Hosted by Lakeland canoe club who are now bringing their very successful paddling film festival to the North of the county, and to make it even more appealing it's at the end of half term. 

​Tickets are sure to be popular for this one so book early to avoid disappointment!

"Volunteers across the UK play such an important part in the paddling community – everything you do helps paddling thrive. This project is our commitment to understanding your experience and building a stronger future for volunteering together.
What is the project aiming to do?You might spend your time on the water, on land, or online; at a local, national, or international level.
You might give an hour or hundreds; work on your own or lead a team.
However and wherever you help, we want your feedback!"
​Taken from paddleuk.org.uk/volunteer-feedback-project/

Carlisle canoe club and friends met at Glencoyne Bay lakeside to remember Jim Wilson and share memories of his life and contribution to our paddling community. The gathering, held in Jim’s honour, was a heartfelt tribute that brought together friends old and new. Including a thoughtful toast to Jim, a dram of Jura, we enjoyed a great paddle on the lake — a fitting way to celebrate his passion for the outdoors and the water. As promised, please see the group photo from the day, capturing the spirit of camaraderie and remembrance that defined this special memorial paddle.

Click here to book
https://www.breweryarts.co.uk/event/paddling-film-festival-2025/

“Isle of Coll/Tiree Experience” - July 2025, coastal sea kayaking & wildlife watching.  A combination of journeying and skills coaching.
Link to flyer
The Isle of Coll is a Southern Hebridean island lying about four miles west of Mull. It extends approx. 13 miles in length and is 4 miles across at its widest point. Coll is fairly central in the coastal chain of Hebridean islands, and breath-taking views can be seen from many points on Coll’s shores.
With fewer than 200 residents and only 3 hours CalMac ferry from Oban, Coll has a mixed community of local and newcomers, driven by the Coll Development Trust – allowing the community to develop and grow.  www.developmentcoll.org.uk
The week was targeted at improver / intermediate sea kayakers (fully equipped and with at least 2/3 seasons under your belt) – wanting to develop essential kayak, moving water and wild camping, skills, plus wildlife / bird, seal & basking shark spotting in the Gunna Sound area.
Isle of Coll facilities:  bunkhouse, hotel, café, shop, two castles, PO, gift shop, medical centre, ferry terminal.
Plan A:
Home - Coll Bunkhouse for x3 nights
Dates: July 2025 Sat 19 – Mon 21 3 nights in Coll Bunk House
Tues 22 - Fri 24 3 nights camping Gunner Sound spotting-seals & basking sharks
Fri 25 - Sun 27 2 nights circumnavigation of Tiree (or go home)
Actual Plan:
Day 1 (Sat) - travel over from Oban on the Calmac Ferry and drop into Tiree on the way. We had x3 nights based from the hostel either in bunk rooms or campervans at the bunkhouse – well equipped and great facilities in the central village – Arinagour.
Day 2 - (Sun) Arinagour harbour north to west coast – great weather, even some sunshine, a great coastal warm up before we hit the north of Coll with some amazing islands – the Cairns of Coll - with tern colonies, seals (both grey atlantic and common harbour) and seabirds to spot.  The west coast picked up (as it does) and the coastline was moving and studied with small rock inlets and small beaches to challenge our skills.  We had a shuttle in place to return us to Arinagour – a fabulous day one paddling - around 20k.
Day 3 - (Mon) coaching on west coast, out and back.  Using the west coast bays as a learning environment we had a coaching day and many challenges as the sea state developed – around 15k.  That evening we prepared for 5 nights wild camping.
