BARROW UPON SOAR KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Explorer: Two Hours Paddling the River Soar from Barrow-upon-Soar
A two-hour kayaking outing on the River Soar that can be run guided or self-guided; this guide distills what’s included, the route experience, and who should book.
Explorer: Two Hours Paddling the River Soar from Barrow-upon-Soar.
Set out from Barrow-upon-Soar for a compact, two-hour kayak exploration of the River Soar. The outing covers stretches of Leicestershire’s largest river where paddlers encounter quiet countryside, riverine wildlife and the working features of the watercourse — weirs and locks — whether they choose to travel independently or with an experienced guide.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Focused Soar Expedition
Two hours on the River Soar gives a concentrated taste of Leicestershire’s waterways, moving past countryside and river features while offering time to practise basic navigation and handling.
Self-Guided or Guided
Participants can choose to explore in their own group or take a guided trip with an experienced leader, allowing flexibility for different comfort and skill levels.
Weirs, Locks and Riverside Wildlife
The route highlights include weirs and locks and stretches of countryside where paddlers can observe the river’s natural life and the features hidden along the banks.
What the day feels like
What the two hours feel like
Begin at the Barrow-upon-Soar meeting point, receive a safety briefing, kit up with the provided kayak, buoyancy aid and paddle, then push off. Over the next two hours the pace is driven by the group: quiet, observational stretches through countryside punctuated by technical spots at weirs and locks. The outing is compact and focused — enough time to get comfortable on the river and to take in the natural and engineered features that define the Soar.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should take care.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator provides the kayak, buoyancy aid and paddle and conducts a safety briefing; plan to wear appropriate river clothing.
Included in the outing: kayak, buoyancy aid, paddle and a safety briefing prior to launch.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Explorer kayaking trip?
The trip runs for two hours.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting location is Barrow-upon-Soar.
Can I go self-guided or do I need a guide?
You can choose to paddle in your own group (self-guided) or take a guided trip with an experienced leader.
What is included in the price?
The price includes the kayak, buoyancy aid, paddle and a safety briefing.
Are there age rules or child rates?
Children aged 5–17 are charged at child rates; however, bookings can only be made by persons 18 years old or over.
What are the rates for self-guided and guided trips?
Self-guided rates are £35 for adults (18–64) and £30 for children (5–17). Guided-trip rates are £50 for adults (18–64) and £45 for children (5–17).