BEAULIEU GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Santa by Canoe: A Christmas Paddle Along the Beaulieu River
A guided, 90-minute family paddle on the Beaulieu River where children meet Santa on the water and each child receives a special gift.
Santa by Canoe: A Christmas Paddle Along the Beaulieu River.
Wrap up warm and head to the tranquil Beaulieu River for a short, guided winter paddle that trades tinsel for river mist: families glide along quiet water, take in crisp winter views, and meet Father Christmas afloat for a moment that turns a simple canoe trip into a seasonal memory.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A gentle, scenic paddle on the Beaulieu River
This is a calm, family-oriented 90-minute canoeing experience guided along the Beaulieu River, offering an accessible introduction to paddling in a picturesque winter setting.
Meet Santa on the water
Children aboard the Christmas Canoe will encounter Santa paddling on the river and receive a special gift—an unusual, festive twist that makes this paddle memorable for families.
Friendly, family-focused guidance
The trip is led by experienced guides from New Forest Activities who outfit participants and steer the paddle to keep the outing safe and welcoming for all ages.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
After check-in at the riverside launch, guides fit you out and you set off on a relaxed, guided canoe route. The group moves at an easy pace down the Beaulieu River for about 90 minutes, watching for the moment Santa appears on the water to hand out presents to the children, before returning to the launch for photos and a warm wrap-up.
THE ROUTE
A gentle, scenic paddle on the Beaulieu River
This is a calm, family-oriented 90-minute canoeing experience guided along the Beaulieu River, offering an accessible introduction to paddling in a picturesque winter setting.
THE EXPERIENCE
Meet Santa on the water
Children aboard the Christmas Canoe will encounter Santa paddling on the river and receive a special gift—an unusual, festive twist that makes this paddle memorable for families.
THE GUIDES
Friendly, family-focused guidance
The trip is led by experienced guides from New Forest Activities who outfit participants and steer the paddle to keep the outing safe and welcoming for all ages.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits best.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Warm, weather-appropriate clothing and extra layers; waterproofs; gloves, hat and scarf; water bottle or flask and snacks if desired; camera to capture the moment with Santa.
Prepare for chilly winter conditions—dress in layers, bring waterproof outerwear, and ensure children have hats and gloves.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Christmas Canoe paddle?
The experience is a 90-minute guided paddle on the Beaulieu River.
Where do we meet for the trip?
Meet at Baileys Hard, Beaulieu, Hampshire SO42 7YF for check-in and equipment fitting.
Will the children meet Santa?
Yes—Santa appears on the water during the paddle and gives a special gift to each child.
Is the trip guided?
Yes. The canoe paddle is led by friendly, knowledgeable guides from New Forest Activities who provide equipment and direction.
What should we bring?
Bring warm, weather-appropriate clothing, waterproofs, hat, gloves and scarf, a water bottle or flask, snacks if desired, and a camera to capture the moment.
Who is the trip suitable for?
The event is family-focused and welcomes participants of all ages.