Do I need to book online?

No, you don’t but if you wish to guarantee your equipment of choice, it is better to book online and you make a small saving by doing so in the process. You can still turn up to book at the office onsite however we can’t guarantee the equipment will be available – especially through Summer months.

Please complete all disclaimers prior to your arrival onsite as this saves time and makes for a smoother check-in. If you have additional members in your group, please invite adults when booking.

When should I get here?

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your hire or session. This will help us get you ready to go out on the water and on time for your session.

Do I have to do a disclaimer?

Yes. All participating adults must complete a disclaimer and sign to acknowledge our rules and regulations.

Do I have to wear a buoyancy aid?

Yes. As part of our PaddleUK Centre recognition and our insurance, all persons going on the water with a craft must wear a buoyancy aid. It is also best practice for you to be wearing a personal floatation device should anything happen to you and your craft.

What is the difference between a lifejacket and a buoyancy aid?

A buoyancy aid is designed to be used for activity and aids your buoyancy during recreational activity. A lifejacket is more often used at sea and will deploy it’s float when you hit the water, it will also turn you on to your back and protect your head.  

Do I need to bring anything?

You need to bring with you clothes or swimwear that you do not mind getting wet. A pair of wet shoes or close toe shoes you do not mind getting wet. If you need a wetsuit you can always hire one from us.

If you are on an instructed activity with us we provide everything else you need, including wetsuit.

If you are hiring or Bringing Your Own, a waterproof pouch for your mobile is worth having and bringing in case of emergencies.

Can my child go on the water on their own?

No. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18. 

16 and 17 year olds can go on the water unaccompanied but must have a person aged 18 or over on site 

Any children under 9 must be on the same craft as their guardian.

Parents and guardians may look after up to 6 young people when hiring craft.

When do you open?

Our times vary with the seasons, but hiring and sessions mostly start at 10:00 through until 17:00 

Can you wild swim in the reservoir?

No. Due to the body of water being an operational reservoir wild swimming is not permitted in the reservoir.

We offer an Open Water Swimming Taster and Session for those wishing to do orgniased swimming where you can do laps of our open water swimming course under supervision.

Can I use my own craft on the reservoir?

Yes. We allow people to bring their own boards and sit on/inflatable kayaks to Ardingly Reservoir. You must either book online or come and speak to us at the office to book onto the water. You will need to bring a buoyancy aid for each person and ensure you have third party liability insurance. This can be gained through Paddle Uk ,RYA, BSUPA or other providers.

Outboard engines, including electric, are not permitted on any craft.

Do you accept Childcare Vouchers?

Not yet! This is something we are working on and intend to be able to offer in the future. Keep a look out for updates.