Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre will be running their second annual Paddlefest event on 26th-27th September, based at their site at Shadwell Basin, London E1.
Aimed at people who already kayak or canoe, the Activity Centre is aiming to celebrate and share their paddling experience, encouraging people to gain new skills, try out new things and socialise with other paddlers. Shadwell Basin is an ideal location, having both access to the tidal Thames, and usage of a large Victorian shipping basin.
Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre will be using both of these for a fun filled and action packed weekend, involving workshops, river paddles, demo boats, evening lectures and a bar and BBQ on Saturday evening.
The Shadwell Basin Paddlefest will be held on the weekend of the 26th– 27th of September. The Sunday sees the annual “No Tide Day” on the river, when the Thames Barrier is closed for the full day, giving a great opportunity to experience the Thames at its calmest.
The cost is £20/£40 for the day/ weekend. Accommodation is available on the Saturday night for £10 and is basic with access to a hall and camp beds. Equipment such as buoyancy aids, waterproofs and a limited number of boats are available over the weekend. If you would like to bring your own personal boats that is great and secured storage is available overnight.
Paddlefest workshops
Intro to Tidal Paddling – Aimed at 1-2 Star paddlers who have not paddled in tidal environments but are interested in experiencing the tidal Thames, developing their skills and river knowledge. (Saturday morning/afternoon/Sunday afternoon)
Thames Trips (Westminster) – Paddle the Thames and experience some of London’s most iconic landmarks from the River. Aimed at 2 stars and above with previous tidal experience. (Saturday morning/ Sunday Morning London Bridge)
Shadwell Pool Architecture Tour (River) –Take to the water in some kayak doubles and enjoy a guided tour around the Shadwell pool area of the River Thames. Explore the architecture by kayak that makes this part of London Unique. Suitable for 1 star and above. (Sunday Morning)
Advanced Sea Kayak Skills – Practice and share your sea paddling skills, refresh your knowledge to deal with demanding situations on the River in a tidal environment. (Sunday morning/ afternoon)
Open Canoe Solo Skills – Come and learn the art of solo canoeing, move through the water with grace and progress your canoe paddling. (Saturday morning/ Sunday morning/ Afternoon)
Bush Craft Skills – Learn the art of fire lighting, tarp set ups and other skills for the moments when you live out of your kayak. (Saturday afternoon/ Sunday afternoon)
Canoe Polo – Come down and enjoy a game of canoe polo, compete against other teams and have some fun.(Saturday Afternoon)
Demo boat/ Fun session– Use our boats, your own boat or demo boats and mess around on the water playing a mix of games and challenges. (Saturday Afternoon/ Sunday Afternoon)
Boat Repair/Tidal Planning – Learn how to repair boats both composite and fibreglass for short term/ long term situations and plan trips on the Tidal Thames. (Saturday morning/ afternoon)
Thames Leader Training/ Safety Management – Aimed at Level 2 coaches and/ or 4 star paddlers who would like to learn the skills required to lead groups on the Tidal Thames in appropriate sheltered conditions.
Paddlefest bookings
Bookings can be made online via their website: www.shadwell-basin.co.uk/event/paddlefest-2015
