About Us
Viking Kayak Club was established in 1961, Viking Kayak Club is Bedford’s premier community for paddlesports. Based on the scenic River Great Ouse, we are a friendly, volunteer-run charity dedicated to making kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) accessible to everyone.
Our Heritage and Location
Our name reflects the historic Viking activity on the river right here in Bedford. Today, we operate from our boathouse at Batts Ford, shared with the Star Rowing Club, providing members with a central hub for river access, equipment storage, and socialising.
Activities for Everyone
Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned competitor, we offer a range of disciplines to suit your interests:
- Recreational Paddling: Join our popular Wednesday Club Nights for social paddles and skill-building in a relaxed environment.
- Competitive Sport: We have active sections for Canoe Polo, Slalom, and Racing. We are proud to be the home club of Olympic Gold Medalist Etienne Stott.
- Family & Youth: Our club is built on a family-first philosophy, offering Youth Polo and junior sessions to encourage the next generation of paddlers.
- Community Events: We are a key participant in the Bedford River Festival, hosting displays and tournaments that celebrate our vibrant river culture.
Join the Community
As a British Canoeing (Paddle UK) affiliated club, we provide qualified coaching and a wide fleet of club boats and equipment for our members to use. We believe the river is for everyone and welcome paddlers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to join our growing community.