The River Avon in the UK refers to several distinct waterways sharing the name. The most prominently documented for paddling are the Warwickshire Avon (Shakespeare's Avon) and the Bristol/Bath Avon.

The Warwickshire Avon is approximately 85 miles long and one of the major tributaries of the River Severn. It flows through Stratford-upon-Avon and the Vale of Evesham, passing through towns including Bidford-on-Avon, Evesham, Pershore, and Tewkesbury. The river is characterised by a gentle flow and scenic countryside, making it suitable for recreational paddlers including families. A popular 10.2-mile route runs from Stratford-upon-Avon (parking at Fisherman's Car Park, CV37 0NP) to Bidford-on-Avon, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours. Another documented route covers 8 miles from Bidford-on-Avon to Evesham, passing Marcliff, Harvington, and Offenham locks and weirs. A shorter trip of approximately 8.5km near Fladbury and Pershore in Worcestershire starts from the Mill Bank car park near Cropthorne and takes 3 to 4 hours, with the option to extend to Pershore by leaving a second vehicle there.

There are 17 locks on the Warwickshire Avon, all requiring portaging. Some locks have signed, easy portage points, while others use moorings that may be awkward for kayaks. All paddlecraft — kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and rowboats — require a valid licence to navigate the river. Licences are managed by the Avon Navigation Trust (ANT) and start from £6 for short-term use. British Canoeing annual membership is also accepted. Inflatable toys and homemade rafts are not permitted. Mooring charges apply at locations including Tewkesbury and Stratford-upon-Avon.

The Bristol/Bath Avon rises in South Gloucestershire and flows through Wiltshire and Bath to the Severn Estuary. Although only 13 miles from source to mouth as the crow flies, the actual river length is approximately 75 miles. From Hanham Lock downstream into Bristol, a day ticket is required, purchasable from the Bristol Harbour Office at approximately £7. British Canoeing membership covers the section from Hanham Lock to Thimble Mill in Bath. The river can be wide in sections, making it susceptible to wind.

Wildlife along the Warwickshire Avon includes ducks, geese, and swans. The Hampshire/Salisbury Avon, flowing approximately 60km from Salisbury to Christchurch, has significant access restrictions due to private fishing rights, with paddling largely limited to short permitted sections.