Canoeing and Kayaking on The River Kennet: Bank works and temporary barrage at Barbel Bar

Tuesday 26 March 2013

Bank works and temporary barrage at Barbel Bar

As the title says...

Bank works to reinforce the south side of the River Kennet just above the weir apron at Barbel Bar present no problems for paddlers, but whilst the currently high flow rates are nearly washing out the weir, they're also making a mess of the somewhat amateurish barrage.

Paddlers should be careful to avoid the poorly identified rope line strung from the weir railings, but river left may be the best bet. Hopefully the works will be completed soon, but in the meantime, paddle safely!

Introduction to this blog

Following the Kennet Navigation Act of 1715 the River Kennet was partially canalised between Reading and Newbury. Some sections of the navigation shared the 'old' route of the river, whilst new sections were dug to avoid some of the more tortuous detours and mills. Today the Kennet and Avon Canal is regularly used by canoeists and kayakers (most famously as part of the annual Devizes to Westminster race), but for anyone who'd like to escape from the uniformity of the slow water, this guide focuses on some sections of the river that are less often paddled.

The waters described here are all Grade 0/1, sluices frequently block the route, and there's plenty of other natural and man-made obstructions, but don't let that stop you from enjoying a more interesting day out than you would by sticking to the canal.

This guide has been created to promote the right to paddle the River Kennet, and to give you some ideas as to where to do so if you are so inclined.

The blog was inspired by the Canoeing and Kayaking The Bristol Avon blog and The River Avon blog (see links), and shares the sentiment that our rivers are a resource that may be responsibly enjoyed by all (despite what some people may tell you).

Canoeing and Kayaking on The River Kennet

Tuesday 26 March 2013

Bank works and temporary barrage at Barbel Bar

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Introduction to this blog

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