Navigating The Medway From Sluice Weir Lock To Yalding.

The River Medway, a ribbon of tranquillity winding through the heart of Kent, offers an idyllic escape for those seeking a unique connection with nature and heritage. For paddlers of all skill levels, a journey from Sluice Weir Lock to the charming village of Yalding represents a quintessential Medway experience: a gentle, scenic adventure brimming with history, wildlife, and serene beauty.

 

Our journey commences at the historic Sluice Weir Lock, a testament to the Medway's past as a vital commercial waterway. Here, the hum of modern life begins to recede, replaced by the gentle lapping of water and the rustle of reeds. As the paddles dip into the water, propelling you downstream, the river quickly showcases its diverse character. The banks are often a lush tapestry of overhanging willows, ancient woodlands, and vibrant wildflowers. Keep an eye out for darting kingfishers, flashes of electric blue against the greens and browns, or the majestic, silent flight of a heron stalking its prey. Swans glide by with an air of serene regality, while coots and moorhens busy themselves in the reedy margins.

The Medway's charm lies in its gentle, unassuming nature. There's no rush here; the current is forgiving, allowing you to set your own pace. Each bend in the river reveals a new vista – a grand country house glimpsed through trees, a centuries-old bridge arching gracefully overhead, or perhaps a lone fishing boat patiently waiting for a bite

The journey feels like a perfectly timed meditation on water. The rhythmic dip and pull of the paddle, the subtle sounds of the river, and the ever-changing natural canvas combine to create a deeply restorative experience. It's a chance to unplug, to breathe deeply, and to see Kent from a unique, low-level perspective.

As you draw closer to Yalding, the signs of civilisation gradually reappear. The iconic Yalding Bridge, with its ancient stone arches, signals your imminent arrival. This historic crossing, a survivor of centuries and floods, is a true landmark and a beautiful gateway to the village.

Paddling from Sluice Weir Lock to Yalding is more than just a physical journey; it's an immersion. It's an accessible adventure that unveils the quiet beauty of one of England's most cherished waterways, leaving you refreshed, invigorated, and with a lasting appreciation for the Medway's timeless charm.

Link:

Paddle Paradise. Part 1: A Kayaking Journey from Yalding to Sluice Weir Lock on the River Medway.

Paddle Paradise. Part 1: A Kayaking Journey from Yalding to Sluice Weir Lock on the River Medway

Escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of rural Kent with a kayaking adventure on the River Medway. One of the most idyllic and accessible stretches for paddlers is the journey from the historic village of Yalding down to the distinctive Sluice Weir Lock. This gentle paddle offers a unique perspective of the Garden of England, combining natural serenity with glimpses of charming riverside life.

   

 The Journey Begins: Yalding... 

Your adventure typically begins in Yalding, a picturesque village renowned for its historic bridges (including the famous Twyford Bridge) and its undeniable charm. There are several accessible points for launching your kayak or canoe, often near the village green or by one of the riverside pubs. As you push off from the bank, the immediate sense of peace is palpable. The river here flows gently, framed by lush green banks, mature trees, and the occasional classic Kentish oast house peeking through the foliage.

As you paddle, the scenery unfolds like a living watercolour...

Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife. Ducks and swans glide gracefully alongside you, kingfishers flash electric blue, and if you're lucky, you might spot a shy otter or a soaring buzzard overhead. The rustle of reeds and the gentle splash of fish breaking the surface add to the symphony of nature. The river winds through quintessential Kent countryside. You'll pass rolling fields, isolated farmhouses, and occasionally, glimpses of quaint villages nestled into the landscape. The absence of motor traffic makes this an incredibly peaceful experience, where the only sounds are the dip of your paddle and the birdsong.

The Approach to Sluice Weir Lock...