Day 4 - (Tues) Arinagour to Gunner Sound, heading south towards Tiree, fully loaded with very stable sea kayaks.  Arriving on Gunner Island – between Coll and Tiree we were greeted by the new owners and friends and were invited to wild camp, however, due to the group number (11), the poor suggested camping ground and the closeness of the refurbed house we declined and returned to an amazing camping area, 2k back on Coll, which was quite stunning, spacious and with ocean views to die for – around 24k.  A decision was made to make our home for x2 nights on this well-appointed camp site.
Day 5 - (Weds) As we explored the Gunna Sound we quickly realised and confirmed with “Basking Shark Scotland Tours” that the presence of basking sharks had changed and none had been spotted for x2 seasons!!  A huge disappointment for all.  However, we circumnavigated Gunna Island and enjoyed the moving currents as we crossed the channel to the isle of Tiree, as the wind picked up and currents zig-zagged the channel, creating a number of challenges to a number of paddlers.  One group explored the wild west coast, while another used the peaceful shelter of the leeside of Gunna island to explore and enjoy the bird life and seals.  All meeting up for an extended lunch on the island.  Refreshing water supplies, from some welcoming residents, we paddled the Tiree coast, until the appropriate crossing point appeared, back to our Coll camping ground – around 24k.
Day 6 - (Thurs) Due to predicted weather forecasts, a decision to try a Tiree circumnavigation was scraped, as was returning back to our Coll base via the west coast, due to the challenging sea states – wind and swell – and the mixed experience and stamina of the group. So, we returned to our Coll base in calm waters, no wind or swell, via a fun coastline for rock-hopping and coastal exploring.  We took another leisurely lunch at the “Two Castles Bay” and returned to Arinagour in good time for coffee and cake in the village café – wild camping above the village by Church – around 22k.
Day 7. - (Fri) coaching – Due to the group’s request – keen to paddle but just round the local harbour headlands we delivered a “close as you dare” coaching morning – 3 hrs – in line with the group’s energy levels – much fun was had by all with an out and back final session – around 8k.
Day 8 – was agreed to be a rest/explore day, which 6 group members chanced an early ferry back to Oban and all were squeezed on – 3 cheers for CalMac - while the remaining 5 explored some of the west coast beaches and walks, returning the next day as planned.
Summary:
Though the weather was rather grey for much of he time, the predicted high winds were restricted to the west coast, allowing us to deliver a number of objectives for the group.  Unfortunately, the circumnavigation of Tiree was canned – distance and no wind protection due the flat nature of Tiree and the spending time observing basking sharks feeding on the plankton in Gunna Sound – the Scottish hot spot for cruising basking sharks - was not to be, due to unknown environmental, climate, and plankton availability factors.  Disappointing for us all.  However, the group really enjoyed an introduction to Coll and the coastal challenges and community interactions.
A “good trip was had by all”
The coaching/guiding volunteer delivery team led by Mike Sunderland, John Soady, Dave Watson and Pete Riley.
A Coach/Leaders Perspective
 My thoughts on the week by Dave Watson
“Once again the participants fully engaged with the opportunity to learn new skills or revisit those everyday techniques they were taught previously, that just needed refreshing.
 
