Battersea Bridge Loop (Short)

3.5 km·beginner·short route·Loop

Gentle loop upstream to Battersea Bridge and back. Head east along the north bank, round the bridge, return along the south bank. Stay within 50m of shore at all times. Good for beginners on a calm day.

Tidal strategy: Best paddled on the flood tide (upstream, towards the turn point), turning at high water slack, then riding the ebb back.

Exit Points Along This Route

Imperial Wharf Foreshore(foreshore)

Your launch point. Foreshore access via stairs.

0 km
Battersea Bridge Steps (North)(steps)

Stone steps on upstream side of Battersea Bridge, north bank. Slippery — use with care.

1.5 km
Battersea Bridge Steps (South)(steps)

Steps on south bank at Battersea Bridge. Access to Battersea Park.

1.8 km
Wandsworth Bridge Steps(steps)

Steps on south bank near Wandsworth Bridge. Useful for downstream bailout.

3.5 km

Hazards on This Route

Chelsea Harbour Marina EntranceAVOID

Active marina entrance. Motor vessels entering/exiting. Give wide berth and pass on the downstream side.

Battersea Railway Bridge PiersCAUTION

Strong eddies form around bridge piers on ebb tide. Pass through the centre arch. Avoid hugging piers.

Battersea Bridge PiersCAUTION

Five-arch bridge with narrow spans. Pass through centre arch. Current accelerates through the arches.

Cremorne Wharf MooringsCAUTION

Houseboats and barges moored along north bank. Give clearance — mooring chains extend underwater. Do not paddle between moored vessels and the wall.