PARK BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Family Paddling on the River Dee: A slow, playful paddle from Sandy Lane Park
A 1.5‑hour guided session for families (ages 6+) offering kayaking or stand‑up paddleboarding on the River Dee with a Paddle UK–qualified instructor, practical instruction and on‑water games to build confidence.
Family Paddling on the River Dee: A slow, playful paddle from Sandy Lane Park.
Embark on an exclusive family paddling experience on the River Dee: guided, paced to your group and designed for beginners. The session—led by a Paddle UK–qualified instructor—lets families choose kayaking, stand‑up paddleboarding or a mix, and includes games and simple coaching to help everyone get comfortable on the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A private, family‑focused session
The trip is tailored to your family’s pace and interests, run exclusively for your group and structured around learning, play and nature connection.
Kayak or SUP—your choice
Participants may paddle in kayaks, stand‑up paddleboards or a combination; equipment choice is flexible to suit ages and preferences.
Games and instruction to build confidence
A Paddle UK–qualified instructor provides coaching and on‑water games to make learning to paddle approachable and fun for all ages.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
This is a relaxed, short paddle that prioritises family time and learning: you launch, explore sections of the River Dee that interest you at a gentle pace, and take part in simple coached activities and games so children and adults develop basic paddling skills without pressure.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The session runs for 1.5 hours.
Bring footwear you don’t mind getting wet (old trainers or crocs), a spare set of clothes to change into afterwards and a large towel or changing robe.
Hire of boat, paddle and buoyancy aid is included; the tour is led by an experienced river guide.
Meet at Sandy Lane Park, Chester, CH3 5UL.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages can take part?
Children from ages 6 upwards can join. Tandem kayaks are used for ages 6–9; from age 10 children commonly paddle solo. SUP is suitable from about age 8 upwards.
How long is the session?
The Family Paddling Tour lasts 1.5 hours.
Do I need to bring specialist kit?
No specialist kit is required; bring footwear that can get wet, a spare change of clothes and a large towel or changing robe—boats, paddles and buoyancy aids are provided.
Are non‑swimmers allowed?
Yes. Non‑swimmers are welcome but should identify themselves to the instructor so appropriate precautions and supervision can be arranged.
Will our boats capsize?
The operator’s boats are highly stable and are described as very unlikely to capsize.
Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Sandy Lane Park, Chester, CH3 5UL.