River Wye Weekend 2025

A Saturday and Sunday visit to Symonds Yat saw 9 Nomads enjoy a weekend of paddling in sunshine, showers and bouts of heavy rain.

Saturday saw a paddle from Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat with two Nomads on their first river trip, Stanley and Ankit. Well done to both who enjoyed the day and were smiling throughout, even when running through Nigel’s warm up routine – open the door, shut the door – with stretching actions to mimic.

After some Health and Safety pointers we were off – paddling 5k lazily down the river to a lunch stop of sandwiches and fruit midway.

Arriving at the rapids there was some trepidation amongst the new guys but all tackled the rapids well with some of the more experienced paddlers keeping an eye out for them with good tips and the occasional rescue.

A Saturday evening meal was hastily arranged for 9 when off the water with some swift telephone skills and a terrific recommendation from one of the team, with discussions aplenty about the day amidst generous portions for all.

Up early on Sunday we paddled directly to the rapids where some good paddling was had again by all and ensured a fun time.

A lunchtime drive home meant we stayed ahead of the storm front heading across the country and made it home in good time.

Thanks to Dan for accommodation, Ankit for his positivity, Stanley for his willingness to learn and practice, Tony for his paddling demos, Conrad for his stern squirt advice, Chris for his brisk pace on the water, Simon for his encouragement to all, Anton’s sociability and Stanley’s mum for some much needed shuttles.

A special mention to Nigel for leading the trip – great organisation, and encouragement to all, he led the way with calm authority and consummate paddling culminating in stern squirts through the rapids to the appreciation of those watching.

Well done to all.

Thanks to Simon for the trip report.