elyob wrote:
I've got a little idea brewing where I take a canoe/kayak up the Thames and
camp out etc etc.

For a start I would try canoeing down the Thames it's a lot easier.

That's as far as I've got. I investigated a school recently and may start
training on their equipment soon. However, am unsure whether to go for canoe
or kayak. I won't be carrying tons of stuff, but will still have a weeks
worth or so. Maybe as much as a tent, sleeping bag and clothes etc ..

I would go for a kayak, it's also easier.

Also, I see some fibre glass canoes going pretty cheaply, but haven't got
anywhere to store one at the moment. So, should I consider renting one, or
finding a neighbour with a garden I can hide it in when not in use?

Hide it ina neighbour's garden.

What sort of kayak/canoe should I look at for this type of beginners tour?
I've used one previously that was in a friends garden, but it got really
uncomfortable on my back from leaning back on the entrance edge. Is this
because it may have been too small for me? I'm 6ft, 16st.

No, it's probably because you have the wrong paddling technique and lack
of stamina so you are lying back in your seat when paddling. Sit up when
paddling. It will probably be difficult to start with, but by the time
you have paddled down the Thames, you will not think twice about it.

Buy a long, thin canoe that initially feels a bit unstable.

What sort of distance would you expect to cover per day?

How many pubs do you intend to call at :-). Depends on how much sight
seeing you want to do. 20 miles a day might be a reasonable target -
This probably equates to about 5 or 6 hours a day paddling. In order to
pass through the locks quickly I recommend going to the front of the
queue of boats and fitting into the odd space left by the cruisers etc..
Hold on to a chain. Oh yes, nearly forgot, you need a license.

Thanks for any advice

Have fun.

Bill