Outdoor activities for children
DATES
4–6 August 2026
11–13 August 2026
18–20 August 2026
25–27 August 2026
Each day runs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
TICKET PRICE
£50 per person per day
Equipment, buoyancy aids, award winning coaching, activity insurance and the opportunity to achieve Paddle Start are included.
DESCRIPTION
Trade screen time for river time this August.
Splash Camp is Surrey Canoe Club’s day summer paddlesports adventure for young people aged 8–16. Based on the River Thames at Laleham, near Staines-upon-Thames, the course combines kayaking, open canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, river games, practical skills and confidence-building challenges.
No previous paddling experience is required. Beginners can learn how to control a craft safely, while young people with some experience can improve their technique and take on new challenges.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
Across the three days, activities may include:
• Kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding
• Safe entry and exit
• Forward paddling, stopping and turning
• Balance and boat-control games
• Team challenges
• Water-confidence activities
• Basic safety and rescue awareness
• A short Thames paddling journey where conditions allow
• Environmental awareness
• A final skills challenge and celebration of progress
Activities are adapted to suit the group, weather and river conditions.
PADDLE START OPPORTUNITY
Splash Camp includes the opportunity to achieve the official Paddle UK Paddle Start Award.
Paddle Start introduces participants to paddlesport and recognises their developing confidence and practical skills. Certificates will be issued where the participant demonstrates the required standard during the course.
Certification is not automatic because every young person develops at a different pace. Coaches will provide encouragement, practical feedback and advice about how to continue paddling.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
• Kayak, open canoe and stand-up paddleboard use
• Paddles
• Correctly fitted buoyancy aids
• Safety equipment
• Experienced coaching
• Activity insurance
• Paddle Start assessment and certificate where requirements are met
• Full day of organised activities
Participants need to bring a packed lunch, drinks, towel, sun protection, suitable clothing, wet footwear and a complete change of clothes.
INCLUSIVE COACHING
Surrey Canoe Club is a multi-award-winning community paddlesports club committed to making the river accessible to more people. Contact the club before booking if you require any further information.
Sibling discounts and subsidised places for low-income families are available. These cannot be claimed through the standard Eventbrite ticket and should be requested by email before booking.
DofE, SCOUTS AND GUIDES
The physical activity and skills developed during Splash Camp may support suitable DofE, Scouts or Guides requirements. The best summer memories rarely happen in front of a screen.
Choose an August course and give a young person three days of adventure, confidence, friendship and real paddling skills on the River Thames.
Spaces are limited to protect coaching quality.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does my child need experience?
No. Beginners and improvers are welcome.
What age is the course for?
Splash Camp is for young people aged 8–16.
Can I book more than one day?
Yes you can book a complete programme of three-days.
Is the Paddle Start certificate guaranteed?
Participants have the opportunity to achieve Paddle Start. The certificate is issued when the coach confirms the requirements have been met.
Is equipment provided?
Yes. Boats, paddles, buoyancy aids, safety equipment, award winning coaching and activity insurance are included.
What should participants wear?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for the weather and footwear that can get wet. Bring a towel, packed lunch, drinks, sun protection and a full change of clothes. Avoid jeans and open shoes such as sliders, flip flops and clogs.
What if my child has additional needs?
Provide full information during booking and contact Surrey Canoe Club in advance so that support and reasonable adjustments can be discussed.
