From the beginning the Islington Boat Club has been devoted to giving Islington youth access to nature and water sports in the City Road Basin and beyond. We encourage all Islington youth to come join our club where you can make new friends, learn new skills and enjoy the outdoor activities that the boat club has been providing for more than 52 years.
What is it?
The Youth Club is a programme where almost 500 registered members aged 8-17 can engage in outdoor activities such as:
kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding (SUP), narrowboating, bellboating and Power Boating.
Our friendly staff are on hand to teach you and answer any questions.
How can I join the Youth Club?
Before attending please complete the online registration form.
​
​
​
​
When:
Term Time:
Tuesdays: (Girls Only) 17:30 - 19:00 (FREE)
Saturdays 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm
​
School Holidays:
​
Monday-Fridays 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm
​
You can book both am/pm sessions and stay all day on Saturdays and during holiday programs! Please bring a packed lunch
​
The activities at the club
We have instructors supervising participants on the water at all times, who will help you with your paddling skills and take you on journeys around the basin and along the main navigation of the canal.
We also have Narrowboating, a trip will take you eastward along the canal or west through the Islington tunnel.
​
Powerboat trips are also available.
​
What training does the club offer to members?
We always have qualified instructors on the water who will help you and give tuition no matter what your level is. We also run accredited British Canoe Union courses in canoeing and kayaking.
​
Once you build up your foundation skills on flat water, you can progress to furthering your paddling abilities towards white water. When you're ready you can join us on offsite trips around the UK. Putting your paddling skills to the test on natural rivers, man made white water courses and weirs.
​
We also periodically run RYA crew and Inland Water Ways Helm's courses on our narrowboat.
​
Facilities for young people with disabilities
Our instructors work regularly with groups with disabilities and are happy to welcome you to the club. Access is across flat ground with no steps or ramps. The pontoons are flat and stable.
We have various craft in our fleet for you to try. We have a disabled toilet and shower, but no lifting facilities. Please feel free to contact us with any queries or drop down and have a look for yourself.
​
Fully qualified staff
All instructors are qualified by Canoe England (British Canoeing) and/or The Royal Yachting Association.
All staff are DBS checked and first aid trained and completed mandatory safeguarding training.
​
Cost
(under revision)
FAQs
Where is Islington Boat Club?
Our address is 16-34 Graham Street, London, N1 8JX. Have a look at the map too.
How do I contact you?
We would love to see you at the club, so drop in; otherwise you can email us at: info@islingtonboatclub.com or call on 020 7253 0778.
What should I wear?
Wear loose fitting clothes, T-shirt, joggers/shorts/leggings, old trainers/pumps. Bring a full change of clothes including shoes. A towel and toiletries if you want to shower. Sunhat and sunscreen on summer days.
Do I need to be able to swim?
We recommend that you are able to swim 25m in light clothing and be comfortable in the water. You will be required to wear buoyancy aids at all times when near the water.
How old do I have to be to join the Youth Club?
We are open for 9-19 year olds.
When are you open?
Current youth club sessions are on the youth club page, also check Facebook for updates on opening times and information on trips and activities.
Can I bring a group of friends to paddle at the club?
Yes but they must register first here to ensure we have their details. It is FREE to register.
Is it safe?
All staff are trained to national governing body standards in their chosen disciplines as well as being First Aid trained. All equipment is modern, high quality and inspected regularly.
Buoyancy aids must be worn at all time when near the water. All activities are risk assessed.
Can I hire a boat from the club?
Sorry, we do not rent equipment.
Does the club provide private lessons?
We run sessions or accredited courses for groups-see our schools and groups section for details.
What sort of boats do you have?
We have a comprehensive fleet of boats including kayaks (river racers, slalom, play boats, polo, general purpose), canoes, bell boats, sailing boats, and a narrowboat.
Can I store a boat at the club?
We have limited storage at the club and so do not offer personal boat storage.
Can I leave my bicycle at the club?
Bicycles can be parked at the club during club opening hours, but at your own risk.
What is Weil’s disease?
If you are at all concerned about the very rare and easily treatable possibility of contracting Weil’s disease/leptospirosis from watersports, please see the literature on display at the club, consult a member of staff or refer to Weil's Disease Link.