How Long Does It Take to Canoe the River Wye?
One of the most common questions we get asked at Wye Valley Canoes is:
“How long does it take to canoe the River Wye?”
The answer depends entirely on which section of the river you choose to paddle.
The River Wye offers everything from short family-friendly half-day trips to multi-day canoe camping expeditions stretching deep into the Wye Valley.
Glasbury to Hay-on-Wye
Distance
Approximately 5 miles.
Average Time
2.5 to 3 hours.
This is one of the most popular half-day canoe trips on the River Wye and ideal for:
- Families
- Beginners
- Younger children
- Relaxed scenic paddles
The route takes you through one of the most beautiful sections of the Upper Wye beneath the Black Mountains.
Glasbury to Whitney-on-Wye
Distance
Approximately 11.5 to 12 miles.
Average Time
4.5 to 5 hours.
This is our most popular full-day canoe trip.
It gives paddlers a proper day on the river while still remaining achievable for most groups.
Many paddlers finish at The Boat Inn in Whitney for food and drinks after the trip.
Glasbury to Preston-on-Wye (2 Day Trip)
Distance
Approximately 24 miles total.
Average Time
Around 4.5 to 5 hours paddling each day.
This is one of the best beginner-friendly multi-day canoe camping routes in the UK.
Popular overnight stops include:
- Whitney-on-Wye
- Pound Campsite
- Locksters Pool
- Bycross Farm Campsite
Glasbury to Hereford (3 Day Trip)
Distance
Approximately 36 miles.
Average Time
Three days paddling.
This route is perfect for:
- Adventure weekends
- Corporate groups
- Friends and family trips
- Canoe camping expeditions
The scenery gradually changes as paddlers travel deeper into the Wye Valley.
What Affects Paddling Time?
Several factors affect how long a canoe trip takes:
- River levels
- Wind direction
- Group size
- Experience levels
- Stops for swimming or lunch
- Wildlife spotting and breaks
At Wye Valley Canoes, we provide realistic timings before every trip.
Which River Wye Canoe Trip Is Best?
For beginners, the Glasbury to Hay-on-Wye route is usually ideal.
For a full day adventure, Glasbury to Whitney is the most popular choice.
For people wanting a real expedition experience, the multi-day trips through the Wye Valley are hard to beat.