Kayaking is an environmentally friendly activity – all propulsion comes from your own physical exertion or the tides – that appeals to people of all ages who like open spaces, the sea air and being close to nature. Hiring a kayak for a day or weekend is a brilliant way to explore rivers and waterways, and you can use them to get off the beaten track or even take you between campsites on a longer trip.

Whereas a canoe is an open boat with a single paddle that you can kneel or sit in, a kayak is enclosed and for sitting only, and in which you use double-ended paddles. Kayaks can be for one or two people, so if you plan to do it as a family, one adult and one child can go in each boat.

Kayaking on canals and rivers is perhaps the safest way to try out the sport, though you should still have some training before you set out to ensure you know the drill if you capsize. There are some excellent routes in South Wales and the West Country, taking in miles of placid water without locks. The River Wye from Glasbury to Monmouth has almost 100 miles with just a few rapids, taking you through some spectacular scenery including Hay-on-Wye, Hereford Cathedral and the Symonds Yat Gorge.

Kayaking clubs and shops can rent you kayaks and also take you on guided paddles.

Some people prefer sea kayaking. The British Canoe Union holds organized paddles in which beginners can join forces with the more experienced to have a go at sea kayaking. If you’re not with a knowledgeable group then you need to take great care, as safety will depend on the weather and tides.

If you or your children take to kayaking, you might like to spice things up a bit: meeting challenging conditions in tide races, undertaking long open crossings or trying sea racing, where you compete against others in a standard expedition kayak over distances of up to 12 miles.

The British Canoe Union (www.bcu.org.uk) has information about all forms of canoeing and kayaking.

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