Symonds Yat

Symonds Yat Rapids are a short section of the River Wye found in an Area of Outstanding National Beauty. Easiest access is from Symonds Yat East where canoeists should park in the Wyedean Canoe and Adventure Centre car park (there is a boat launch fee to be paid here alongside car parking). Putting in from these steps it is then just a short paddle down to the rapids.

The course, used for div 2/3 slaloms, is on the river left-hand side of the island and is Grade 2 water. The groynes channel the flow and produce a number of eddies which allow excellent practice for breaking in and out alongside some small waves. In higher flows the eddies wash out and the groynes produce some large waves ideal for surfing and more challenging crosses.

Whilst the rapids have been used as a training venue for many paddlers and clubs over the decades the slalom gates are not a permanent set up. However, in the last few years they have been set up on a Tuesday night from May through to October for practice along with some weekends. For information on using the course with gates contact slalom@cheltenhamcanoeclub.com.

There is a Youth camp downstream 15 minutes at the Biblins. You need to book in advance. Biblins Youth Campsite – Biblins Youth Campsite. There are number of hotels and B&B options in Symonds Yat East.