River Washburn

England's premier dam-release white water canoe and kayak facility - 1. 5 miles of Grade 2-3, fast flow - c /o British Canoeing (Yorkshire) & Yorkshire Water

On about 30 days in the year, water releases for canoeing purposes are made from Thruscross Reservoir into Fewston Reservoir. Events at Washburn currently include Wednesday evening and weekend cruises, slalom, freestyle and wild water racing. The latest releases are listed on this home page. Active participation by clubs is encouraged by the Washburn Committee.

The 2. 4km (1. 5 miles) of Grade 2-3, fast flowing water between the two reservoirs is the only dam-release facility in England and has become one of the most important and heavily used competition sites in the country. The river has three slalom sites catering for differing standards of competition, and hosts both Premier and Division 1 /2 slaloms. On slalom and WWR race days, parts of the river not in use by the event can normally be used by non-racing paddlers for recreational cruising by prior arrangement with the event organiser.

IMPORTANT NOTICES:
Note that safety cover must be organised and provided by the canoeists themselves. This river is NOT suitable for novices.

Although we expect all events to take place, there is always the possibility of cancellation (too little or too much water) which is beyond our control.
Confirmation will be obtained at least 14 days before discipline events, 10 days before weekend cruises and 7 days before weekday events. All participants should therefore ensure that the event is on, by contacting the Washburn Information Line on 0845 8338 654. This will state clearly whether a release has been confirmed by Yorkshire Water.

Use bcuwashburn@gmail.com to obtain the latest calendar.

Cruise Charges
These are dependant on the Event Organiser but usually Weekend daily charges are £6 (Juniors), £9 (Adults). Weekday Cruise Charges are £4 Juniors), £6 (Adults). All events have a mandatory surcharge of £4. 50 (be warned! ) if not having possession of a current BCU Membership Card. This surcharge applies except where club members can demonstrate that they are covered via club affiliation to the BCU and that the cover specifically includes such an event.

All Rafts and Raft guides MUST register before the event with the Washburn Committee and carry their own insurance.