After a relaxing paddle of around 2.5 miles, you'll approach the iconic Sluice Weir Lock. This isn't a traditional navigation lock for boats, but rather a weir structure that controls water levels, often with a dedicated canoe/kayak portage point. The sight of the weir and the surrounding lock complex signals the end of this particular leg of your journey. You'll need to carefully disembark and portage your kayak around the weir, using the designated pathways. This is a good opportunity to stretch your legs, enjoy a snack, and reflect on the journey you've just completed. 

Why This Paddle? The Medway Magic.

Kayaking from Yalding to Sluice Weir Lock is more than just a physical activity; it's an opportunity to reconnect with nature, enjoy moments of profound peace, and experience the Kentish countryside from a truly unique vantage point. It's an accessible adventure that promises relaxation, natural beauty, and the quiet thrill of navigating one of England's most charming rivers. So, pack your paddle, prepare for serenity, and discover the Medway's magic for yourself.

Navigating The Medway From Sluice Weir Lock To Yalding.

Paddle Paradise. Part 2: 

The Medway Canoe Trial. Tonbridge Slipway To East Lock

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It has been 11 months since I last got out on the paddle, and 13 months since my last kayaking video. Unfortunately, due to an issue with my knees, I had to postpone my kayak camping trip in Norfolk that I had planned for this week. 

Not to be defeated, I brushed the cobwebbed off my Ranger One hybrid kayak and took myself off for a nice amble on the River Medway. Aided by neoprene knee supports, Deep Heat, and painkillers, I had a thoroughly enjoyable day out on the paddle. Other than exploring the little island at Porters Lock, I had a wonderful time checking out all the locks on my way back upstream. 

The downstream paddle was approximately 4 miles (6.5km), so I covered about 8 miles (13kg) out and back, portaging at 3 locks, and using 3 canoe passes going downstream. 

Lock distances traveling downstream from Tonbridge Slipway are, 

• Tonbridge Slipway to Town Lock 0.5 miles. 
• Town Lock to Eldridges Lock 1.25 miles. 
• Eldridges Lock to Porters Lock 1 mile.
• Porters Lock to East Lock 1.25 miles. 

8 miles out and back.

Kayaking - Teston Lock to East Farleigh Lock - (6.4 km round trip).

 It was a cold and dull day.

Parking at Teston Bridge Country Park, I took to the water for a gentle paddle from Teston Lock to East Farleigh Lock on the non-tidal River Medway. The total distance out and back was 6.4 km (4 miles).  Just a morning out on the river, not a soul in sight.

 

The Route: Teston Lock to East Farleigh Lock...

This is a fairly long, straight section through a relatively deep river valley.

Immediately after Teston Lock is Teston Bridge, then after that about a mile
to a new footbridge at Barming Bridge (this may be marked as a road bridge
on your map, but it isn't anymore).

The river continues on towards East Farleigh, passing some houses and
more boatyards as you approach East Farleigh Bridge, which is just before
the Lock on the left and the weirs on the right.

The sluices at Farleigh are old automatic curtain sluices and are not
shootable. The best portage is to get out on the river left just after the bridge
and before the lock and walk past the lock and about 75 metres down the towpath
to get in on the T-shaped wooden landing stage. It is possible to get in off
the rocks immediately below the lock, but it can be choppy here if the weirs
are open.

Teston Picnic Site / Lock:

There is a car park and public toilets at the picnic site . It is a 300 metres walk across the
mown field to the lock, where you can use the landing stages as mentioned
above.
There is a height barrier at the entrance to the car park, which as I recall is
set at about  2 metres  (6'6").

Website:: 

Teston Bridge Country Park Car Park:

Teston Lock:

The lock was originally constructed in the 1740s, when 14 locks were built to make the river navigable from Maidstone to Tonbridge, enabling the transport of iron products from the Weald. The current lock dates from 1911 and will take craft up to 24.5m by 5.6m with a draft of 1.7m.

