Stonehouse Regatta

Cotswold Canals Connected

Can your team beat the others to be new champions of the Stroudwater Canal?

Ship Inn Community Space

Back in the 1890s, Robert Larkin, landlord of the Ship Inn, brought the community together with a lively annual regatta in Stonehouse. You can read all about it on the Stroudwater History website.This year, we’re bringing the regatta back to life with a playful twist! Join us for a special taster event hosted by Stroud Valley Canoe Club—open to adventurous kids (ages 7 and up) and fun-loving adults of all ages.What to Expect:<ul><li>Yes, you will get wet! Our open canoes are stable and best paddled in pairs, though they can fit 3–4 smaller paddlers.</li><li>Inspired by the original regatta, we’ll feature a canoe race, a polo match, and the legendary Bovril bombs—plus a surprise event if time allows!</li><li>Each session includes a 15-minute coaching intro to help you paddle confidently and (mostly) straight.</li><li>Then it’s game on: race head-to-head, battle it out in canoe polo, and rack up points for glory. Winners will be announced at the end of the day!</li></ul>What to Bring:<ul><li>We’ll provide buoyancy aids.</li><li>Wear quick-drying clothes like shorts or leggings, a rash vest or polyester fleece, and old trainers or water shoes.</li><li>Don’t forget a change of clothes and a big towel or changing robe.</li><li>Porta loos and changing tents will be available on site.</li></ul>Important Info:<ul><li>Minimum age: 7 years old.</li><li>Under 18s need permission from a parent or guardian.</li><li>All sessions are led by qualified, DBS-checked coaches.</li><li>There is no parking at the site - its really easy to get along the tow path though.</li></ul>