The Scottish River Dee – A paddler’s guide and tales of the riverbank

This is the first full paddling guide to the River Dee—one of Scotland’s great rivers—completed posthumously by friends of Jonathan Kitching, the river’s long-time advisor, conservation advocate, and founder of Aboyne Canoe Club. Combining practical advice with local stories, the book reflects Jonathan’s deep connection to the river and his commitment to sharing it.

Divided into ten river sections, the guide follows the Dee from its upper reaches near the Cairngorms to its tidal end near Aberdeen. Each chapter includes clear information for paddlers—distance, grade, and access points—paired with detailed notes on landmarks, rapids, bridges, and crossings, many visible only from the water. It's an indispensable companion for canoeists, but equally insightful for walkers, cyclists, swimmers and anyone travelling the Deeside corridor.

What makes this book stand out is its second half—Tales of the Riverbank. These sections go beyond the practical to explore the human stories behind the river: its history, folklore, buildings, farming traditions, and old ferry points. Rich with photographs contributed by local paddlers and enthusiasts, it captures the character of the Dee in both its natural form and its community context.

All proceeds from the book go to Friends of ANCHOR, the cancer support charity that helped care for Jonathan during his illness. Every purchase supports their work across the north of Scotland.