Teston Bridge:

Teston Bridge dates to about the 15th century and is one of a series of medieval bridges across the River Medway. The three outer arches were rebuilt in the early 19th century. The bridge is constructed of roughly coursed Kentish ragstone and is a Grade 1 listed monument.

East Farleigh Bridge:

East Farleigh Bridge is a 14th-century road bridge of roughly coursed Kentish ragstone spanning the River Medway between Barming to the north and East Farleigh to the south. 

The bridge was originally built with four large, pointed arches, but a smaller arch was added later, spanning land. It is scheduled as an Ancient Monument and is considered to be the finest bridge in Southern England. It is a perfect example of medieval design and workmanship.

This monument allowed Cromwell’s 4000 parliamentary troops to march over it in 1648, where they met strong resistance in East Farleigh before marching towards Maidstone, to fight 6000 Royalist soldiers in the English Civil War.It underwent repair in 1843 and was refurbished in the early 21st century.

Easy Access Launch/Exit Point On The Non Tidal River Medway -6

 Yalding - Hampstead Lock No 7.

Easy access via either the slipway or canoe platform for your downstream paddle towards Teston Lock. To launch to travel upstream towards Yalding you will need to put in at the canoe platform on the far side of the lock.

Parking is very limited at the lock, however, there is a small car park at Yalding station which is 183 metres (61 yards) away.

Address: 

Hampstead Lane, Yalding, Maidstone ME18 6AD.

Easy Access Launch/Exit Point On The Non Tidal River Medway -5

 Medway Canoe Trail - Yalding Canoe Platform

Yalding canoe platform is located in Hampstead Lane, next to the environment office. Roadside parking is available adjacent to the launch site and for a considerable distance along Hampstead Lane. However, this is an extremely popular launch site and gets extremely busy with paddlers and people picnicking at weekends and during the school holidays in the warmer months. 

The map below highlights the total possible parking area on Hampstead Lane. 

Click on the map to enlarge.

When launching your canoe/kayak, you can paddle under the lift bridge upstream towards Tonbridge, the other direction take you downstream towards Hampstead Lock where you will have to portage to continue on your journey.

Toilet and shower facilities are available at the Environment Agency building (coin-operated), and there is also a fresh water tap.

Address:

Yalding Canoe Platform

Hampstead Lane, Yalding, Maidstone ME18 6HG

Easy Access Launch/Exit Point On The Non Tidal River Medway -4

Lees Car Park & Picnic Area, Yalding: (Click on photos to enlarge)

Lees Car Park is a massive field, and parking is paid for at the entrance barrier. The river is accessed via a slipway at the far right (Yalding Town Bridge end) of the field.

From this slipway, you are only able to paddle downstream towards Teston Lock. To travel upstream from Yalding, you will have to launch from either the Yalding Canoe platform or Hampstead Lock.

It is also possible to travel upstream by paddling downstream and taking the left turn at Hampstead Marina, this leads to Hampstead Lock. The distance from Lees Car Park and Hampstead Lock downstream is approximately 1.6 km (1 mile)

Please note, in the warmer weather when the water levels are low, it can be a challenge to launch your kayak/canoe as you may need to wad in some distance. Also, a launch can be hindered by the flow from the weir.

This is a great location for a family picnic, you can also access Teapot Island via a footbridge. 

Pro:

• Ample parking.
• Toilets.
• Slipway
• A great place for a picnic.
• Access to Teapot Island via a footbridge.

Con: 

• Can get waterlogged at certain times of the year.
• Difficult to launch when water levels are low.
• Only able to paddle downstream from this launch point

Address:

Lees Car Park and Picnic Area. Yalding, Maidstone ME18 6HG

Easy Access Launch/Exit Point On The Non Tidal River Medway -3

The Medway Canoe Trail - Tonbridge Slipway.

This is my go-to place if I just fancy an hour or two out on the paddle, or to clear my head. I also test out my new kayaks here. Although this is the official start of the Medway Canoe Trail, it is possible to paddle upstream as far as Leigh Flood Barrier, however, there is no launch or exit point at or near the flood barrier. 

