About Southbourne Canoe Club (SCC) is a small and friendly canoe and kayak club based on the south coast of England in Bournemouth. The club is located at the Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre, which provides convenient waterside access to Christchurch Harbour. This location offers safe and sheltered paddling waters, with easy access to the Avon and River Stour, as well as out to the sea and the Solent.
SCC welcomes members who have already taken a British Canoeing Discover Course (previously known as BCU 1*) or those who are already paddling to this standard. The club prides itself on being family-friendly and encourages members of all ages and skill levels to join. They offer training courses to British Canoeing standards at various levels, depending on demand, to support members in their ongoing skill development.
One of the highlights of the club's calendar is the regular Thursday evening paddles, which take place from May to September. Club members with the necessary qualifications or skills gather together for enjoyable paddling sessions during the season. These sessions provide an opportunity for training, socialising, and exploring the beautiful waters surrounding Bournemouth.
In addition to regular club activities, SCC also organises various events throughout the year. These events include trips to new locations for white-water paddling, sea journeys, and gentle canal trips. It offers members the chance to challenge themselves and to discover new paddling experiences in different environments.
Facilities and equipment at Southbourne Canoe Club are well catered for. The club is based in “The Darwin Room” at the Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre. The Darwin Room is a hut located to the left of the old Outdoor Education Centre building. It provides a convenient and comfortable space for club members to gather and prepare for their paddling adventures.
The club has a range of equipment available for use, ensuring that members have access to the necessary gear to fully enjoy their time on the water.
Southbourne Canoe Club invites individuals and families who are interested in canoeing and kayaking to join their vibrant community. They believe that a diverse and dynamic club is strengthened by welcoming new members. For those who are considering becoming part of SCC, the club offers a friendly and supportive environment where they can develop their skills, participate in engaging events, and create lasting memories on the water.
To learn more about Southbourne Canoe Club, individuals can visit their website, where they will find a detailed club calendar under the “Events” section. They can also find information about membership requirements and access the FAQ page to find answers to common questions about the club. For any additional queries, individuals can reach out to the club through the provided contact information.
Southbourne Canoe Club looks forward to welcoming new members and continuing to foster a love for canoeing and kayaking in the Bournemouth community.
