The History

Gloucester Canoe Club (GCC) was founded hundreds of years ago by a chap who enjoyed paddling rivers, getting fresh air and sampling alcoholic beverages from all over the land.  In fact it’s members activities have not changed a great deal since!  We are a mixed bunch of friendly people ranging from the young to the old, all with a shared interest in paddling and socialising.

Paddlers of all levels are welcomed – existing members range from those who have paddled all over the world to those just starting out.  There is always someone to paddle with and others to offer advise.  The club is affiliated to the British Canoe Union (BCU).

Where are we?

GCC is based near to the Maisemore weir, turn right at the Whitehart Maisemore. Our base offers storage for boats and a launch site onto the river Severn.  A 10 minute paddle from here will find you at the weir or if you prefer to go up stream, about 30 minutes to the Boat at Ashleworth.  The flat water at our launch site makes it ideally suited to the needs of beginners.  The club also runs pool sessions in the winter months if you would like to learn the finer points of the Eskimo roll in warmer water!

When do we meet?

The club meet every Tuesday night between March and October at our boat store.  Members are there between 6 and 6.30 hatching plans for the evenings paddling and entertainment if you would like more information or to join in.  The first Tuesday of every month is training night where BCU coaches and experienced paddlers will be on hand to help you with all aspects of your paddling, you ask and we can sort it out.  If you don’t fancy getting wet don’t forget that you will normally find a good bunch of friendly paddlers and none paddlers in the Whitehart at Maisemore from about 8pm onwards, all welcome.

Activities

There are things going on most weekends, members will benefit from contacts with like-minded people, ask and most things can be arranged or someone else will be up for joining you.  

River trips – The club has paddlers of all abilities and as such runs rivers to suit and challenge these abilities.  We have paddlers who enjoy flat water paddling, through to those who run grade IV Rivers with huge waterfalls!!  Between us we organise day trips weekends and foreign tours.

The Severn Bore – You will no doubt be aware of it. It is a tidal phenomenon; one of only a few in the world and it’s on our doorstep!!  Several times a year it is possible to surf the tidal wave as it charges up the Severn estuary, achieved distances range from a few metres to several miles. Obviously inexperienced paddlers should not consider this, as it is a serious undertaking, however with the right training and guidance, you to could join the Bore Warriors.

Surfing – Due to the proximity of many good surfing locations nearby in the South West and South Wales it would be rude not to!  GCC members organise several surfing weekends a year.  There are also more spontaneous day surf trips that smaller groups of the club enjoy.  Surfing is an activity suitable for all canoeing abilities, whether in a kayak or on a board!

Social events – Members regularly enjoy a drink after a hard evenings paddling as well as other events like BBQ’s, Weekends camping (not always with boats), Foreign trips, Curry nights and an annual dinner.

Membership details

Membership runs from January to December, please pick up a membership form from the treasurer or other committee members.  You are more than welcome to come along and try us out; we have a range of equipment for members to use.  We do make a small charge for use of equipment by non-members.
Get an application form HERE