The South West Paddlefest 2018

About us

WHAT'S' IT ALL ABOUT?

Basically it's about meeting up in the great outdoors, camping, enjoying a paddle, enhancing your skills regardless of ability, encouraging new people to the various disciplines and meeting new friends all whilst having fun and raising money for charity!

WHOSE IT FOR?

All kayaker's, canoeists, stand up paddle board enthusiasts, walker's, hiker's, campers, brothers, sisters, aunties, uncles, grandparent's and even the dog as long as it's well behaved. Encourage your friends, there's plenty to do and there's plenty of room!

WHERE IS IT BEING HELD? 

Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, Cornwall, PL10 1HZ situated on the breath taking South East Peninsula of Cornwall

WHAT'S ON OFFER?

For the paddlers there will be a variety of water activities, skills workshops and guided trips catering for all abilities. "Have a go" kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddle board sessions, specialist's in their field including our very own World Record holder Pete Bray from PB Adventures with his Atlantic Crossing kayak, a unique DIY kayak, canoe and SUP builder's display and a variety of paddle sport and outdoor commercial outlets. On Saturday afternoon there will be some fun racing for the kids and adults! 

For the non paddlers, enjoy all that Mount Edgecumbe Country Park has to offer including 865 acres of Grade 1 listed landscape, Adventure Segway, Beaches an amazing coastal path, boat and ferry trips to the historic Plymouth Barbican and lots, lots more!

Within the festival we have our own dedicated camping field situated within the grounds of Mount Edgcumbe Country Park with on site toilet's and hot showers. Our own bar, communal fire pit and entertainment via "Girl Friday" (a local folk duo) on Saturday evening.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE YOU HOPING TO ATTRACT?

Tickets will be limited to just 100 paddlers plus campers so to avoid disappointment and to take advantage of our early bird discounts like our Facebook page to keep informed.

WHAT AGE DO MY CHILDREN NEED TO BE TO PARTICIPATE?

We aim to provide a "have a go" session for all children up to the age of 80 at the discretion of the instructor however the weather conditions and their ability to swim will have the final say. Parents MUST be present when their child/ren is/are on the water however allowances will be made for kids 77 years and older!  

DO I NEED MY OWN GEAR?

In short - Yes however for those new to the various sports, for the "have a go" sessions all you need is a pair of beach shoes, shorts, a T-Shirt and a towel. There is the opportunity to rent at additional cost but due to demand we highly recommend you contact us to pre-book your requirements by using our "contact us" page on this website.

HOW SAFE IS IT? With all adventure sports there is an element of risk however through our event management action plan (which is scrutinised independently by the Local Safety Advisory Group) we are confident we have everything covered. Off shore paddling safety will be covered by individual instructors backed up by a safety boat. Intermediate and advanced trips will rely on self rescue with instructor and competent paddler assistance if required. "Have a go" sessions off Barn Pool Beach will be covered by safety Boat and competent kayakers who will be constantly on the water. All instructors will be linked to safety boats via VHF Radio and a separate radio network linking safety boats to the control tent at Barnpool Beach. There will be two St John's Ambulance First Aiders complete with first aid post on site from 0900hrs to 1700hrs on the Saturday and 0900hrs - 1600hrs on the Sunday. 

WHAT TO BRING?

Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping matt

Folding Chair

Head Torch/Battery powered lantern

Kayak, canoe, paddle board and associated equipment

Sun hat, sun glasses, sun screen, insect repellent

Food , camping stove and fuel (NO DISPOSABLE BBQ's PLEASE)

Cash for the bar and of course park activities

Suitable clothing for your intended activity

Bin Bags for your rubbish

Poop bags for your extended family members

WHAT NOT TO BRING?

Alcohol - The bar will be fully stocked and at reasonable prices

Glass bottles or glass containers of any kind.

IS FOOD PROVIDED?

As the idea of the festival is all about the great outdoors, you are encouraged to cook your own food on your camping stove. If this doesn't appeal, the festival incorporates a variety of catering outlets.