Kayaking is a great workout challenge and a fun way to soak up the rare London sun. We recently found the perfect place to pick up a paddle – right in the heart of East London. The Castle Canoe Club is a canoe/kayak club based at the West Reservoir Centre, a tranquil body of water just off Green Lanes, Stoke Newington. Your first session at the club is free (so there is no excuse not to try it) and they have a huge range of equipment available for use.
The atmosphere is very laid back and the instructors are encouraging, making you feel comfortable as you prepare for splash down. After a quick briefing you are free to get on the water. Do a few laps of the reservoir, or if you’re feeling a little more confident, practice flipping the kayak in an Eskimo roll with an instructor. You will be surprised at how quickly your arms start to ache, but there is something reviving about slicing through the water.
To reward your hard work you can relax and grab a coffee at the café next door after, while watching the pros battle it out in a game of canoe polo.
The club is open on Sunday mornings from 10.00am to 1.00pm and Tuesday evenings from 6pm to 8pm in Spring, summer and Autumn. There is no need to book, just turn up! If you enjoy yourself you can sign up for a membership on the spot.
