THE Bude Canoe Experience has paddled to the top, claiming the coveted Cornwall Tourism Awards ‘Guided Tour of the Year 2018/19’.

The Bude Canoe Experience was awarded the gold trophy for Guided Tour of the Year 2018/19 at Truro Cathedral recently. It was then put forward for the South West Tourism Awards and received ‘Highly Commended’.

The canoe experience was founded five years ago by Paul Clark, a British canoeing instructor and leader.

Paul, an enthusiastic canoeist, wanted to provide experiences with a difference — an experience where participants would feel fully accomplished by the end; an experience where they would not only learn to paddle a canoe, but see wildlife, learn about the waterways’ history and complete an exciting journey.

Most canoe experiences take place on the beautiful Bude Canal. It is 2.5 miles long and abundant with wildlife, including the endangered water vole, and rich in local history. Experiences last from two to four hours.

The longer durations allow people to get away from the crowds and explore right off the beaten track.

The Bude experience base is at Southcombe Farm. Here, Paul is supported by his parents Jim and Eileen Clark.

In the busy summer months they are an invaluable part of the team helping to move canoes between locations and other logistical tasks.

Paul said: “Looking to the future, we intend to grow and keep improving the Bude Canoe Experience for our customers. Lastly, we would like to thank all of our fantastic customers and everyone who has helped us along the way.”