River Journey and Woodland Wild Camp

Voted as one of the ‘Top 52 weekend activities in the World’ by Lonely Planet. Canoe, kayak or SUP down the River Great Ouse, sleep in a teepee in a private riverside woodland and learn camp cooking on the open fire - all just 35 minutes from central London.

Find out more and book your space: www.explorersconnect.com/river-journey-and-woodland-wild-camp

OVERVIEW

Escape for a weekend of paddling and wild camping in rural Bedfordshire, on one of the most beautiful rivers in Britain. Travelling by canoe, kayak and/or stand-up paddle board (SUP), no experience is necessary, you'll start your adventure with coaching from professional instructors learning different paddling techniques before heading off downstream. You'll paddle through Bedford's Victorian embankment and out into miles of pristine river. This stretch is known for otter sightings, kingfishers, herons and loads of other wildlife. Bring your swimming costume for some optional wild swimming and rope swings.

After a half day of paddling you'll arrive at a secluded riverside woodland to enjoy a night wild camping under the stars. Make camp in shared tepees or you can bring your own tent or hammock. As a group you’ll cook a free-range woodland feast over the camp fire, learning some top tips for preparing bush tucker. Then it’s time to relax around the fire and toast marshmallows.

Day two starts with a campfire breakfast, you'll then return to the water and learn new skills ready to put them to the test on some faster moving water/white water in the afternoon.

This is a great adventure to travel to by public transport as you'll start and finish just a short walk from Bedford railway station.

FITNESS REQUIRED

You do not need to be able to swim (you will be wearing a buoyancy aid) but you need to be confident on/in the water.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Two days of kayaking/canoeing/SUP instruction
Coaching from experienced and qualified instructors
1 night in a teepee in a private woodland campsite
Campcraft hints and tips (eg camp cooking)
1 x free range dinner (day 1)
1 x free range breakfast and lunch (day 2)
All specialist watersports equipment
Camaraderie of a friendly group
Transfer back to start-point if on-the-water route doesn’t take you there!

Find out more and book your space: www.explorersconnect.com/river-journey-and-woodland-wild-camp