Let’s Paddle at Poplar Union for Black History Month

Explore the waterways by kayak or katakanu with expert guidance. Fun, family-friendly sessions for all abilities.

Get out on the water and experience the thrill of paddling on London’s historic waterways.

Whether you’re trying paddlesports for the first time or looking to enjoy a fun day outdoors with family and friends, this event offers the perfect opportunity to explore the canal by kayak or katakanu. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll learn the basics before setting off to discover the waterway from a unique perspective.

Choose from double kayaks, ideal for pairs, or join a katakanu, a stable multi-person craft that is perfect for families, groups and complete beginners. No previous experience is required, and all equipment is provided.

Children are welcome and sessions are designed to be enjoyable, inclusive and accessible for a wide range of abilities. Along the way, you’ll build confidence on the water, enjoy the outdoors and experience the wellbeing benefits of spending time by the canal.

Hosted by ELCAN in partnership with the Canal & River Trust, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, try something new and discover the waterway from a completely different perspective. Join us for an unforgettable paddling adventure and enjoy spending time on and around the water.

Event Details

Saturday 24th October

Lessons are available in both our 2-person kayaks, and our larger 6-person katakanus which are great for anyone who wants to feel more secure in a larger boat.

These lessons are open to all and no previous experience is necessary. One of our  coaches will work with you to learn the basics of paddling. The session will focus on how to get in and out of the boat safely, steering and boat control, and having fun!

Thursday 29 and Friday 30 October Sessions:

Join us for this 90 minute paddlesport lesson! If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about paddlesports, now’s your chance. Lessons are available in both opur 2-person kayaks, and our larger 6-person katakanus which are great for anyone who wants to feel more secure in a larger boat.

More Information

Katakanus:

Explore the local waterways on our guided katakanus trip!

This session is suitable for complete beginners and those of mixed ability as the Katakanus are very stable. There are 5 spaces on each katakanu and you will be accompanied by an experienced instructor.

Please note you will be provided with a paddle and required to assist with the paddling.

Children welcome. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult – one adult can supervise several children on these boats.

Kayaks:

Explore the local waterways on our double kayaks!

This session is suitable for complete beginners and those who have tried paddlesports before. There are 2 spaces on each boat so you can book with a family member or friend, or meet someone new on arrival.

Instructors will take you through the basics of how to paddle and control the boat before you get a chance to explore the canal or play some games.

Children welcome. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and there must be an adult in each kayak.

Health & Safety

Please let your instructors know if you have any special requirements (access/physical or otherwise) or are worried about your swimming ability. An individual waiver must be completed by everyone going on the water. This will need to be completed on site on the day of your booking.

What to wear

On the day, please wear clothes suitable for moderate outdoor activity – you don’t need any special gear, just comfy clothes which aren’t too precious and sensible, closed toe flat shoes. People tend to stay mostly dry other than a few paddle splashes, but you may want to bring a change of clothes just in case.

You may wish to bring:

• suncream
• a warm hat/sunhat
• drinking water/snacks
• splash proof jacket or trousers (especially if it’s a windy day)
• a towel (just in case!)

Unfortunately the changing rooms are closed for refurbishments, but there is a shower that can be used in an emergency.

Finding us on the day

To find us on the day please check out Poplar Union’s location here. The full address is 2 Cotall St, Poplar, London E14 6TL. For more information on how to get there please visit Poplar Union’s website where they have a number of useful videos explaining this.

ELCAN CIC will have a sign-in table near the top of the wide steps to the canal, so you can get registered and kitted up there.

If you arrive at Poplar Union early for your session, staff may still be working with other clients. If this is the case, you can grab a seat overlooking the pontoon, or coffee & treats are available at the E5 Bakehouse.