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£0.00 (inc. VAT)
SOLD OUT.
Unfortunately, our free Kayak Taster Sessions are now fully booked. If you’d like to see join us for a taster session this Summer, click here. Tickets start at just £8.
Take your first strokes on the water and learn how to kayak on Birmingham’s canals, right outside of the Roundhouse on our 150th Birthday Weekend.
And if you enjoy this free taster, come and experience another one of our kayaking tours and see the city differently.
This is the only time this experience will be FREE all year. You don’t want to miss out.
Suitable for almost everyone, this kayak taster is led by our experienced instructors. 8 years plus, all under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is recommended. Drop in availability is very limited.
Join us for a FREE kayaking taster session during our 150th Birthday weekend.
Fancy trying something new, or wanting to give kayaking a go before committing to the full tour? Maybe you’re short on time? Our Kayaking Taster Session could be just what you are looking for! Party hats optional, but heavily encouraged.
Our instructors will get you on the water safely and teach you everything you need to know to get paddling around confidently. We’ll teach you how to paddle, how to get on (and off) the water, and you’ll learn how to control the kayak. The tour is led by a professionally qualified British Canoeing Instructor.
You’ll be on the water for over 30 minutes but allow up to an hour for the full session which includes kitting up, safety briefing and instructions.
You don’t need any kayaking experience, specialist clothing or equipment – but a basic level of fitness (walking up the stairs without being out of breath) will ensure you can enjoy our kayak experience.
All kayaks, paddles and safety equipment are provided. You must wear a buoyancy aid, regardless of your swimming ability, so you’ll be safe if you fall in. Just sit back, paddle and have fun!
Booking is recommended. Drop in availability is very limited.
What’s included:
What happens on the day:
What about the weather?: Guided tours will go ahead in all but the worst of weather. If we need to cancel the tour due to high winds or thunderstorms, we will reschedule at the earliest opportunity.
What should I wear?: Gym-style clothing is best because these won’t hold any water when wet. Everyone must wear footwear; old trainers, crocs, flip flops are all great.
Great for: Celebrating our birthday with us! Having a go, trying something new, building paddle confidence, practicing for a full tour.
Come for a free paddle and celebrate our birthday with us. This is the only time this experience will be free all year!
Dates: Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May.
Time-slots: 10:00am-11:00am, 11:00am-12:00pm, 12:00am-1:00pm, 2:00pm-3:00pm and 3:30pm-4:30pm.
Meeting Point: Please check in at the Roundhouse Visitor Centre on arrival, 15 minutes before your session starts.
Directions: View our Getting here page for detailed directions.
Duration: From introductions through to a chat at the end, you should allow around one hour for this guided experience, with about 30 minutes on the water.
Suitable For: 8 years plus, all under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult. Maximum weight: 18 stone.
Visitor Information
Guided tours will go ahead in all but the worst of weather. If we do need to cancel a tour due to high winds or thunderstorms we will reschedule at the earliest opportunity.
Please provide proof of your eligibility for concessions or discounts on arrival.
Spectators are welcome.
What to wear: It is best to wear gym-style clothing because these won’t hold any water when wet; jeans, leather and wool are not ideal for kayaking. Everyone must wear footwear; old trainers, crocs, flip flops are all great.
You’ll get a wet lower half, as you are exposed to the drips from your paddles and splashes. You may get a small puddle in your seat, so we'd recommend wearing some waterproof trousers if you have them. If you don’t own any, we do have some waterproof trousers and jackets available to borrow.
There's a small chance you may fall in, so we recommend bringing a towel and a change of clothes, just in case. Should you be unlucky enough to fall in, we have an onsite shower.
What to bring:
We have lockers available for your bags, and we recommend that no valuables are brought to the Roundhouse. We strongly recommend that no phones, wallets or sunglasses are taken on the water and we will not be held responsible for any loss incurred.
Food/drink:
Looking for something to eat and drink after your tour? Ticket holders receive 20% off food at The Distillery pub and 10% off food and drink at Ristorante Caffe Arena. Discount is valid on the day of your tour on production of your ticket.
Booking is recommended.
Alternatively, you’re welcome to bring a packed lunch to eat in our courtyard.
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We are an accredited British Canoeing Delivery Partner.
You want to know that the centre you choose is high quality, and that’s what the Delivery Partner badge means. A paddling centre displaying the British Canoeing Delivery Partner badge has agreed to the Delivery Partner Charter. This means the paddling centre has agreed to high standards of safety, value for money and customer service.
The badge is an indication to schools, parents and other customers that the partner takes its responsibilities seriously. They will use highly trained, qualified and competent staff, to deliver a high-quality customer focused product.
Venue: The Roundhouse
Directions: 1 Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE
Please get in touch with us to organise a group booking.
Alternatively please visit our Group Booking Page for more information on how to make a booking enquiry.
The Roundhouse, 1 Sheepcote St, Birmingham, B16 8AE
0121 716 4077
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Registered Charity No. 1169232
