Rising in the heart of Norfolk, the River Yare runs eastwards through the fine city of Norwich to the Broads and on to the North Sea. Ever moving, ever changing, rivers are the flow of the natural world, shaping the land, connecting earth and sea. There is something infinitely calming about steering a canoe, keeping course, steady and rhythmical, in tune with nature’s heartbeat. Drift your hand in the flowing water and you’re touching time itself, and the essence of all life on earth.

Deepen your sense of local connection by hiring a handcrafted Canadian canoe from Thorpe Island Boats in the pretty riverside village of Thorpe St Andrew. Undisturbed by motors, hear the music of the river in peace, on a self-guided tour on the Yare. Starting from Thorpe River Green, paddle upstream towards Norwich for a tranquil glide through the historic city. Or head downstream, amongst beautiful countryside, joyous with wildlife, birdsong and wind whispering in the trees.

All Thorpe Island Boats’ beautiful canoes and stream-lined wooden paddle boards are handmade at their yard opposite the Rushcutters pub. The canoes are stable, fast, and extremely manoeuvrable suitable for novices as well as experienced paddlers!

Whichever direction is calling you, there are some wonderful pub stops along the way, marked on tried and tested 2 or 3 hour self-guided routes. Rentals are weather permitting, gentle rain is a pleasure, high winds not so much! Life jackets provided. And jaunty dogs are most welcome!