Comfortable Kit | Meandering Rapids | Silently Scenic
Key Points:
Slow it down on a scenic river journey through the hidden Eden Valley in Cumbria.
ADULTS – £85
UNDER 16 -£75
The Eden River Safari is a family-friendly rafting experience on the River Eden in Cumbria, perfect for families, mixed-ability groups, and anyone looking for a relaxed outdoor adventure in the Lake District and Eden Valley.
This is not traditional white water rafting. Instead, the Eden River Safari is a scenic river journey that focuses on nature, wildlife, and exploration, with gentle flowing water, fun splashy sections, and one exciting rapid near the end to finish on a high. It’s ideal for families with children, first-time rafters, and those wanting a longer, more immersive river experience.
The trip runs Near Lazonby and travels along a seven-mile stretch of the River Eden that flows through a largely private valley. With no roads or footpaths, the river is the only way through creating a peaceful, wild-feeling adventure that’s rare to find in Cumbria.
We only run one Eden River Safari per day, allowing plenty of time to move at the pace of the group. Along the way, there’s time for river games, gentle challenges, wildlife watching, and exploring the banks, as well as moments to simply relax and enjoy the tranquillity.
This stretch of the River Eden is rich in wildlife. It’s common to see kingfishers, herons, ospreys, peregrine falcons, and a wide range of other birds and river life. Your guides, Dan and Jack, are highly experienced local instructors with a deep knowledge of white water environments, river safety, and Cumbria’s landscapes, and they’re always happy to share what they know.
With a minimum group size of three, the Eden River Safari is a standout option for family rafting in Cumbria, school-age children, and groups wanting a safe, educational, and memorable day on the river. It’s an experience designed to leave you feeling connected to nature, refreshed, and properly part of the river
Swimwear to wear under your kit
A towel and dry clothes for after
Sturdy closed-toe footwear that can get wet
Any personal medication you may need
We recommend:
A good breakfast beforehand
Bringing snacks or a packed lunch if you’d like this is a long, relaxed day on the river
We’ll provide weather-appropriate drinks and some snacks along the way.
A full-day guided river journey with experienced instructors
All specialist safety equipment (helmet, buoyancy aid, wetsuit if needed)
A relaxed safety briefing and river introduction
Time to explore, play games, spot wildlife, and enjoy the valley at your pace
A unique journey through a hidden, largely private stretch of the Eden Valley
Location:
This trip runs on the River Eden from Lazonby to Armathwaite, travelling through a secluded valley that’s only accessible by water.
Start & finish:
The day starts and finishes right next to a brilliant local pub, making it the perfect place to wrap up your river journey.
Pace:
We only run one Eden River Safari per day, so there’s no rush. The pace is set by the group, with plenty of time to stop, explore, and enjoy the surroundings.
Group size:
Minimum of 3 people to run the trip. Ideal for families, mixed-ability groups, and anyone wanting a deeper connection to the river.
This trip is far less dependent on water levels than whitewater rafting.
Even at low water, the Eden Safari remains scenic, engaging, and rewarding
Expect gentle rapids throughout, with one larger rapid near the end to keep things exciting
If rafting conditions elsewhere aren’t right, this trip is often the perfect alternative, calmer, wilder, and just as memorable.
Dan and Jack are deeply passionate about this valley and love sharing its wildlife, history, and hidden corners as part of the journey.
