Paddle through the reeds and glide into the wild.
Imagine the world from the waterline—where dragonflies skim the surface, Marsh Harriers quarter the skies overhead, and the hush of the reedbed is broken only by the gentle dip of a paddle. This is the realm of Bittern, Kingfishers and secretive Otters. Now, for a limited time, you’re invited to experience it as they do.
With each gentle paddle stroke, you’ll glide deeper into the reserve, low on the water in a canoe and fully immersed in the sights, sounds, and scents of the season.
This is a rare opportunity to explore parts of the reserve closed to the public with an experienced instructor and expert wildlife guides. Whether you’re a seasoned nature lover or simply seeking a new perspective, this experience offers the chance to connect to the wild in a truly unforgettable way.
Please arrive at the Ham Wall car park 15 minutes before the advertised start time to register with RSPB helpers at the Catering Kiosk.
Key information
COST
Booking essential.
Advanced booking required – tickets will be sent to the email address you provide and should be presented (digital or print) on the day of your event.
Adult RSPB member – £23
Adult non-RSPB member – £28.50
Child RSPB member – £12
Child non-RSPB member – £14.75
Please note that booking fees apply. Booking fee included in costs above.
This event is suitable for ages 6+. Children (6-17) must be accompanied by an adult. Children aged 5 and below will not be permitted to join the tour.
DATE AND TIME
Saturdays 5, 12 & 19 Sept, Sundays 6, 13 & 20 Sept 2026
WHERE
RSPB Ham Wall
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
For full information and to book your place see: https://events.rspb.org.uk/hamwall
ACCESSIBILTY
The tour is a flat paddle on still water, so no previous experience is necessary. The ability to get in and out of a canoe and paddle on the water for around 45 minutes at a slow to moderate pace is required. Participants should be confident in and around water although you do not need to be a swimmer. An expert instructor will provide equipment and a safety briefing before we set off on the water.
There is a 10-15 minute walk (0.3 miles) including over a rough and uneven grassy path to reach the area where you will be starting your canoe trip. We are unable to provide transport to or from the start point.
The only toilets are located in the car park at RSPB Ham Wall, close to the arrival/check-in location.
You may be required to share a canoe with someone who is not in your group. Tickets are sold individually for each participant. Canoes are mostly 2-person with a couple of 3-person canoes available. We will endeavour to place family groups together when canoes are allocated at the start of the tour. Canoes will be allocated at the launch point only.
Please contact us at ham.wall@rspb.org.uk if you have any questions about accessibility before booking.
ORGANISED BY
RSPB Ham Wall
PHOTO CREDIT
RSPB Staff