The River Avon Navigation starts at the junction with the River Severn, near Tewksbury, and ends at the limit of navigation just past Stratford on Avon.
This guide Covers the section covered by the Avon Navigation Trust. There are locks that are manned, and the river is wide enough so that craft can pass each other at the same time.
There are signs at the locks indicating the river levels. GREEN, Normal navigable level, ORANGE Increased current, proceed with caution and RED Danger - stop and moor your boat (River in Flood)
The river is very rural, with few locks. Making it a ideal place to paddle your canoe/kayak. The weirs often have been paddled in canoes and kayaks, though by people who know them well.
If you do want to shoot the weirs, get advice from someone who has paddled there before and take account of the river levels.
More information is available from the Avon Navigation Trust.