Canoeing and paddleboarding in Newtown Harbour

Protecting nature and yourselves

Newtown’s mudflats, saltmarsh and shingle spits are particularly sensitive areas. They can be easily eroded and also provide important nesting sites for wild birds, such as redshanks, ringed plover and terns which can be disturbed by the landing and launching of canoes. There are also hazardous tides, currents and soft mud that can pose a safety risk when canoeing or paddleboarding. This means there are only certain places that are suitable for landing and launching.

Limited parking

Although Cassey Bridge is suitable for unloading, we ask that you park in the car park at the visitor point and not on the verges. This helps to protect the delicate wildlife that lives in these grassy habitats.

Our small boat and canoe guide is available below. By following the guidance in it, you’ll be helping to protect nesting birds, delicate plants and minimise erosion of the saltmarsh, as well as keeping yourself safe.

Paddleboarding

Our guidance for paddleboaders is broadly the same as canoeist, however kneeling whilst paddleboading is prefered in the estuary and creeks, as the lower down in the water you are the less you are likely to disturb nesting birds. Stay clear of the marked conservation area as this is restricted area with no access; as well as being an area reserved for birds and marine life, the soft mud is dangerous.