For paddling, we recommend wearing thin, skin-tight layers. If the weather is colder, please add extra layers. We suggest bringing:
We have changing facilities on site, including showers.
After completing the course, you are invited to attend two of our club sessions free of charge.
Our regular club sessions take place:
If you’d like to continue paddling after this, you can become a member of the club.
For more information, please email Louise at [email protected] or use the contact details at the top of the page.
🛶 Save the Date: July 26–27, 2025 Norwich Canoe Club is delighted to announce that we will be hosting the British Canoeing National Marathon Championships once again on Saturday 26th
Last weekend 23 Norwich paddlers came home with an impressive haul of 16 National Championship medals. We didn’t have to wait long for our first medal, Kamila Sklenarova winning Silver
On Father’s Day Norwich Canoe Club went into the last Hasler race knowing a top 4 finish would be enough for qualification for the Hasler Final. We were blessed with
