Introduction

Leeds Canoe Club was established in 1947 and was the first to be set up in West Yorkshire. Over the years many members have been successful in representing Great Britain at World Championship and Olympic level.

Where do you meet?

The club is based in Kirkstall in Leeds on the banks of the river Aire. The club is very active, with pool sessions at Armley swimming pool throughout the year on Thursday evenings, and on the river Aire on Tuesday evenings from Easter until September.

What does the club have to offer?

The club emphasis is on recreational paddling, and we encourage paddlers of all ages, and families to get involved. We have a number of boats suited for all types of paddlers, including those with disabilities, and there is easy access to the river from the clubhouse. For newcomers, special pool sessions provide orientation and basic training by qualified coaches and experienced paddlers – current details are available on the Leeds Canoe Club Website.

The club runs various trips for a wide variety of ability throughout the year, as well as various special events. Day trips are run most Sundays, usually to fairly local venues, including the rivers Wharfe, Aire, Tees and Ure. Weekend trips are run every month or so, and include trips to Wales, the Lake District and Scotland. The club also arranges longer trips at home and overseas, including trips to the Alps (French and Austrian), Scotland and Dublin (for the Liffey Descent).

Although concentrating on white water paddling, the club encourages participation in a number of disciplines, including slalom, surfing and canoe polo. Training and assessment is available for 1 and 2 star BCU awards within the club, and course are regularly arranged for 3 star, Canoe Safety Test, Aquatic First Aid and White Water Safety and Rescue. All paddlers are encouraged to obtain the Canoe Safety Test and Aquatic First Aid. The club has a strong social element with cinema trips, ice skating, pie ‘n peas, Guy Fawkes and Christmas parties, to name only a few Leeds Canoe Club is stronger than ever, and offers round the year paddling and fun for all!

For more information, please visit the club website at www.leedscanoeclub.org.uk