With 4 coach/leaders we were able to provide personalised sessions to meet the needs of the group that had been identified by 'interviews' with the participants on the ferry to the islands.
The Hostel provided a comfortable base for the first few days before we set off on the wild camping element of the experience.
 
It was clear that towards the end of the week the weather would break with wind and rain forecast; although this increased the opportunities for 'moving water' skill sessions the thought of windy and wet wild camps was not as appealing. As it turned out the conditions were just right for the course objectives and gave participants a range of on and off the water experiences that I believe fully met the stated aims.
 
As a volunteer coach the reward for the contribution given often comes from the reaction of the participants as I see their confidence and objective skills develop - that light bulb moment as the task we've been working on "really does work Dave" and the smile of accomplishment on their faces proves the point.  Seeing both Sally and Pete completing their “sea kayak award” during the week, showing continual assessment really works. With small number groups of 3 and 4, allowed us to use the simple coaching concept of demonstration, supporting the learning.
 
Overall the Coll & Tiree Experience delivered - the wildlife (dolphins, porpoise bird life etc) and coastal environment added to the value of our week. Of-course it would be remiss of me if I failed to mention the good humour, participation, contributions and of course the fabulous home baking that appeared during our week!  Already looking forward to next year's trip.”
 
My thoughts on the week by Mike Sunderland
“As an organiser – seeing the trip come together, juggling the logistics for everyone is, satisfying – when it works – which it did on Coll.  If you can forgive me for the lack of Basking Sharks?
Sometimes it is difficult for the individual participants to fully understand the coach/leaders decisions, which always consider the whole group and not just individual needs.  Splitting groups on the ocean, is always a questionable decision and often step one of a small series of minor decisions, that leave a group vulnerable to negative incidents.
I enjoyed the week, particularly sharing past paddling experiences, with a new deliver team of coach/leaders and keen participants.  The obvious energy of sharing experiences with local residents and other visitors and the feeling of excitement as we all gained a closer understanding of why folk choose to live a life on a Hebridean Island was obvious and enjoyable to see.
Personal paddling progress was obvious and I am confident that the whole group left Coll/Tiree better sea kayak paddlers, wiser group members, with experiences that they may not have been achieved, if they just showed up at the bunk house wanting to paddle.
A great week with a great group – thanks everyone – We (Cumbria Canoeists) are still motivated to design more adventures for developing sea kayakers experiences, skills and independent paddling – look out for next seasons events - focusing on mentored supervision for individuals in small groups – a bit like a Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Expedition, with all planning and decision making coming from the group and not the delivery team!!
My thoughts on the week by John Soady
This was my first time on either Coll or Tiree, two of the very few western isles I hadn’t paddled, so I was looking forward to experiencing the islands and their people. Mike and I had previously paddled with and coached everyone in the group, so this would be an opportunity to build on that grounding to support each individual to develop their skill and confidence whilst exploring this new environment. And with Coll being the basking shark capital we were certain to see several... or were we?!
Apart from the basking shark absence, Coll did not disappoint. The island provides a variety of coastal features – soaring cliffs plunging into deep water, low-lying skerries, islets and sandy bays – all within relatively short distances. The west coast offered more swell, providing dynamic paddling conditions, whereas the more sheltered east coast was perfect for set-piece coaching exercises making use of rock projections, caves and slots. Having spent time on the ferry on the way out taking stock of each individual’s aspirations for the trip, we were able to design our paddle plans around those aims as far as conditions and environment enabled.
Other than wind and swell conditions preventing paddling on the final day (the group were tired by that stage anyway and due a day off), I think we were able to meet everyone’s coaching and exploration aims. One thing I especially enjoy on these trips is having the opportunity to work with other experienced leaders and coaches to add to my own repertoire. One other thing to mention is that with Coll sitting plumb in the middle of the Inner Isles, the scenery is simply stunning: to the north the Small Isles with Skye beyond: to the east the Treshnish Isles and Mull, the Outer Hebrides to the west, and Islay to the south. A brilliant week all in.
 
My thoughts on the week by Pete Riley
Feeling rather unqualified, I reluctantly agreed to join CC on their Coll trip in July.
I am glad I went. Mike made me feel a full member of the team, and I certainly didn't feel like an appendage. Whilst it felt partly like a working vacation, it gave me further opportunity to reflect and develop.

What a great experience. Quite a mixed level of experience, knowledge and motivation across our team and I appreciated having access to the forms that the paddlers fill in prior to the trip, one of the elements being what they want to achieve over the week.

I enjoyed the week and feel perhaps stimulated to achieve formal coaching qualifications. As I get older and my testosterone ebbs away, my desire for adrenalin is also in decline! Being part of a team that delivers safe leadership and coaching in a moderate environment is probably where I'd prefer to be.

Thanks to Mike and John for their CC leadership; to Dave Watson for being a supportive co-leader and most of all to the paddling crew who, in spite of the challenging conditions, (hopefully) had a decent time on Coll.
 
