About

SUP Bristol offers instructor-led Paddleboarding and Kayaking adventures through Bristol’s historic Floating Harbour, giving visitors a completely different perspective on the city. 

Based at Baltic Wharf, our friendly, qualified instructors make it easy for beginners to get on the water. No previous experience is needed and all essential equipment is provided.  

Groups can learn new skills, build confidence and explore the harbour together, surrounded by Bristol’s maritime history, colourful waterfront and lively harbourside atmosphere. 

SUP Bristol launched in 2014 and has since introduced tens of thousands of people to Paddleboarding and Kayaking. The original idea was inspired by founders Tim Trew and Kate Ingham discovering Paddleboarding while cycle touring in New Zealand, and the team has paddled across four continents. In 2025, SUP Bristol joined the Mendip Adventure family of outdoor businesses. 

Key selling points for groups

• No previous experience required. 

• Friendly, qualified instructors, with an instructor-to-participant ratio of 1:8. 

• Private group sessions available for up to 30 people. 

• All essential equipment provided, including Paddleboards or Kayaks, paddles and buoyancy aids. 

• Indoor changing facilities, toilets, hot showers and secure storage for belongings. 

• A city-centre adventure that feels active and outdoorsy without requiring groups to travel into the countryside. 

• Suitable for corporate groups, schools, youth organisations, adult social groups, families, celebrations, hen parties and stag parties.

• Sessions can be shaped around the group, from relaxed sightseeing and confidence-building to challenges and friendly races. 

• SUP Bristol is fully AALA licensed for activities involving young people, with school-ready risk assessments available. 

• Easy to combine with Bristol’s restaurants, pubs, museums, visitor attractions and wider harbourside experiences. 

• Part of Mendip Adventure, an experienced, family-run outdoor activity provider established in 1987.

Useful information for travel trade

The base is approximately a 25-minute walk from Bristol city centre and around 35 minutes from Bristol Temple Meads station. Regular ferry services also connect the city centre and Temple Meads area with the Cottage Inn landing. 

Sessions operate in most weather conditions. They may be postponed in very strong winds or during thunder and lightning. Where a session cannot operate safely, SUP Bristol will initially seek to reschedule it and offer a refund if this is not possible.

Group booking procedures 

• SUP Bristol has a dedicated group enquiry process through supbristol.com. Smaller groups can book online, while groups of 11 or more are directed to the enquiry form.  Groups can also email or call.

Group sizes and event capacity 

• Private group sessions can accommodate up to 30 people, normally working to an instructor ratio of 1:10.

Coach access and parking 

• Dedicated coach parking is available at the SUP Bristol base on Cumberland Road, close to Spike Island, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Coach access, drop-off and waiting arrangements should be confirmed in advance. 
• There is limited free car parking at the harbour base. Additional paid parking is available near Brunel’s SS Great Britain, approximately five to ten minutes’ walk away.

Product development and partnerships

SUP Bristol became part of the Mendip Adventure family in 2025. This creates opportunities to combine a Bristol city experience with Mendip Adventure’s wider range of outdoor activities and group accommodation. 

They also work with nearby attractions, venues and caterers in Bristol to provide meeting space, catering and more.