Kayaking in Devon

Discover kayaking at Skern Lodge.

Set on the Taw-Torridge Estuary, Skern Lodge is the perfect location to try your hand at kayaking. Paddle along the peaceful River Torridge for relaxing countryside views, or take your adventure out to sea and explore North Devon’s beautiful coastline.

Always led by qualified, experienced instructors, your group will enjoy a full day out on the water. Beginners will quickly learn the basics, build confidence, and have plenty of fun. You might even discover a new hobby – one that allows you to see the world from a new angle!

Our kayaks, life jackets and equipment are regularly checked and maintained, and every session begins with a clear safety briefing. You’ll have time to practise your skills in calm, sheltered waters before setting off, too.

For 50 years, we’ve helped groups of all ages and sizes learn to kayak. So whether you’re planning a school residential, a team building event, or a weekend with friends and family, we can make it happen.

Get in touch today to book a kayaking experience with Skern Lodge.

Why choose us?

Devon’s Leading Outdoor Activity Centre
Over 45 Years Of Experience
Fully Qualified Instructors & Detailed Safety Procedures

FAQs

Show FAQs

Can we include kayaking as part of a school residential?

Yes, kayaking can be included as part of a school residential at Skern Lodge. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are tailored to the age, ability, and confidence of the group. All safety equipment is provided, and activities are planned around weather and water conditions. Kayaking is a great way to develop teamwork, confidence, and water skills while giving pupils an enjoyable and rewarding outdoor experience.

How do we book?

Booking with us is easy. Simply complete the enquiry form on our website or give us a call. As programmes vary depending on group size, age and activities, we’ll check availability, talk through your requirements and guide you through the rest of the booking process.

Is kayaking open to the public?

Yes, kayaking is open to the public at selected times at Skern Lodge. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are suitable for a range of ages and abilities, including beginners. All necessary equipment is provided. Availability can vary depending on conditions and demand, so we recommend contacting our team in advance to check session times and book.

What about the weather?

On the whole activities are carried out regardless of the weather. Each morning, and just before starting an activity, an assessment is made about the weather. Sometimes strong winds can make kayaking unsafe, in which case an alternative activity will be found. Safety is never compromised.

What should we wear or bring for watersports?

Please bring old trainers or water shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops or bare feet), a swimsuit to wear under your kit, and a towel for afterwards. We recommend comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting wet, plus a warm layer for after the session. All specialist safety equipment (wetsuits, buoyancy aids, helmets where needed) is provided by Skern Lodge. On sunny days, sunscreen and a water bottle are also a good idea.

Get in Touch

Skern Lodge Outdoor Activity Centre
Appledore,
Bideford,
Devon
EX39 1NG

Contact

01237 475 992

Looking for the next adventure?

Get in touch with our friendly team.

Other activites at Skern Lodge

Archery

Nock... Draw... Loose! Hit the target, measure your progress and finish with some fun archery based games and competitions. Archery teaches concentration, coordination and self-discipline.

Assault Course

Make your way through a series of connecting obstacles including the wall, rope bridges, balance beams and a zip wire.

Body Boarding

Body boarding is great fun and quick to learn too. It's a bit like surfing but on smaller boards, but unlike surfing you don't stand up, instead you lie on the board and catch the next big wave back to shore.

Climbing

Climbing is an exhilarating sport that can appeal to all levels of ability. On site we have two climbing walls. We have a low level traversing wall to practise climbing skills and a full height climbing tower with two walls to stretch and challenge.

Coastal Exploration

Coastal traversing involves climbing and scrambling around the sea cliffs. Traverse along, over, under, around and through the rocky obstacles. Try and stay dry as you find a way to dodge the rock pools. You may even come across the odd piece of shipwreck.

Hartland Day

Spend the whole day on the beautiful North Devon coastline. Explore, walk and scramble over the rugged natural features. This is an opportunity to spend time walking and coastal traversing in this amazing location. Subject to tides and conditions.

High Ropes

Our high ropes course stands 12 metres high. The course can be used for a variety of challenges - High beams, multi-vines, scramble net and trapeze to name a few!

Powerboating

Take the wheel under the guidance of our qualified instructor and experience racing across the seas in our RIB Powerboat.

Surfing

With one of the ideal safe surf beaches on our doorstep, Westward Ho! provides the ideal location to take to the waves. We offer surf sessions using soft surfboards. These are ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers.