New members’ evenings

All new members joining the club must attend a New Members Evening unless they have attended an Introduction to White Water Course.

Experienced paddlers can email [email protected] to talk through alternatives, but we may still ask you to join us on a Monday.

What happens on the night

Each session runs on a Monday, 6:30-8:30pm, within Islington Basin:

16 Graham St, London N1 8JY

Please register via Eventbrite (below) so we’ve got the right numbers to support you. If you arrive late, or without registering, you may be asked to come back another time.

The session starts with an introduction to the club and an opportunity to ask questions. We’ll take you through some safety essentials, how the canal works and how you can get involved in wider club activities.

Once we’re ready, it’ll be onto the water! We ask you to join via credit or debit card before paddling. We’ll then work through some essentials (forwards, backwards, stop!), giving you a chance to practise and play under supervision of our volunteers.

To become a member, you must complete the full New Members Evening.

What you need to wear and what to expect

Our Graham Street site does have showers, so you’re welcome to bring a towel and a change of clothes – just in case!

On the water, stick with synthetic material (gym or jogging clothes) and some old trainers you don’t mind getting a bit damp.

Expect a thorough chat, some manual lifting (just the boats) and a light bit of kayaking; with a potential pub visit to finish.

We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, open space for everyone to share in our love of the sport. If you’ve never sat in a boat before, if you’re starting a hobby after years of hiatus or if you’ve just won an Olympic medal, we’d love to meet you!

Booking a place

The next New Members Evenings (or options to join the wait list) are below. See you there!