OVERNIGHT river PADDLE 2024
A magical overnight paddle adventure on the River Dart in June for adults and kids. Set up camp on the river bank; enjoy a campfire supper under the stars, nocturnal wildlife, storytelling and breakfast.
event Profile
Date
29-30 june
price
£95 adults / kids < 12 yrs free
Location
River dart
Suitability
adult & kids
Age Range
6+ yrs / Swimmers+
Overview
The Dart river valley is bursting with life and vitality, its beauty unspoiled and its waters unpolluted. Take advantage of the long summer days and travel down and back up the beautiful River Dart in open canoes, soak in the atmosphere of dusk, firelight, stars and stories before camping on the riverbank. Includes campfire supper and breakfast, nocturnal wildlife and storytelling.
We provide canoes, all canoeing equipment and teach all the necessary skills. No previous experience of canoeing is necessary, although participants must be able to swim.
£95 per adult/child over 12 yrs
Each adult can bring up to 2 kids under 12 years at no extra cost
What's Included
- Campfire supper
- Breakfast
- Teas/coffees and refreshments
- Bushcraft/campcraft activities
- Canoe equipment & buoyancy aids
- Nature immersion time away from devices
Essential Information
Tom Wigston – Tom has spent over 25 years working in the outdoor and environmental education sector, enabling people of all ages to access the benefits that experiences in nature have to offer. Tom first trained as an Environmental Educator in North America and developed his skills as a facilitator and trainer through working for organisations back in the UK. Tom spent several years in a senior role with the Devon County Council Outdoor Service developing outdoor programmes, managing outdoor centres, and delivering training. He is a qualified teacher, Forest School leader and Bushcraft Instructor and carries several other outdoor leadership qualifications and accreditation. Tom has recently completed a master’s degree in education, pursuing his keen interest in the academic and philosophical exploration of outdoor learning and human-environment relationships.
Chris Salisbury – Chris founded WildWise after many years working as an education officer for Devon Wildlife Trust. With a background in the theatre, a training in therapy and a career in environmental education he uses every creative means at his disposal to encourage people to enjoy and value the natural world. He has worked with Ray Mears and John Rhyder, amongst many others.
Timings are dependent on the tides and will be confirmed nearer the date.
Typically the event runs from Saturday to Sunday afternoon but we will update once confirmed. Contact us if you have any queries.
All paddle equipment is provided including buoyancy aids although we ask that participants are able to swim. Please dress appropriately for the weather (noting that it is very rare that we cancel due to the bad weather!). A waterproof jacket is recommended with warm layers underneath plus robust footwear that can get wet/splashed. You will also need to bring:
- a tent, mat & sleeping bag;
- torch & spare batteries;
- spare clothes & footwear;
- swimming costume & towel
- water bottle, food for lunches & snacks.
Pack small! (to fit in canoe). Full details will be provided on booking
Meet at the Totnes boatshed near King Edwards School (KEVICCS). This is by the river just above Totnes weir. You can reach it on foot on the river path from either Totnes or Dartington. To locate it by car from Dartington, make your way towards Totnes. As you enter the town, look for the footbridge over the road and KEVICC Elmhirst site is on your left hand side. There is a path running by the Astroturf pitch which leads down to the foot/cycle path next to the river. Turn left, you will see the small concrete boat shed, covered in ivy, where we will meet you. You can also access the river path from the bottom of Swallowfields, a no through road near to KEVICCS school.
Click here to see the what3words location online or view approximate meeting point in google maps below.
Parking: There is no parking at the river side and nearby on street parking is very limited. We recommend you use the pay & display car parks nearer town, for example at Totnes station or at Pavillions car park near Borough Park.
A campfire supper and simple breakfast in included. Please bring food for lunches/snacks.
Recommended: Click here for online booking with instant confirmation.
If you have any queries you may complete a booking form online here or call us 01803 868269 (message service when office unattended)