River Wey information for portable craft
Canoeing, kayaking or paddle-boarding along the River Wey Navigations is a great way to explore this historic waterway. Here you’ll find information of launch points, guidance for safe paddling and downloadable licences for your craft.
Information for portable craft
If you’re planning to paddle along the River Wey Navigations, please download the Information for portable craft booklet for your safety.
If you require this information in a different format, please contact the Navigations Office.
Download the information for portable craft booklet
We also recommend you look at The Paddlers Code, a really useful guide to using waterways safely and responsibly.
Here is a great version of how to stay safe on the water
Book a licence
All paddlers require a licence for the River Wey and Godalming Navigations. Here you can book a portable craft licence online for up to 7 days. If you need an annual licence, you will need to download the application form which must be returned to Thames Lock, Stoke Lock (in person) or the Navigations Office (by post or in person).
Download our 2025 portable craft licence or book a portable craft licence
Hire companies on the river
If you want to have a go at stand up paddleboarding or kayaking, check out these websites:
The River Wey Navigation
The River Wey Navigation was built 100 years before the Canal Age. It runs 15½ miles from Guildford to the Thames at Weybridge. The Godalming Navigation, opened in 1764, extended the navigable waterway a further 4 miles to Godalming.
Today, the navigation forms a green corridor running through the Surrey countryside. The unique landscape contains a rich variety of wildlife habitats in a relatively small area.
Paddling through the navigations is a great way to discover Surrey’s towns, villages and countryside from the tranquillity of the water. There’s plenty to see along the Wey, with historic locks and pretty cottages adding to the waterway’s special character.
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River Wey Navigations boat trips
Experience the River Wey Navigations on a boat trip, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the towpath, looking out for wildlife along the water’s edge.
Eating and shopping at River Wey
Enjoy a range of refreshments at the tea-room or browse the second-hand bookshop at Dapdune to discover your next favourite read.
River Wey information for boat users
Take in the beautiful Surrey scenery by boating along the River Wey Navigation. Find information for boat users and licences here.
Family-friendly things to do at River Wey Navigations and Dapdune Wharf
Bring your family to Dapdune Wharf for a boat trip, family fun or to browse the award-winning Bookshed, packed to the rafters with a wonderful variety of second-hand books, all donated by visitors and local communities around the River Wey. Enjoy a cream tea in the café or have a run around the island.