SHIPLAKE OUTLOARS
Fixed Seat Rowing
On The River Thames
The friendly rowing club for adults - no experience needed
Our Story
Rowing for Fitness and Fun
Founded in 2013, The Shiplake Outloars brings together a tight-knit, welcoming community of around 12 men who share a love for getting out on the the river.
We are an informal club where early morning outings before work set a positive, down-to-earth tone for the day.
Started by experienced fixed seat rowers, the club has welcomed mainly novice men and women from the local area.
Over the years, the club has taken part in many events including the Great River Race, Ocean to City in Cork, various coastal rows and whole for the Thames challenges.
Why Join The Outloars?
No Experience Needed
Perfect for complete beginners. We welcome everyone, regardless of your rowing background.
Great For Fitness
Build strength and stamina with a highly rewarding, low-impact full-body workout.
Relaxed Environment
Start your mornings on the beautiful, serene upper River Thames right here at Shiplake.
Fun & Sociable
Join a highly welcoming, down-to-earth community of locals who love being on the water.
OUR TRADITIONAL JOLLY BOAT
Meet Zachary
Zachary is our four-oared Jolly Boat built from the mould owned by the Great River Race and master boat builder, Mark Edwards. Originally built under Mark's supervision for a children's charity we acquired the boat in a sorry state.
Designed for stability and comfort on the Thames estuary, the boat is an ideal craft for river and light coastal rowing.
We do not feather our blades, so learning to row Zachary is very achievable for complete novices.
- Stable and approachable for complete beginners
- Four-oared fixed-seat design for team rowing
- Perfect for low-impact, full-body fitness
OUR ADVENTURES
On the Water
Want to Know More?
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much is Membership?
Annual membership is currently £115 per year
Can Men and Women Join?
Yes - of course. Currently our members are made up of men only - but mixed crews work well with our boat - or if there is a core group of ladies, we can build a female crew.
When Do You Go Out?
Currently our regular rows are 6:45 - 7:45 am on Tuesdays and Fridays and 7:30 - 8:30am Saturdays. We also arrange ad-hoc outings when extra training is required or if we arrange an excursion.
Are You Insured?
Yes, we are fully insured to row on British waters. We are operated by two very experienced Thames rowers with significant coastal rowing experience.
Do You Row Throughout The Winter?
Yes, when conditions allow.
Do You Welcome Beginners?
Yes - most of our members throughout the years had never rowed before. Fixed seat rowing is ideal for people who are new to the sport and is generally very easy to pick up.
What Ages Do You Accept?
We are an adult club - so that means members need to be 18 years or over.
Our eldest member at the moment is 74 years of age!
Do You Take Part In Races and Events?
Yes, we typically try to tale part on 4-5 events per year. Please see our Events Page and Articles Page to see what we have planned and what we have done over the years.
Supporting our Community
The river brings us so much joy, fitness, and serenity, which is why Shiplake Outloars proudly supports the Rivertime Boat Trust. This incredible charity works to ensure the beauty of the Thames is open to everyone, providing accessible boating experiences for disabled and disadvantaged children and adults.
By partnering with Rivertime, we’re helping to share the peace of mind and community spirit that the river environment gives us every single morning.
NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED
Ready to Row?
Join the Shiplake Outloars for early morning fitness, beautiful river environments, and a genuinely welcoming community. Whether you're a seasoned rower or have never set foot in a boat, there’s a seat waiting for you.
Call us on 01491 520667