 

As our weekend approached the forecast was improving steadily, there was little rain on offer but with force 4 to 6 off shore winds forecast for the Saturday conditions looked tricky. Mike and Paul, our leaders held a 9am brief at the campsite after which we opted to head to Bempton RSPB to inspect the view. It was impressive, and wild. 
At this point we hoped for a couple of hours paddling in the small cove at the North shore landing, any further out might prove too much. 
Upon arrival at the car park we had the usual tussle with the ticket machine and then a steep carry down to the beach, dodging the bathers, kids, paddle boards and hoards. Eventually at about 11.45am, after some lunch on the beach, we set off for a play in the cove. 
The caves were impressive and we spent an hour dealing with the gusty conditions and getting assessed by Mike and Paul prior to venturing out of the shelter of the cove. Luckily this point the winds eased so we headed out north along the coast to Cat Nab just short of Bempton. Again we had several caves to inspect, masses of sea birds, Guillemots, Razor Bills, Gannets, Kittiwakes, Puffins and the odd seal for company. These cliffs are home to huge numbers of breeding birds at this time of year so we kept out a bit were appropriate to minimise disturbance.
Upon our return to the Northern landing Mike casually suggested we should inspect the caves we couldn't access earlier because of the wind so we headed to the southern side of the cove, this side is particularly worth a look. A quick vote was taken and we chose to head 6k along south to get out at the South shore landing in the calm weather. This wasn't to go quite as well as hoped!
All started well on our afternoon trip then a southerly breeze arose as did a few waves to add some light challenge.  Then we bumped into a large group of perhaps 50 plus seals so we opted to paddle a bit off shore to give them some room, the waves were now getting fairly challenging. We then found ourselves surrounded by seals all keen to inspect their visitors, they were popping up everywhere! It was excellent to see but I did find it a bit intimidating as there were so many so close. 
By now the wind had returned at perhaps force 5 plus so the last 3k to the south shore landing was a long slow haul. At one point I needed to stretch so got out and tried carrying the boat as we were making such slow progress but the gusts were too much on what was an exposed piece of shoreline, eventually we got there - to everyone's relief.  
We'd had an excellent first day with lots of fun, albeit with a tough end to the afternoon leg. Many thanks to Mike and Paul for their continuous effort and leadership and for ensuring we made the most of the day. It did look early on as if we might not get any paddling done.  Also, many thanks to the rest of the team for their excellent company and enthusiasm.
References:
Filey-Bempton Cliffs (below the RSPB a lift site:  https://www.rspb.org.uk/daysout/reserves/bempton-cliffs  ) 
Flamborough Head - https://www.ywt.org.uk/nature-reserves/flamborough-cliffs-nature-reserve 
South Landing - https://www.eastridingcoastandcountryside.co.uk/places-to-visit/find-a-place/place/?entry=south_landing_nature_reserve#facilities
​

