Whitney-on-Wye

Whitney on Wye is a small village just inside the Herefordshire border and also the home to a rather splendid toll bridge – Whitney-on-Wye toll bridge is a single-carriageway, wood- and stone-construction that you will paddle directly underneath on the Hay to Whitney route.

The toll bridge, one of only seven remaining privately owned toll bridges in the uk, carries the B4350 south from its junction with the A438, across the River Wye.

It comprises two Grade II listed structures. A bridge was first built at the site around 1780 following authorisation by Act of Parliament and with the agreement of Tomkyns Dew, the lord of the manor. The stone structure of five bays replaced a ferry that had been operated by Dew. This bridge and two successors of similar design were all destroyed by flooding on the river, the last in 1795.

want to canoe? is a family-run business operating out of Hay on Wye just up river from the bridge.

We are the number one choice for River Wye canoe hire and are fully-equipped to set you and your family or friends up with all you need to fully explore the Wye Valley in the most memorable way. We will provide you with everything you need (except for sandwiches and cake). Any questions? Just give us a call – we’re a veritable fountain of useful local info!

Let us help you plan the ultimate activity-packed escapade, or just a leisurely afternoon on the water, accompanying the swans, otters and all the other characters that call the River Wye home. When you canoe with us you’re in safe, capable hands and a team who have grown up in and around the River Wye, we welcome you to our home turf.

We have helped heaps of happy customers create amazing memories for themselves as they paddle through miles of unspoilt countryside, beautiful orchards, quirky little towns and historic villages. As the Wye’s premier left bank canoe hire centre, want to canoe? have forged an enviable reputation for providing unforgettable experiences to people of all ages and fitness levels.

Have a browse round the website, then give us a call with any questions – we’re here to help!

Have a look at all our route itineraries here.

Here are all the Whitney-on-Wye canoe hire trips:

hay – whitney | estimated time: half a day

Hay to Whitney is a 5.25 mile paddle starting in the picturesque town of Hay-on-Wye. “Hay”, often described as “the town of books”, is home to the famous literary festival. […] Read more