The Ultimate 2025 Whitewater Kayaking Event Calendar for the UK

As the temperatures across the UK begin to creep into the positive and we can start looking ahead to paddling adventures for the year, 2025 promises an exciting lineup of events for paddlers of all levels. From adrenaline-pumping races to community-focused festivals, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars with these must-attend events!

April 2025

North Esk Race

Date: April 13, 2025
Location: River North Esk, Scotland
Details: Hosted by Aberdeen University Canoe Club, this annual race is a staple for whitewater enthusiasts. Participants will navigate the challenging rapids of the North Esk in thrilling tests of skill and endurance.

Check out the Facebook event for more information. (https://www.facebook.com/events/1224390088859897/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A%5B%7B%22surface%22%3A%22group%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D%5D%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D)

June 2025

#ShePaddles White Water Weekend

Date: June 6–8, 2025
Location: National White Water Centre, River Tryweryn, Wales
Details: This empowering event focuses on women in paddlesports. Enjoy expert coaching, social paddling, inspiring talks and a supportive community in one of the UK’s premier whitewater destinations.

More info (https://www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk/shepaddles)

July 2025

Tryweryn Festival

Date: July 4–6, 2025
Location: National White Water Centre, River Tryweryn, Wales
Details: A weekend packed with competitions, coaching sessions, and social events. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a newcomer, the Tryweryn Festival offers something for everyone, including a buzzing festival atmosphere in the River Legacy Bar.

Check out their Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/trywerynfest

August 2025

Euro Open 2025

Date: August 30–31, 2025
Location: Holme Pierrepont National Watersports Centre, Nottingham, England
Details: This internationally renowned event draws paddlers from across Europe for a weekend of kayak freestyle, boater cross, and stand-up paddleboard racing. Don’t miss the opportunity to see top athletes in action or join in on the excitement.

https://www.facebook.com/DewerstoneEuroOpen

October/Novermber 2025

Tyne Tour 2025

Date: October 31st - November 2, 2025
Location: River Tyne, Hexham, England
Details: One of the UK’s largest paddling events, the Tyne Tour is perfect for anyone looking to connect with the kayaking community. Join guided trips, compete in races, and enjoy the lively social scene.

https://tynetour.co.uk/?fbclid=IwY2xjawH3FTBleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcB7ZKnsbluhsGM-Bd39PdKoCU0NqxQwP7mJVLVd8kb1ask5tuP9vV2zjQ_aem_Xizg8r_ppNmXwizSR5afBQ

In addition to the exciting whitewater kayaking events across the UK, just a short flight or ferry away in Ireland, there’s a vibrant paddling scene with notable events in 2025. Here are some key dates to mark on your calendar:

February – March 2025

Galway Fest 2025
- Date: February 28 – March 2, 2025
- Location: Galway, Ireland
- Details: Celebrating its twelfth year, Galway Fest is the fastest selling kayaking event in history. The event features a Friday Freestyle competition in Tuam, a Saturday race on the Boluisce River in An Spidéal, and concludes with a Mass Slalom/8 Ball Start race on the River Corrib in Galway City. This year, the organisers of Galway Fest have made yet another major impact in paddlesports by achieving gender parity in ticket sales, ensuring a 50:50 split of competitors!

https://galwayfest.com/

TBC 2025

Liffey Descent 2025
- Date: TBC 2025
- Location: River Liffey, Dublin, Ireland
- Details: The iconic Liffey Descent should return to its traditional September date in 2025. This challenging 32km race attracts paddlers of all levels, navigating a course that includes ten weirs and numerous rapids. It's a highlight of the Irish paddling calendar, offering both competitive racing and a vibrant social scene.

https://www.liffeydescent.ie/

Please note that event dates and details are subject to change. It's advisable to check the official event websites or contact organisers for the most current information.