wilderness weekends
a slice of adventure in your busy life
Canoe the goring Gap
Paddle down this beautiful river and celebrate in the pub!
Price:
£75 per adult
£45 per child
Duration:
One day
Dates:
Trips being added as we speak....
Start Point: Pangbourne pay and display car park, Thames Avenue, Pangbourne, RG8 7BU
The Plan
Most people think they know the Thames but few have seen the scenic side of it. On this journey, we drift down this meandering monster like flotsam on in the flow. The only thing on our agenda is the slap-up picnic lunch and then maybe what drink to have at the Swan inn when we get to the end.
Thames' association with the industry of London has made it one of the most famous rivers in the world but here in Berkshire it is a gentle green giant which is in no hurry, so why should you be. The fascinating bridges, locks, and buildings you pass will remind you of how hard this river once worked but not today.
The journey starts at the small village of Cholsey and slowly progresses past Moulsford and Goring and finally as far as Pangbourne. There are times that it will seem like you have the whole place to yourself but then a grebe will emerge to remind you who the real locals are. This is the stretch that inspired Kenneth Grahame to write the classic tales "Wind in the Willows". We hope you will be equally inspired.
Tasty lunch is is Wilderness Weekends standard. It's stuffed olives, fine cheese, wraps, homecooked flapjacks, dips, chips and more. You'll love it.
All too soon we round the bend at Pangbourne and our finish looms. It's at this point we suggest tying up outside the uniquely well placed Swan Inn for a relaxing glass whatever takes your fancy to get over the shock.
From the Swan it's a doddle to drift over to your final lock and then on to the take out at Pangbourne village. Your guide will sort all of the logistics and from start to finish. You just go with the flow.
The Paddling
No experience necessary but some level of fitness recommended. The route is 12km which can take around 6 hours of paddling with a break for lunch.
What's included
All canoeing and camping equipment including canoes, buoyancy aids, paddles, waterproof jackets if needed, dry bags to keep your personal things in.
What to bring and what to wear
Comfortable active wear for paddling. Water bottle. Suncream.
Swimming stuff if you fancy a dip.
