River Medway Canoe Trail

Canoe through the beautiful River Medway Trail and take in opportunities to spot birds, wildlife and plantlife that adorn the riverbank. Spanning 29 km/18 miles, this canoe trail can be paddled either within a day or to savour the peace and quiet it can be completed over two days by staying overnight along the river bank at a campsite or a wild camping spot.

The trail starts in Tonbridge and heads out into the countryside of the Medway Valley. Paddle past patchwork fields many of them wet meadows dotted with anthills.  Lucky passers by may spot green woodpeckers feeding on ants! Reaching Porters Lock you can use the fish friendly canoe pass or the portage platforms nearby.

The trail takes you through various locks including Oak Weir Lock, Sluice Weir Lock. At Hempsted Lock in Yalding you can rest at the access point, hop off the river for refreshments at The Boathouse, make sure you secure your vessel securely before heading for lunch. Teston Country Park is the next stop along the trail and is another great spot for you own picnic lunch. Continue to Maidstone where the old and new effortlessly combine. Paddling alongside archbishops palace you will see the majestic beauty of this building as you make your final approach towards Allington Lock – next to the Malta Inn public house.

For updates on river conditions or camping opportunities please visit www.medwaycanoetrail.co.uk

Please note: All vessels using River Medway Trail must be registered with the Environment Agency or have a British Canoeing Membership