MEETUPS
Here I share places we plan to paddle. I would love you to join us for the trip.
My paddle buddy Allen and I and others I paddle with are very easygoing and have very little rules for our trips but I would kindly ask you to read the bottom of each event before contacting me.
DATE TBC
A fun 9 mile paddle on the Kennet and Avon Canal.
This is a cracking point-to-point paddle along one of the most attractive sections of the Kennet & Avon Canal, starting around Bathwick Hill/Bathwick in Bath and heading east through Bathampton and the Avon Valley towards Avoncliff Aqueduct.
Leaving Bath behind, the canal quickly becomes greener and more rural. The route passes Bathampton, then follows the hillside above the River Avon towards Claverton and Dundas Aqueduct.
We will then pass over the spectacular Avoncliff Aqueduct, where the canal crosses both the River Avon and railway. The Grade II* listed structure is over 100 metres long and is one of the most impressive pieces of engineering on the Kennet & Avon.
We end just before Bradford-on-Avon at the Tithe Barn.
A big advantage of this route for kayaking is that once you start above the Bath lock flight, there are no locks to portage.
THE INFORMAL BIT
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You are responsible for you own safety and insurance and must have all the correct licences.
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You will need your own craft.
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You will need to do all your own wider trip organising including transport logistics.
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You're a laugh and get on with most people.
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You can maintain a min of 2.5mph when paddling.
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The trip may be cancelled at short notice.
WINTER 2026
COCKLESHELL HEROES – MUSEUM TRIP
Discover the incredible story of Operation Frankton and see the original Cachalot canoe!
Join Tom for a special group visit to the Combined Military Services Museum in Maldon, Essex, home to Cachalot, the last surviving Cockle Mk II canoe associated with the legendary Cockleshell Heroes.
In December 1942, a small team of Royal Marines undertook one of the most daring missions of WWII, paddling deep into enemy territory to attack German shipping in Bordeaux.
We’ll explore the museum, discover the extraordinary story behind Operation Frankton and get up close to the historic canoe.
The plan: A morning museum visit, followed by an optional afternoon group paddle of approximately five miles on a scenic local waterway, subject to conditions and route confirmation.
📍 Location: Maldon, Essex
📅 Date: Winter 2026/27 – TBC
🛶 Afternoon paddle: Approximately 5 miles – TBC
🎟️ Museum admission: Additional cost
Interested in joining us? Get in touch to register your interest.
A fascinating day of kayaking history, wartime adventure and great company!