Yes, you will need an Essex Waterways Canoe Licence. Day, week, month and annual licences are available.

Although the Upper Chelmer is mentioned in British Canoeing’s guide, this does not include the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation.  

The easiest way is to buy your canoe licence online.

Licences can also be obtained from our Paper Mill office, Daisy Meadow kiosk or the lockkeeper at Heybridge Basin or from the River Warden.

These licence fees apply to all non-powered craft including all canoes, dinghies, inflatables and paddleboards.

• Annual – £35
• One Week – £14
• One Day – £5
• Group Discounts: 5+ craft: 10%

Canadian canoes and kayaks are available to hire from our Paper Mill office, and from Daisy Meadow kiosk at Heybridge Basin – 7 days per week.  Lifejackets, oars, third-party insurance and licence are all included in the price.

Prices, per session:

• Canadian Canoes (two people) : £25.00
• Single Kayaks : £20.00
• Double Kayaks : £25.00

There is usually no objection to canoeists or paddleboarders using the backwaters, except at Hoe Mill and Rickett’s locks, which are particularly sensitive fishing areas. 

Canoes and paddleboards must not pass through locks. 

Weirs and weir streams are for experienced canoeists only, and need to be treated with care. 

Canoeists and paddle boarders should be aware of the increased risks during periods of high water levels, and should keep a look out for motorised vessels at all times.

There is canoe, kayak and dinghy storage available for an annual charge of £80.00

For enquiries about canoe and kayak storage please contact the Heybridge lockkeeper (for Heybridge Basin only) or the Paper Mill office (essex@waterways.org.uk or 01245 226245).