Kayaking in Nottingham: Trent, Canals & Local Tips
Kayaking in Nottingham: the best places to explore
Kayaking in Nottingham offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
Having been to Nottingham many times ourselves (mostly for cricket actually), we feel well positioned to not only write this article, but to fully stand behind any recommendations that lie within.
Whether you’re exploring the majestic River Trent, the tranquil Nottingham and Beeston Canal, or the meandering River Soar, there’s something for every kayaker here in Nottingham.
This article highlights the best spots, sights, and essential tips to enhance your kayaking adventure in Nottingham.
So, grab your paddle, and let’s dive in!
Which Nottingham paddle should you choose?
- Beginner session: a booked lagoon activity at the National Water Sports Centre.
- City exploring: the Nottingham and Beeston Canal, with locks portaged.
- River outing: a researched Trent or Soar section suited to the day’s flow and your experience.
The River Trent
The River Trent is a grand majestic river that winds through the southern edges of Nottingham city. The Trent is expansive and offers serene beauty to complement an exhilarating kayaking experience.
The Trent around Nottingham offers lovely river scenery. At Holme Pierrepont, distinguish the managed lagoon sessions from the white-water course and the River Trent itself; these are very different paddles.
The stretch from Gunthorpe to Sawley offers plenty to see, but it is a substantial river journey with multiple locks and weirs. Plot the particular section and all portages before setting off, rather than treating it as a short 20 km outing.
Around Beeston and the River Soar confluence, use current route information to plan which navigation channel and portage to take.
The Nottingham and Beeston Canal
The Nottingham and Beeston Canal is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
This canal stretches through the heart of Nottingham, providing a unique perspective of the city. Key attractions along this route include the historic Nottingham Castle that you can catch glimpses of from the water.
We recommend a stop at the Canalhouse Pub for some refreshments along the way. Navigating the canal is straightforward, but it’s essential to watch for low bridges and narrow passages. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid the busiest periods and enjoy a peaceful paddle.
What can you see from the water?
Kayaking in Nottingham offers a visual feast of iconic landmarks and natural beauty.
As you paddle, you’ll see Nottingham Castle standing proudly on its promontory, a sight to behold from the water. The lush greenery of the surrounding parks and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife, such as kingfishers and herons, add to the charm.
Historical sites like the Trent Bridge and old industrial buildings tell the story of Nottingham’s rich past. Each stroke of your paddle reveals more of the city’s hidden gems, making every trip a new adventure.
There are plenty of quirky buildings and protected wetlands along the way and of course, as you’d expect in any city, some uninspiring industrial areas to paddle through.
The River Soar
The River Soar, though less known than the Trent, is a gem for kayakers. Starting points like the Loughborough Basin (about 20kms south of Nottingham) or the picturesque Zouch village offer scenic routes perfect for all skill levels.
One of the navigational challenges on the River Soar is the presence of weirs and locks.
However, with proper planning and local advice, these can be managed safely. The river’s calm and meandering nature makes it a favourite for those seeking a more relaxed kayaking experience.
Do you need a waterways licence?
In Nottingham, a kayak licence is required for most waterways, including the River Trent and the Nottingham and Beeston Canal.
You can obtain cover through the Canal & River Trust or an applicable paddling membership. Our UK kayak licence guide explains the choices. Permission to launch and rules on privately managed waters are separate.
Paddling with the University of Nottingham
Last trip to Nottingham I was speaking to some Uni student who told me that Nottingham University offers numerous opportunities for kayaking enthusiasts as the university frequently organises kayaking events and training programs, catering to both novices and experienced paddlers.
Being part of the university’s kayaking community (should you live or be studying in Nottingham) provides not only physical benefits but also mental relaxation, enhancing the overall university experience. The camaraderie among the university paddlers is something we at Kayak Mad always admire.
Local canoe and kayak clubs
Joining a kayak club in Nottingham is a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and improve your skills.
Clubs like the Nottingham Kayak Club (beside Nottingham Forest FC) and the University of Nottingham Canoe Club offer structured training sessions, social events, and competitive opportunities. Choosing the right club depends on your goals—whether you’re looking for casual paddling partners or aiming to compete in local races. Club memberships often come with the added benefit of access to club equipment and facilities.
Kayak hire and equipment
For those without their own equipment, the National Water Sports Centre’s lagoon kayaking sessions offer a managed option with equipment. Check the current booking, age and swimming requirements rather than assuming the marina operates public kayak hire.
Rental costs vary, with options for hourly or daily rates. When hiring a kayak, ensure it fits your skill level and comfort. We, at Kayak Mad, always recommend checking the condition of the equipment and asking for safety advice before heading out.
For any Kayak Kit you simply cannot go past the awesome Flow Kayak Shop in the trade park on Clark Rd.
Before you launch
Safety on the River Trent is paramount. Always wear a life jacket and check the weather forecast before heading out.
The river can be deceptively calm but can change quickly, so stay vigilant. As we mentioned before there are weirs where portage will likely be required so plan before you paddle.
For another city-and-cricket combination, our Birmingham paddling guide explores its canal network and nearby options.
Our final thoughts
Well there you have it guys, we’ve Kayaked in Nottingham a few times when we’ve been up for the cricket, and we love the place.
The community here is great (well that’s been our experience) and we love the city as a whole so can highly recommend that you have a go kayaking about the place yourself if in the area.
We hope you enjoyed our little article and if you’d like to know more about us do contact us and please consider reading more of our articles HERE.
Many thanks and happy paddling everyone!
I’m Mark, enthusiastic paddler and owner of Kayak Mad! Find out more about me and Kayak Mad.
FAQs: kayaking in Nottingham
Can beginners kayak on the River Trent?
A suitable supervised river session can be an option, but beginners should not assume every Trent section is calm. The National Water Sports Centre’s managed lagoon is another way to get started.
What is the best time of year for kayaking in Nottingham?
Spring and summer offer longer days and often warmer weather, while autumn brings lovely colours. Check current river levels and weather; season alone does not guarantee gentle flow.
Are there guided kayaking sessions in Nottingham?
The National Water Sports Centre offers introductory sessions, and local clubs provide training and organised paddling. Check current programmes and membership requirements.
What should I wear for kayaking in Nottingham?
Wear a suitable buoyancy aid and clothing for the water temperature as well as the weather. Take a change of clothes and follow your instructor’s kit advice for a booked session.
Is night kayaking allowed in Nottingham?
Check the rules for your exact waterway, access point and any lighting requirements. Night paddling needs appropriate navigation and recovery skills, so it is not the best first outing for a beginner.
