Canoe and Wild Camp on the River Medway

A slice of wilderness, open fires and Tipi wild camping.

The plan

Two day canoe and wild camp adventure. Enjoy the majestic tranquillity of the Medway river. Once out of Tonbridge we paddle through the meadows of the Medway Valley, with no roads in sight. The quiet pace of the river is perfect for observing nature and wildlife on the river. You can also fly down through the locks on the river using the canoe passes to give you a short burst of white water.

Camp on a river island in a Tipi with a wood burning stove to heat the space and and an open fire. If you feel more adventurous you can sleep under a tarp. Share an evening meal cooked over the fire to give you energy for the next day's paddle. A chance to stargaze and experience the splendour of nature away from the lights and noise of the city.

Learn basic canoeing skills and also the lore of camp craft, from knot tying to fire lighting with feather sticks.

The Paddling

No experience necessary but some level of fitness recommended. Day one is 13km which takes around 5 hours of paddling with a break for lunch. Day two is 15km which takes around 6 hours of paddling with a break for lunch.

What is included

All meals, so lunch and supper on Saturday, breakfast and lunch on Sunday, and energy snacks.

All canoeing and camping equipment including canoes, buoyancy aids, paddles, waterproof jackets if needed, dry bags to keep your personal things in and sleeping bags and thermarests.

What to bring and what to wear

Comfortable active wear for paddling. Warm jumper and hat for the evening. Overnight bag. Water bottle.

Start point

Tonbridge station, Kent. Finish at Maidstone station, Kent.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Tonbridge Railway Station (Stop H), Barden Rd, Tonbridge, United Kingdom