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Leadership isn’t just about giving instructions or being the loudest voice in the room. Some of the most powerful leadership skills are learned quietly through listening, adapting and working alongside others.   At Islington Boat Club , kayaking offers a unique way to explore leadership in action. On the water, titles disappear, roles shift and teamwork becomes essential.   Leadership Starts With Awareness When you’re in a kayak, awareness matters. You need to pay attention t

Canoeing can look intimidating if you’ve never tried it before. For many people, a few common myths are enough to put them off completely. At Islington Boat Club , we hear these misconceptions all the time and we’re here to set the record straight. If you’ve ever been curious about getting on the water, here are five of the biggest canoeing myths busted.   Myth 1: You Need to Be Super Fit The truth: Canoeing is for all fitness levels. You don’t need upper-body strength or at

Getting ready for your first paddling session can feel exciting and a little uncertain. One of the most common questions we’re asked at Islington Boat Club is: “What should I wear?” The good news? You don’t need any specialist kit. With a few simple choices, you’ll be comfortable, confident and ready to enjoy your time on the water.   Dress for the Weather, Not the Water For beginners, paddling sessions take place on calm, sheltered water. While you might get a little splash

For years, escape rooms have been the go-to choice for corporate team-building. They’re fun, fast-paced and encourage problem-solving under pressure. But as workplaces rethink wellbeing, inclusivity and meaningful connection, many companies are now looking beyond locked doors and ticking clocks. Increasingly, they’re turning to the water. At Islington Boat Club , we’re seeing more teams choose paddle-based challenges as a refreshing alternative and for a good reason.   Teamwo

Tucked away in the heart of Islington, City Road Basin is more than just a stretch of water. It’s a living, breathing space which has been shaped by history, sustained by community and protected by care. At Islington Boat Club , we see ourselves as custodians of this unique environment. Every day, through our activities on and off the water, we work to keep City Road Basin active, respected and alive for future generations.   A Place With History and a Future City Road Basin

For many young people growing up in London, opportunities to feel confident, capable and connected can be hard to come by. Busy streets, limited green space and increasing pressures on mental wellbeing mean that safe, supportive environments are more important than ever. At Islington Boat Club , we believe the water can be a powerful place for change.   Confidence Starts With New Experiences Stepping into a kayak for the first time can feel daunting and that’s exactly why it

If you’re looking for a refreshing way to boost your physical health , mental wellbeing and community connection . all without leaving London, kayaking might just be the hidden gem you’ve been missing. And there’s no better place to start than with Islington Boat Club.   Kayaking Is More Than Just a Workout Most people think of the gym or jogging through a park when it comes to staying active but paddling on calm water offers unique holistic benefits that go far beyond a t

At Islington Boat Club , we’re passionate about making watersports accessible and affordable  for our local community. Whether you’re a young person, a school group or an adult looking to try something new, our programmes are designed to build confidence, skills and a love of the water. Here’s a closer look at the activities we offer: All On Board– Watersports for Young People with Additional Needs Our AOB programme  provides a safe, supportive and fun environment for young p

Looking for Christmas Things to Do in London? If you’re wondering how to make this Christmas special, Islington Boat Club  has the perfect festive experience for families and friends: a Christmas Cruise along Regent’s Canal ! A Magical Festive Adventure Step aboard our fully enclosed narrowboat and meet Skipper Santa and his Elf . Enjoy the cosy atmosphere as you cruise through Islington and soak up the sights of London’s waterways in a truly festive way. During the cruise, e

The festive season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a Christmas Cruise along London’s Regent’s Canal ? Run by Islington Boat Club , this seasonal experience is perfect for families, friends, and anyone who wants to get into the holiday spirit. A Festive Adventure on the Water Step aboard our fully enclosed narrowboat for a cosy and magical journey along the canal. Skipper Santa and his Elf  will guide you through the sights of Islington, spreading festive c

For over 50 years, Islington Boat Club , located on Regent’s Canal in London , has been more than a watersports venue. It has been a hub for young people to develop skills, confidence and ambition. Our London-based charity provides safe, inclusive and engaging opportunities for youth, helping them unlock their potential both on and off the water. If you’re looking for impactful London youth activities or ways to support a local charity , here’s how our venue is shaping ambit

Keep a Vital London Watersports Charity Thriving For over 50 years, Islington Boat Club  has been a cornerstone of the Regent’s Canal  community in London. Our welcoming watersports charity provides young people, families, schools and local residents with a safe space to learn new skills, build confidence and enjoy meaningful experiences on the water. If you’re looking for ways to support a London charity whilst having fun and connecting with others, this guide shows you exa