Welcome to Cotswold Canoe Hire!

Our Story

"Welcome to Cotswold canoe Hire, your premier destination for River Thames canoe hire, kayak rentals, and paddle board hire. As a friendly family business, we're passionate about providing unforgettable experiences on the magnificent River Thames.

Our story is built on my passion for using blue spaces to connect. Connect to nature, sport and each other, without boundaries. Perfectly based on the Thames, we provide a gateway to adventure and tranquility, where people can bond and create lasting memories. We also provide exclusive trips for those wanting a unique experience.

We offer one of the best ways to explore the tranquil upper reaches of the Thames, from our base in Lechlade, Cotswolds, through Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and occasionally, when safe, beyond. Discover the beauty of River Thames canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, with us and you will create memories that will last a lifetime

Founded in 2015 by John, with over 40 years of experience in competitive and recreational kayaking, we began with basic hire in Highworth. Today, we've grown into a thriving outdoor water sports venue at the Riverside, Lechlade, nestled in the heart of the stunning Cotswolds.

Under Edith.s vision since 2019, we have been awarded the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award year on year. This achievement is a testament to our dedicated crew and the loyal team of students who return year after year, helping us provide the best canoe, kayak, and paddle board hire services. We also specialise in curating exclusive river trips for small and large groups.

We are a passionate and experienced team, committed to making your Thames river experience truly memorable. Whether you're a first-time paddler or a seasoned enthusiast, you'll always receive a warm welcome. We take pride in our reputation for exceptional customer service, from booking to equipment and safety. Our glowing reviews on TripAdvisor, Google and Facebook speak for themselves, solidifying our position as a top choice for canoe hire Cotswolds, paddle board hire Cotswolds, and unique river adventures.

We can't wait to see you on the water! Whether you're keen to canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or fancy a fun ride on our famous pink flamingo and swan pedalos, we've got you covered. For a truly relaxing experience, try one of our picnic trips on our traditional rowing boats.
Your Adventure Starts Here! 

QUICK LINKS

OUR EQUIPMENT

OUR FLEET

SAFETY INFOMATION

RIVER INFORMATION

Take a ride upon the Thames on one of our famous swans or flamingos. Our pedalos are super stable fun for 2 to 5 people. They have 4 seats but a small child could sit between two adults a the front. If you are nervous about boating or have young lively children then a pedalo is a great family favourite. They are also the perfect exercise for a leg workout!

Regrettably, due to the cleaning involved, we ask that you do not take duck food on our pedalos.

Our traditional rowing boats are the perfect way to enjoy the River Thames at your leisure. Whether you row or choose to relax, it is a peaceful way to head upstream through the willows from our HQ on the River Thames, taking a picnic or a romantic trip for

The boats will take four medium sized adults in weight.

Hire our open Canadian Canoes, for 1 hour, 3  hours, or full day if you turn up on the day. We accept bookings for half day and full day via our booking page. Our canoes are very stable and perfect for the beginner or families, however they can be tricky to paddle on your own. All our canoes have 3 seats.

Combinations with Children:

  • 1 adult and 1 child (not recommended for small children)
  • 2 adults and 1 child ( min age 5)
  • 2 adults and 2 children ( min age is 5, as they will sit side by side on an adult seat)
  • 1 adult and 2 children ( min age 13 for one of the children and who can look after themselves independently)

We have a large selection of kayaks, for juniors, singles, doubles and tourers.

Minimum age 12 in a single kayak. Must be accompanied by an adult in another craft.
Minimum age 5 in a double kayak. Must be accompanied by an adult (18+)

We have a fleet of RED paddle boards for hire. They are super stable and great fun to explore the Thames upstream from our base in Lechlade.

Only one person per board. Minimum age 12 and must be accompanied by an adult on another craft on the river.

Cotswold Canoe Hire Best of the Best 2024 by Trip Advisor

Meet The CREW

Edith - Cotswold Canoe Hire
Edith
Owner
AKA Boss Lady
Most likely to be sassy with a smile.
Carla - Cotswold Canoe Hire
Carla
Summer Crew Veteran
AKA Holiday Hero
Most likely to tell customers fun facts about river creatures
Mollie - Cotswold Canoe Hire
Mollie
Summer Crew Veteran
AKA Service Superstar
Most likely to fall off a paddleboard while doing an Insta story
Jarod - Cotswold Canoe Hire
Jarod
Transport
AKA Land Shark
Most likely to arrive early and have the crews back.
Theo - Cotswold Canoe Hire
Theo
Summer Crew/River Expert
AKA The Compass
Most likely to cycle round the world!
Hugo - Cotswold Canoe Hire
Hugo
Summer Crew
AKA Ruck Star
Most likely to forget a shift, but loves the customer contact!
Billy - Cotswold Canoe Hire
Billy
Summer Crew
AKA Anchor Man
Most likely to be solid.
JC - - Cotswold Canoe Hire
JC

AKA Founding Father
Most likely to be on holiday.

PROTECTING OUR RIVER

Cotswold Canoe Hire is committed to minimising the impact of our paddlesports activities on the environment.

We wish to be able to share the magic of the River Thames while protecting its beauty for generations to come.

We are part of the Cotswold Lakes Trust Habitat Hero Scheme.

How we're helping

We are supporting our community by sourcing locally, partnering with local businesses, and creating jobs within the area.
We minimize our impact by reducing waste, recycling, using eco-friendly products, and conserving energy where we can.
We protect our river by keeping it clean, educating our customers, and supporting organizations that are working to protect the River Thames.
We are working towards educating our community about the importance of wildlife and blue spaces.

How can you help?

Be mindful of your waste. Please take your rubbish with you and recycle where possible.
Respect our river. Leave no Trace. Please do not litter or pollute our wonderful river. Be mindful of the wildlife on the river, livestock on the surrounding fields  and keep a safe distance.
Get involved! Join us for a river clean-up or other sustainability event.
Eat & Drink Locally. The RIverside has a great pub and fantastic cafe, The Tea Chest, There are also some great eateries in Lechlade and small shops where you can buy snacks and drinks to take with you.