IF the daily commute is grinding you down then try a more peaceful way of getting about by hiring a canoe for the day.

At Monmouth Canoe and Activity Centre both beginners and experienced canoeists are welcome.

For novices an instructor can provide two hours basic training for the whole family followed by a short river tour.

The centre is fully licensed with the Adventure Activity Licensing Authority (AALA), which means under 18s are welcome to come along, and they take out family groups with children aged eight and above.

The more experienced canoeist can hire a canoe then head out for the day to explore the River Wye at their own pace.

There is a choice between Canadian canoes, which seat between two and four people, or single seat kayaks.

For the adventurous a canoe can be hired for the week. By spending the nights at campsites or bed and breakfasts life can be taken at a slower pace, with the days spent passing through the beautiful towns of Hay-on-Wye, Hereford and Ross-on-Wye.

Heading upstream from Monmouth there are more than 80 miles of river to explore and alert canoeists will spot kingfishers, herons, cormorants and swans.

Sue Symonds at the canoe centre will organise training or canoe hire to meet specific requirements. Lizzie Smith

Factfile Booking is essential, but canoes and training are available seven days a week. Basic training starts at £30 for two hours and hiring a Canadian canoe costs £30 for a day. For more information or to book call Sue on 01600 713461.