If you’ve ever thought about trying something new, in a fun and welcoming environment, or wondered what it might feel like exploring London’s waterways and beyond in a kayak, you’re in the right place. At London Kayak School we’re passionate about making kayak lessons accessible, fun and rewarding. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to advance your skills, our range of programmes delivers quality coaching, clear progression and the chance to join a thriving paddling community.
Why Try Kayak Lessons?
Learning to kayak offers a unique blend of adventure, fitness and tranquillity. During our lessons you’ll gain core paddle-skills, confidence in the boat and an understanding of how to work with the water rather than fight it. This translates into real benefits:
-
Enhanced posture, core strength and overall fitness from using your whole body to paddle.
-
A mental reset. The water provides space to think, breathe and switch off from everyday pressures.
-
New experiences and friendships. Join our cohort of paddlers of all ages and enjoy the camaraderie on the water.
-
Progression pathways. At London Kayak School we don’t just stop at the basics, you can challenge yourself further via club sessions, white-water weekends and freestyle if you choose.

What to Expect from Your Kayak Lesson
If you’re booking your first kayak lessons with LKS here’s what happens:
-
Your instructor will start with a briefing on kit, safety, and the water environment giving you everything you need to feel comfortable before you get in the boat.
-
On the water you’ll learn key skills such as paddling forwards and backwards, turning, stopping and steering techniques.
-
For our beginner groups we keep it friendly, supportive and plenty of fun. All equipment is provided and you’ll be working with experienced coaches from the LKS team.
-
At the end you’ll reflect on your progression and be given pointers for your next session.
A Year-Round Approach to Paddling
One of the great things about LKS is that our offer isn’t restricted to just summer. With our club-style sessions you can keep paddling all year. For example our Adult Canoe Club runs every Saturday afternoon throughout the year. Although you’ll want to wrap up a bit warmer in the winter months!
This year-round commitment means your kayak lessons don’t stop when the weather cools, and you can keep developing momentum and confidence.
Progressing Beyond the Basics: Clubs & Pool Sessions
Once you’ve completed your first kayak lessons you might ask “what’s next?”, at LKS we have several routes of progression:
Adult Canoe Club
If you’ve grown comfortable with your paddling and want to join something regular, our adult canoe club is ideal. Every Saturday from 2.30pm-4pm, all levels are welcome (no upper age limit) and all equipment is provided.
Membership allows you to continue developing your skills, explore London’s waterways with others and build confidence on the water beyond the initial lesson. Find out more…
Youth Canoe Club
If you’re booking lessons for a younger paddler then our youth canoe club offers that next step of weekly sessions, friendly coaches and a pathway from the initial lesson to more advanced paddling. Find out more…
Rolling Clinics / Pool Sessions
For those who want to refine their technique (especially key moves like the kayak roll) we run rolling clinics and pool sessions. These are brilliant for winter and when you want to build confidence in a controlled environment. The on-land or warm water environment helps paddlers experiment safely, improve their form and build toward more advanced rivers and rapids. Find out more…
BCAB Discover Award
Step into the world of paddlesports with our Paddle Discover Award course, designed for newcomers eager to explore kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding. This one-day programme, accredited by Paddle UK (formerly British Canoeing), equips you with essential skills and knowledge to navigate sheltered waters safely and enjoyably. Find out more…

Why London Kayak School Stands Out
LKS isn’t just about getting you in a kayak. We combine a friendly community, expert coaches and structured programmes to help you grow over time. Founded by head coach Mike Shaw and supported by top-tier coaches, we deliver quality.
Our inclusive culture, year-round club sessions, and clear progression pathways mean your first kayak lessons aren’t an isolated taster, they could be the start of something much bigger.
Final Word
If you’ve been searching for kayak lessons and you live in or near London there’s no better place to begin than with London Kayak School. With structured lessons for beginners, friendly coaches, year-round club sessions and winter refinement via pool or rolling clinics, you’re covered from your first stroke to becoming a confident paddler. So why wait? Book your first session, embrace the water and discover how much joy, calm and strength a kayak can bring into your life.
Getting Started: Your Next Step
Still unsure where to get started? Get in touch, we’d be happy to help!
We look forward to seeing you on the water!