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Canoeing on the canals


We all know that Britain’s canals and rivers are home to narrowboats, barges, wildlife and its spectators, walkers, cyclists and those just looking for some peace and quiet. However, not as many people are aware of how many canoeists make use of our waterways.

Almost 2 million people of all ages and abilities enjoy canoeing and kayaking in the UK and our canals and rivers provide ideal locations for those who want a gentle paddle or those who are looking for more of an adventure.

One man who recently went for the adventurous option is Peter Woolsey, a septuagenarian with more energy than most seventeen year-olds. He has recently completed a 390-mile kayak journey from Kendal to London to fundraise for Age UK, raise awareness of the Inland Waterway Association and promote the profile of canoeing as a sport that anyone of any age and ability can enjoy.

390 miles in 16 days

Peter’s trip started on 28 May at Tewitfield bottom lock on the Lancaster Canal. Over the next 16 days Peter negotiated the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Manchester Ship Canal, Bridgewater Canal, Trent & Mersey Canal, Coventry Canal and Oxford Canal before reaching Westminster Boat Centre on the River Thames where he was met by his family and assorted journalists.

During the trip Peter was attacked by swans, besieged by the weather on a daily basis and even fell in the canal at one point. However, the positives outweighed the negatives as he paddled through some of the country’s most picturesque locations.

“The trip was a great way to see rural Britain. The Lancaster Canal and Oxford Canal are probably the most beautiful waterways in the country,” said Peter.

While Peter’s trip isn’t typical of the type of trip a beginner would expect to embark on, one of the main aims of the trip was to highlight how accessible the sport is to all ages and abilities.

More fun than a gym

Peter explains: “I want people to see that canoeing and kayaking can be a very leisurely hobby and if you’re over 50 it’s an ideal new activity. If you can get in and out of a bath you can get in and out of a kayak and I wanted to draw attention to this. Canoeing and kayaking are fun and also healthy, much more fun than working out in a gym and much more private.

“I hope my journey will show that canoeing and kayaking are enjoyable pursuits which people of all ages can enjoy – activities which will enable them to make new friends and also widen their horizons as they get older. It would be wonderful to think I could inspire someone in later life to try an activity that’s a bit different but is actually, quite simple; it’s much easier than many people think.”

If you’re interested in finding out more about canoeing and kayaking on canals and rivers the British Canal Union can provide further information about clubs in your area and how to get started. Visit www.bcu.org.uk for more information.

Last updated: 25/07/2011

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