Kayaking FAQs

Paddlers' FAQs

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) for kayakers, canoeists and other paddlers at Canolfan Tryweryn

  • What standard do I need to be at to paddle the river?

    There isn't a proficiency test to paddle on the Tryweryn so you'll need to have a look at the river and judge for yourself whether you're capable to paddle the river.


    You need your own kit, including boat and paddle. 


    As a guide, at usual flows, the upper section of river is Class 3/4, the lower river is Class 2/3 with Bala Mill Falls at Class 4. Bala Mill Falls has a leat running above the drop so can easily be avoided. We put the emphasis on individuals having the appropriate skills, experience and judgement to safely use this world class venue. 


    If you've had a look and are still unsure, please get in touch with us or drop in to speak to us at reception.

    Book kayaking
  • Where can I go on the river?

    You may use the river from the Top Site (below the stilling basin but above where the Chipper used to be), to the car park in Bala. When there are competitions/events on, certain sections of the river are closed throughout the day. Check the events calendar for full details.


    During November & December restrictions apply. See our Water Information Page for more info. 

    Tryweryn map
  • What water levels can I paddle on?

    You can paddle on the river when the water release is 7 cumecs or more. There are more details about suitable water levels here

    Water info
  • Do I need to pay the facility fee to paddle the lower river?

    Yes. Everyone getting on the river at the centre needs to pre-book their Facility Fees online.

    Book facility fees
  • How long does it take to paddle to Bala?

    You can get to Bala in about 30 minutes. However, usually it takes between 1 and 2 hours depending on how much your group wants to stop along the way. 

    River map
  • Is there a kayak shuttle service?

    Yes! The shuttle service is for boats, and paddlers with disabilities.


    Please use the paths when walking back up. Boats will be unloaded and left unattended at the top of the river. 


    Paddlers should be aware and accept that using the shuttle trailer may result in wear and tear on boats. The bus driver is responsible for determining when the trailer is full and for securing the load.

    Kayak shuttle
  • Do you have changing rooms and toilets?

    Yes! We have toilets, hot showers and changing rooms in the middle centre.

    Changing rooms
  • I'm an affiliated club. What do I need to know?

    Afiliated clubs now book as Tryweryn Paddlers, however in order to access the concessionary National Governing Body rates, we need to create you a club or coach member ID. Please get in touch with us to do this.


    In order to receive the Affiliated Club discount you need to book and pay as a group. 


    Your club members can book and pay individually through the 'Experienced Paddlers Facility Fee' but they will need individual National Governing Body membership to receive the discounted rate. 


    Kayak clubs
  • I'm bringing a coached group. What do I need to know?

    Coached groups now book as Tryweryn Paddlers, however in order to access the concessionary National Governing Body rates, we need to create you a club or coach member ID. Please get in touch with us to do this.

    Coached groups
  • Is there free parking on site?

    Yes, we have free parking for all kayakers and rafters on site.


    All parking for paddling will be in the middle car park (by the toilets) or the top car park. 


    The main centre car park and opposite layby will be reserved for people needing access to the centre. 


    Anyone wishing to paddle the lower river can either park in the middle car park and walk/paddle down or in the top car park and use the kayak shuttle to transport their boat and walk down to meet it at the centre. 

    Parking
  • Is there first aid cover at the site?

    Any time we're operational we have first aid cover all centre users. This is based in the main centre. 

    Facilities
  • When do kayaking and canoeing facility fee tickets go online?

    We add dates to book once we have had the water release confirmed by Natural Resources Wales.

    Book kayaking
  • Do you offer any concessionary rates for kayakers and canoeists?

    Yes, we have concessionary rates for kayaking/canoeing for the following groups:

    • Under 18s
    • Paddlers with disabilities (in receipt of either DLA or PIP)
    • Carers (in receipt of Carer's Allowance) 
    • Anyone in receipt of Universal Credit
    • Pensioners in receipt of Pension Credit
    • Students in full-time education
    • Blue Light Card holders

    Please speak to us when you book, and remember to bring your proof with you!

    Concessions
  • What if I book a reduced rate facility fee and forget to bring proof?

    If you don't have a proof of your concession with you on the day, we will charge the extra cost to the payment card on your booking. If you have a member ID we will only ask for proof once a year. 

    Concessions
  • What if I've booked but then can't attend on the day?

    Things happen! If you need to cancel, just give us a call (voicemail works) or send an email. We'll get your refund sorted on Monday (or the next office day).

    Contact us
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