Day 1: A low-water paddle on the Dart Loop (5 km, Grade 2/3)
Today set the tone of the trip, with rocky challenges but a pleasant start. Evening antics at the bunkhouse included cider, whisky, and plenty of laughs.

Day 2: The River Teign (8 km, Grade 2/3)
The River Teign proved tough with low water, requiring frequent portages and some bruising encounters with rocks. A dramatic swim underscored the importance of safety planning. The day ended with a hearty meal at Dartbridge Inn.

Day 3: Back on the Dart Loop
Today included a full team of nine paddlers, including two newcomers, which wrapped up the weekend with confidence, despite a single swim and tricky low levels.

Despite challenges, the trip was filled with camaraderie, adventure, and lessons learned, making it one to remember!

Trip report and photos

Day 1: Arrival and settling in

After a long drive from Letchworth, the group arrived at their farmhouse accommodation on the Achaderry Estate. The evening was spent relaxing in the hot tub and enjoying a pre-cooked spaghetti bolognese dinner.

Day 2: Arkaig

With storms brewing, the group scouted the River Arkaig and embarked on their first paddle. Despite some challenges, including Jon feeling unwell, everyone managed the rapids well. The day ended with a power cut due to the storm.

Day 3: River Roy

Post-storm, the River Roy was high but navigable. The focus was on improving lateral movement. After a successful morning paddle, some members went for a second run. Dinner was a spicy curry in Fort William.

Day 4: Findhorn

A scenic drive to the Findhorn included a hearty Scottish breakfast. The river offered stunning views and challenging rapids. Mike had a mishap and had to walk out due to an injury, but the group managed to recover his boat.

Day 5: Spean Gorge

With Mike resting his leg, the group tackled Spean Gorge. They practiced eddy hopping and navigated tricky features. Despite a few swims, everyone enjoyed the descent. The day ended with fajitas and beer slushies.

Day 6: River Etive

The much-anticipated River Etive did not disappoint. The group successfully navigated several challenging rapids, with a few swims and some impressive runs. The day concluded with pizza and craft beer in Fort William.

Day 7: River Awe

Opting for a shorter paddle, the group enjoyed the River Awe’s grade 2 and 3 rapids. The trip ended with a scenic paddle and a final dinner at the Bothy Bar in Kinlochleven.

Trip report and photos

Twice a year BDCC exclusively hires the Lee Valley Legacy course to provide members with access to this artificial, grade 2-3, white water facility.

Each time we have hired the course we attract 30 members from BDCC, and from Waveny Canoe Club who regularly join us for this event.

We are very fortunate to be supported by the Mid-Shires Search & Rescue team that
provide bank safety and get the opportunity to test their drysuits in an end of session swim!!

Paddlers of all levels of experience join the 2 hr session and are supported with coaching, with novice paddlers starting on the flat water lake and progressing to the moving water environment.

Our next event will be in April 2025 - we hope to see you there!

Trip report and photos

Day 1: Symonds Yat

The group arrived at Symonds Yat and spent the afternoon practicing ferry gliding and breaking in and out of the main flow. John McKenzie achieved his first combat roll! They then drove to Rhayader and settled into their accommodation at Ty Morgans guest house. Dinner was at the Castle Inn, offering good value pub grub.

Day 2: Marteg Confluence with Wye to Rhayader

The river was low, making for a challenging day with several grade 2/3 rapids. The group had to portage some rapids due to low water levels or technical difficulty. After finishing the paddle, they sought coffee and cake but ended up at the Castle Inn for drinks. Dinner plans changed due to a low hygiene rating at the Spice Hut, so they enjoyed a meal at the Lamb and Flag instead.

Day 3: Rhayader to Llanwrthwl

With the river at a good flow, the group enjoyed a fun day of paddling with lots of grade 2/3 rapids. They encountered a problematic tree branch but managed to navigate it with some difficulty. The day ended with a long, winding rapid before the get-out bridge, followed by a 4.5-hour drive home.

This trip was a mix of challenges and achievements, with everyone improving their paddling skills. Looking forward to more adventures in the future!

Trip report and photos