Booking tickets for Canoefest
Do I need to be a member of the OCA to come to Canoefest?
Yes, you will need to be a paid up member at the time of the event. You can join the OCA from this page on WebCollect. The cost is £16 for an adult, £26 for a family.
Paddling at Canoefest
Do I need to pay a toll or hold a waterways license to paddle?
Many of the rivers we will be paddling require a Waterways licence to paddle. This includes local rivers such at the Thames. The Environment Agency offers day and week tickets, but consider British Canoeing membership which covers all the rivers and canals we might paddle at the festival.
Do I need to bring my own canoe to Canoefest?
Most attendees will bring their own boats and equipment but this is not absolutely necessary as a variety of craft, including demonstration models from the traders on site, will be available to borrow. Many of those attending will also welcome others to join them to paddle tandem/doubles both for trips and skills workshops.
Is there a programme to cater for families with children / youngsters?
Yes. Many of the coaches and leaders that will be supporting Canoefest have considerable experience of working with families and younger children and will be delighted to provide trips and activities tailored to their needs.
What level of experience do I need to come to Canoefest?
Attendees at Canoefest will range from very experienced to those whose experience is very limited. There are likely also to be a number of non-paddling partners and family members at the event. The most important thing is to have a keen interest in all things canoeing! Those with no experience and wishing to learn to paddle are recommended to complete an introductory canoeing course, such as those widely available at canoe clubs and activity centres, before attending Canoefest.
Can we sell our surplus canoe gear?
You are welcome to sell your kit informally. We plan to create a facebook forum to connect folk up, close to the dates of the event.
Attending Canoefest
Will there be catering at Canoefest?
Yes. We are working to find a local firm as an on-site caterer. We aim to be offering the purchasing of breakfasts and evening meals in February.
We’ll have an onsite bar, selling local beers. We’ll provide a take-home beer cup for a small fee, if you haven’t brought yours from the last few years. Remember to bring cash for your drinks! The bar will be cash only.
What facilities are available to attendees camping at Canoefest?
Water taps, toilets and showers will be located around the camping area. The Canoefest site is not equipped to provide electric hook-ups for vans/caravans.
Those camping, can park next to their tents, but personal generators are not allowed. Note that it will be important to follow any one way systems and keep the roadway clear.
There will be a central fire-pit and an area for camp cooking workshops. We will make a decision on individual fires closer to the event, to protect any fire risks.
Can I bring my dog to Canoefest?
Well behaved pets (and their owners) will be welcomed at the event, but dogs must be on a lead at all times, as there may be livestock around. The organisers will reserve the right to ask that any animal causing a nuisance be removed from the site, and of course you’ll need to cleaning up after them and take that off-site.
How am I expected to manage my personal waste whilst on site?
All participants are required to take all their rubbish and any recycling home. Please bring waste and recycling bags and no not leave trash in the shared areas