Click on photos to enlarge

General Description: 

The slipway is directly opposite Tonbridge park and the river runs around the outside of the park in a complete circle which makes it ideal for novice kayakers, or those wanting to test their new kayaks for the first time. 

You can either turn left from the slipway and then take the next right traveling clockwise around the park or turn right from the slipway and travel anti-clockwise around the park. 

If you turn right, when you get to the railway bridge, turn right and follow the river upstream. The river is very scenic and includes opportunities to explore some minor tributaries. About 2 miles above Tonbridge you will reach the Leigh Flood Barrier. 

Following The Trail Downstream:

If you travel down to the lock (300m), you'll pass Tonbridge Castle on your left. 

How To Get There By Car:

Tonbridge is easily accessible from the A21 about 10 miles to the south of the M25 at Junction 5. 

On arrival at Tonbridge by car, follow the signs to the Swimming Pool and park in the Lower Castle Field Car Park, this is a Pay & Display car park. Free on Sundays.

For those with SatNavs, a nearby postcode is TN9 1HR

The  Launch Site:

There is a slipway at the end of the main car park on the far left.

Pro:

• Easy access slipway.
• Large car park.
• Little to no motorised craft from Leigh Flood Barrier to Town Lock.

Con:

• Pay & Display car park.
• Access to the park and swimming pool are via the car park, it can get extremely busy during the warmer months and school holidays.

The Slade, Tonbridge TN9 1HR

Easy Access Launch/Exit Point On The Non Tidal River Medway -2

 The Medway Canoe Trail.

At the end of the Medway Canoe Trail, Allington Lock is without doubt the easiest place to launch your canoe or kayak. The car park is within metres of the slipway and canoe platform. 

Click on photos to enlarge

To gain access to the slipway/canoe platform, you will need to pay your parking fee to the lockkeeper at the Environment Office on site. Included in your parking fee is access to the toilets and shower, the lockkeeper will give you the door code. There is no additional charge to launch your craft.

Allington Lock Parking:

Vehicles - £5

Vehicles with trailer - £10 per day

Pros:

• Easy access via slipway or canoe platform.
• Parking, toilets, and shower facilities.
• Freshwater tap.
• Camping available.
• Pub restaurant opposite the slipway.

Cons:

• Car park can fill up very quickly, arrive early to avoid disappointment.
• The section of the non-tidal river between Allington Lock and Maidstone can be quite busy during the week as there are often coxless fours training on this section of the river, At weekends there are lots of single sculls. These crafts can reach speeds of up to 21 km/h (13 mph), although the maximum speed on this section of the river is 5 knots (9 km/h-5.8 mph). Once you are through Maidstone town centre, the river narrower and becomes quieter and more like a canal. 

Contact Allington Lock and Slipway

Phone:  01622 752864

Website: www.allingtonlock.co.uk

Address:

Castle Rd, Allington, Maidstone ME16 0LU, UK

Novice Kayakers Launch/Exit Point On The Non-Tidal River Medway - 1

 I am frequently asked where is a good launch point for a novice kayaker on the non-tidal River Medway. 

Click on photo to enlarge

Teston Lock is accessed via Teston Bridge Country Park. The Teston Lock canoe platforms make light work of boarding and exiting your kayak/canoe. This said, there is a downside, the lock is 276 metres (300 yards) from the car parking area.

From Teston Lock you can head upstream towards Yalding, or downstream towards East Farleigh Lock.

Address:

Teston Bridge Country Park:

Teston Lane

Teston

Kent

ME18 5BX

Opening Times:

Opens: 8am

Closes: dusk or 4pm (whichever is earlier)

Parking:

Pay and display...

Monday to Friday

£1.50 per day.

Weekends and Bank Holidays

£2.50 per day.

Information correct at the time of publishing.

Website:

Teston Bridge Country Park