Tonbridge Bean

As the sun warms up the Weald and the river glimmers with that gentle golden sheen, there’s no better way to enjoy Tonbridge than from the water. Paddle boarding along the Medway — with ducks for company and the castle keeping watch — has become an increasingly popular way to get outside, get active, and see the town from a different angle.

But before you roll up your wetsuit and haul your SUP board down to the Big Bridge, there’s one key question:

Do you need a licence to paddle board on the River Medway in Tonbridge?

The Short Answer: Yes, You Do

Although the River Medway might feel like a free-for-all, most sections of it are part of a managed navigation — meaning it’s not a completely wild river. In Tonbridge, the stretch of the Medway is overseen by the Environment Agency and Kent County Council’s Medway Navigation.

If you’re planning to launch your paddle board anywhere from Tonbridge Town Lock and paddle east towards Yalding and beyond, then yes, a licence is required.

This isn’t just red tape — the fee goes toward maintaining locks, moorings, towpaths, and safety signage along the river.

How to Get a Licence

There are three main options for getting a paddle boarding licence on the River Medway:

1. PADDLE UK MEMBERSHIP

This is the easiest and most cost-effective way for regular paddlers. A yearly membership (around £60 for adults, with the price dropping down to £49 when you renew) includes access to over 4,500km of waterways in England, including the Medway. It covers you for SUP, kayak, or canoe use.

• Visit: https://paddleuk.org.uk/membership/
• Includes insurance and access to other rivers nationally.

2. Medway Canoe Trail Licences (Short-Term)

If you’re just planning a one-off paddle, you can get a short-term licence from the Environment Agency.

• Contact: www.gov.uk/register-a-boat
• Cost: £5.50 per day
• Available for individual recreational paddlers

Note: Licences may be checked by Medway River Wardens, especially near the locks — and yes, they do sometimes ask.

3. Through a Local Paddle Club or Hire Centre

Some local companies may include a licence with any paddle board or kayak hire. Always check what’s covered before you set off.

4. GET AN ANNUAL LICENCE

If you’re planning to paddle regularly and only plan to paddle in Tonbridge, then getting an annual licence from the Environment Agency might be the best solution for you. Annual fees are £48.60 and you can find all the info you need on the official government website.

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Final Notes: Be a Considerate Paddler

The River Medway is shared with rowers, anglers, narrowboaters, ducks, and the occasional swan with an attitude. Respect others on the water, keep noise down, and leave no trace. That means packing out all litter — even biodegradable things like orange peel or sandwich crusts.

Also, avoid paddling near weirs or in strong flows — especially after heavy rain.

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TL;DR

• ✅ Yes, you do need a licence to paddle board on the Medway in Tonbridge.
• 🛶 Paddle UK membership is your best bet for regular use.
• 📧 You can also contact the Environment Agency for short-term licences.
• 🚣 Paddle safely, respect others, and enjoy the river!