We woke early to less rain than expected - good start! We met at the Scarborough Caravan & Camping Reception at 8am. A provisional plan had been made the night before but we had a change of heart whilst looking at the map during a last-minute planning discussion. Final plan: put in at Staithes Harbour and paddle to Sandsend.
Happily, the wind had dropped considerably since our battle with the elements the previous afternoon and it was slightly cooler, but still sunny with a gentle northerly breeze to carry us down the coast.
We drove to Staithes and down the steep, winding street to the harbour. It was still early enough on a Sunday that the village was quiet. We unloaded the boats & gear and arranged a car shuttle to Sandsend while 3 of the group moved the boats onto the beach. We paddled out of the pretty harbour at 11.00am, heading SE around Old Nab towards Port Mulgrave
Interested to see the little off-grid shanty settlement and its occupants, who have built a life on the shore, under the limestone cliffs and in the shadow of the old iron ore workings that once occupied the north side of the bay. Originally known as Far Rosedale, it was established as a mining site & port in 1857, shipping ironstone to Jarrow until 1881. A substantial sandstone harbour wall now leans at an angle in a state of collapse. It's become something of a destination for fossil hunters on account of the early Jurassic (200 to 170 million years ago) mudstones that include an ammonite-rich shale layer. We found numerous fossil shells and ammonites, including some larger ammonites collected by one of the cabin-owners.
After exploring and eating lunch on the rocky beach, the tide was still coming in as we set off for Runswick Bay, rock-hopping and paddle-stroke practising as we went. 
Sea birds were much less numerous than yesterday owing to the shaley nature of the cliffs where there were fewer ledges for nesting and a constant risk of landslides and rockfalls. We witnessed one fall large enough to send a gull colony into the air but didn't see any casualties.
Leaving Runswick Bay, we paddled around Kettle Ness and on past Loop Wyke, Overdale Wyke and Deepgrove Wyke (a wyke is a bay or inlet) to the broad bay at Sandsend, our destination. The egress was slightly tricky as we had to lift boats off the beach onto the concrete slipway but it was right beside the car park, making for a fast getaway once we'd done the shuttle back to Staithes for the cars. 
Some folk headed straight home, whilst others searched for a tea & ice cream at a nearby cafe.
A really interesting and enjoyable day of good weather and sea conditions with just enough swell/chop to keep us on our toes. A new stretch of coastline for me and one I'll definitely re-visit. 
Thanks to Mike Sunderland and Paul Simpson for organising & leading the trip and to the rest of the team for good company: Marie-Ann, Richard, Neil T, Simon W, Chris, Amanda H & Sally C.
Referencs:  Saltburn to Runswick Bay, including Staiths (https://www.yorkshire.com/staithes/srsltid=AfmBOorkar4Em5yB2BZsAZMEZJBWf6ieKT_FjxxEQiDXsZXSpadMMId1 
Port Mulgrave  https://www.thewhitbyguide.co.uk/port-mulgrave/ (fossils/historic shanty village) Runswick Bay:  https://www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/places-to-go/runswick-bay
Sandsend:  https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/north-east-england/yorkshire/sandsend.htm
​

Cameron and Noah (both students at Queen Elizabeth Grammar school, Penrith) are members of Penrith Canoe Club.  
They have been selected as part of the GB U21s Squad for the 2025/2026 season. There are 17 paddlers selected from across GB, aged from 16 to 20 years old.
They will now compete in the European Canoe Association "Cup of Nations"; held in Avranches France on 21st/22nd June.  Formally called "2025 ECA Canoe Polo European Cup"
There are other events over the summer where the squad will train, leading up to the European championships Un September.
Noah and Cameron are now hoping to be selected into the GB U21s Team of 8 paddlers;  - from the Squad of 17 young people... Team selection will be done early July so they are training hard now to make the next step!

A report compiled by Mike Sunderland
Going back 5yrs, the sea kayak Muck Experience was an innovative “sea kayak immersion course”, that Cumbria Canoeists had never delivered before, proposed by three volunteers, after a personal week’s paddling round the Small Isles, ending in a rest-over on the Isle of Muck.  
The back cloth is unbeatable, a bunk house on a sheltered shore, a west and an east coast accessible on foot, plenty of wildlife to keep us entertained and Island folk keen to support our experience - shell fisherman, cafe, community hall and a lodge to celebrate a birthday.
The dye was set, an experienced and qualified team of coach leaders (3/4) were excited to join the delivery team and the event was launched - the rest is history.
Each year we have developed the training programme to fit the needs of the paddling team who join us - mainly sea kayakers with one or two seasons under their belts and a common theme of “I want to learn and improve my skills and boat handing in the ocean”
So, let’s hear how some of the 10 paddlers managed to develop their sea kayaking experiences on the Cumbria Canoeists’ 2025 Muck Experience by either clicking on the link below to their feedback (which I did not want to truncate). You can also see a video of one of our wildlife encounters here.

First Hand Feedback from the Muck 2025 Participants and Delivery Team
​
Thanks all, for your contributions, and such positive feedback from participants, which drives us to continue volunteering to deliver such a great week’s sea kayaking experience to those “keen to learn”.  
You have motivated us to plan another May Muck Experience for 2026 and have already had a number of “expressions of interest”, so contact me if you feel you would enjoy and benefit from  this style sea kayak training.
Mike Sunderland (organiser), Dave Watson, Mac Knowles and John Soady
​
All volunteers for Cumbria Canoeists