Paddle the Dee: seeing Chester from the river

Chester is a city best known for its walls, its Rows and its cathedral, but one of the most rewarding ways to see it is from the water. That is the thinking behind Paddle the Dee, which offers kayaking and paddleboard adventures, tours and lessons on the River Dee in Chester and North Wales.

The business took on its current name in 2025, rebranding to Paddle the Dee as it welcomed stand-up paddleboarding into its offering alongside its established kayaking. The change reflects the huge growth in paddleboarding in recent years, as more people discover what a sociable and accessible way it is to get out on the water.

At the heart of what it does is a friendly and professional river paddling service. That matters on a river like the Dee, where newcomers benefit from experienced guidance, and it means people who have never held a paddle can join a session with confidence, while more experienced paddlers can build their skills.

The Dee is one of the most characterful rivers in the region. In Chester it flows past the Groves, the racecourse on the Roodee and beneath historic bridges, with the city's skyline as a backdrop, while beyond Chester it winds through the landscapes of North Wales. Seen from a kayak or board, familiar landmarks take on a completely different look, and the river's wildlife, from waterbirds to the quiet stretches lined with trees, becomes part of the experience.

For visitors, a guided paddle offers a memorable alternative to the usual sightseeing, and for locals it is a chance to fall in love with their own city all over again. It also makes a fine choice for group outings, family days and anyone looking for a new outdoor pursuit that combines exercise with fresh air and good company.

There is a wellbeing dimension, too. Time spent on and around water is widely associated with feeling calmer and more refreshed, and the gentle rhythm of paddling makes it as much about switching off as it is about exercise. For many first-timers, the surprise is just how quickly they relax once they have found their balance or settled into the kayak.

As with most river activities, sessions are shaped by the seasons and the conditions on the water, so it is wise to check availability and book ahead, particularly in the busy summer months.

Tours, lessons and booking information are available at paddlethedee.com.