If you want a different view of Nidderdale’s spectacular landscape including the chance of seeing water-loving wildlife such as herons, otters and kingfishers nearby, venture out aboard a canoe or kayak.

From the beautifully wild, remote reservoir of Scar House to the tranquil Glasshouses Mill Dam; you can enjoy exciting white water or peaceful stretches of the rivers Ure, Wharfe, or Nidd. For paddlers of all levels, How Stean Gorge organises group sessions, including after-dark canoeing evenings on Scar House Reservoir.

Bewerley Park Outdoor Centre offers half and full day canoeing activities for youngsters and beginners on the gentle waters of Glasshouses Mill Dam.

Experienced paddlers will find stretches of the River Ure navigable from Mickley down through West Tanfield to Sleningford (where there’s a riverside campsite and parking) and on to Ripon. There are also the lower reaches of the Nidd from Hampsthwaite to Knaresborough and the Wharfe from Bolton Abbey down to Ilkley and Otley (but think safety first by identifying the locations of weirs and checking the river levels beforehand).

Alternatively How Stean Gorge also offers canoeing trips on the River Ure from Ripon where you can meander along at a relaxed pace, enjoying glimpses of the wildlife and simply being at one with the surroundings.

General information
It should be remembered that water level on rivers and reservoirs can quickly rise and fall without warning, and the water can be cold with waves in windy conditions. All rivers have weirs across them at strategic intervals. Some are old, previously used to divert water into a mill water wheel, others more modern and used for flood management. Most can be got over or around but not in all water conditions and not everywhere.

Canoeing is a great way to observe the flora and fauna of rivers. Otters, voles and birds such as herons and dippers can be observed at close quarters. Please always respect the environment.

The Nidderdale rivers and streams teem with fish of all kinds so they are popular with coarse and game fish anglers. Please respect them also.