Outdoor Sessions

Outdoor Sessions take place on Thursday evenings from 6.30 until approximateyly 8 pm (although this varies upon conditions and groups) from May to August. The majority of sessions take place under Aboyne Bridge but are also located at Queens Loch and Knockburn Loch. Thursday evening sessions are very popular and need to be booked in advance- please do this by finding the group leaders contact details available on the club programme and confirming your attendance via an email or phone call.

Most outdoor sessions rely on participants gathering at the Canoe Cathedral by Aboyne Green to collect kayaking or canoeing equipment. If we are paddling under the bridge paddlers will help load kayaks, canoes and other kit onto trolleys which they can push to the bridge and carry by hand to the shore. Meanwhile non-paddlers will then carry the trolley back and lock up the Canoe Cathedral. If we are paddling at another venue then anyone with a vehicle with or without roof racks willing to help transport kayaks or people will be greatly appreciated!

 Please see the recommended kit section for advice on what to wear or bring to a typical outdoor session.

Please note: we do not have discreet changing facilties -only the shed building which is open plan.

Canoe Cathedral Location:

'The Canoe Cathedral', Charleston Road, Aboyne, AB34

Located on the South of Aboyne Green

Park on Charlestown Road or use the nearby parking facilities in Aboyne Square or Aboyne Community Centre.

Knockburn Sports Loch Location:

Address: Knockburn Loch, Strachan, Aberdeenshire, AB31 6LL

Website: https://www.knockburn.co.uk/contact

After collecting kit from the Canoe Cathedral head along the South Deeside Road (B976) towards Strachan. Cross the bridge at Strachan and take the first left heading East. Once the entrance gates have been opened (with a fob key held by the session organiser) drive through the large car park and down towards the Loch and left along its banks towards the northern edge where it is best to park on the grassy area. There is a cut out in the stone banks to gain easy access to the water.

Queens Loch/ Birsemore Loch Location:

Address: Birsemore Loch, Aboyne

Birsemore Loch is situated Directly south of Aboyne. After collecting kit from the Canoe Cathedral drive South across the Dee via Aboyne Bridge and  turn left heading briefly East along the South Deeside Road before taking a right turn up towards Birsemore and ascend the steep road. On your right there is a large parking place amongst the forest, unload vehicles in this space.