Big Severn Adventure

Discover Shropshire’s wild beauty from the water with Big Severn Adventure.
We run fully-supported, multi-day canoe holidays on the River Severn:  the UK’s longest river,  combining tranquil paddling, riverside pubs, historic towns, and the very best of Shropshire countryside. Whether you’re after a weekend escape, a week-long adventure, or a solo traveller trip with new friends, we’ve made it simple, safe, and unforgettable.

Who We Are

Big Severn Adventure is a Shropshire-based, family-run business with years of paddling expertise. We’re not just about hiring you a canoe, we’re about creating complete holidays that blend adventure, relaxation, and the unique character of our region.

We know this river inside out, from the quiet upper reaches above Shrewsbury, to the dramatic Ironbridge Gorge and beyond. Nigel has paddled these waters countless times and carefully designed each route to show you the best of Shropshire: scenic countryside, hidden campsites, historic market towns, cosy B&Bs, and the welcoming pubs that line the banks.

What We Do

At  Big Severn Adventure we specialise in multi-day, self-guided canoe trips. That means we supply the canoes, paddles, buoyancy aids, waterproof barrels, route maps, safety briefing, and shuttle transport ~ and you supply the sense of adventure.

We currently offer:

• Shropshire Specials (3–4 days) – Perfect for a long weekend or short break. Paddle from the Welsh border down into Shrewsbury and Ironbridge, stopping at riverside campsites or quaint inns.

• Big Severn Adventure (5–7 days) – Take on the full journey! Up to 125 miles of paddling, giving you a true expedition feel while still enjoying comfortable overnight stays.

• Solo Traveller Trips – Fixed-date departures where individuals can join a group. No need to bring a partner ~ you’ll meet like-minded adventurers and share the experience together.

Every trip is designed to be accessible for beginners, families, and those who’ve never paddled before. We’ll give you all the guidance you need, and the river itself is calm, scenic, and welcoming.

Why Paddle With Us?

✔ Stress-free logistics – We handle the planning, the gear, and the shuttles. You just arrive and paddle.

✔ Flexible accommodation – Camp riverside under the stars, or upgrade to cosy B&Bs and enjoy Shropshire’s renowned food scene.

✔ Local expertise – We’re based here, paddle here, and love sharing the places most visitors never find.

✔ Trusted safety – Full safety equipment, route briefings, and local knowledge & Boats tracked to give peace of mind.

✔ Real adventure close to home – No flights, no fuss. Just the freedom of the river and the chance to properly switch off.

The River Severn Experience

Paddling the Severn is like stepping back into a slower rhythm of life. You’ll drift past kingfishers flashing blue along the banks, herons lifting lazily from the shallows, and rolling green hills that cradle the river’s curves. Each day brings something new:

• Historic towns like Shrewsbury with its medieval streets, or Ironbridge, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

• Riverside pubs where you can land your canoe and enjoy a hearty meal.

• Campsites and B&Bs where stories are swapped around the fire or over breakfast.

• Wild swimming spots and quiet stretches where you’ll feel miles away from modern life.

This isn’t just a canoe trip, it’s a way to reconnect with nature, with each other, and with yourself.

Perfect For…

• Couples looking for a romantic but adventurous short break.

• Families wanting something active, outdoors, and screen-free.

• Groups of friends after a memorable weekend with stories to last years.

• Solo travellers eager to meet new people while exploring safely.

• Gift buyers searching for an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

Practicalities

• Location: Trips run from Shropshire along the River Severn. Start points vary by itinerary.

• Duration: 3, 4, 5, or 7 days.

• Included: Canoes, paddles, buoyancy aids, waterproof storage, safety briefing, transfers.

• Optional extras: Pre-booked camping, B&B upgrades, luggage transfer service,

• Skill level: Suitable for complete beginners.

Why Shropshire?

Shropshire is one of England’s most unspoiled counties, and the River Severn is its heart. Our guests often say they’re amazed at how wild and peaceful it feels, despite being so close to Birmingham, Manchester, and London.

From the rolling Shropshire Hills to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ironbridge Gorge, the river ties the county’s landscapes and stories together. A canoe holiday is the most natural way to explore it.

Book Your Adventure

Your River Severn journey is waiting. Whether it’s a weekend paddle with pub stops or a full week of adventure, Big Severn Adventure has a trip for you.

Big Severn Adventure — Canoe Holidays, Made Simple.