Canoeing is a paddlesport in which participants use a single-bladed paddle and body movement to manoeuvre a canoe across the water. Our canoes can be paddled individually or in pairs and are ideal for learning the fundamentals on the calm, scenic waters of Castlewellan Lake in County Down.

Participants should wear lightweight, quick-drying clothing and closed-toe shoes that can get wet. In warm weather, shorts or a swimsuit with a t-shirt works well; in cooler conditions, wear layers such as a waterproof jacket and a warm under-layer. A full change of clothes and a towel are strongly recommended.

Greenhill supplies all required equipment, including canoes, paddles, wetsuits, buoyancy aids, and helmets. All provided safety equipment must be worn throughout the session.

Canoeing sessions take place off-site at Castlewellan Lake, County Down — approximately a 15-minute drive from Greenhill YMCA National Centre (BT33 0GR).

Greenhill's canoeing sessions are catered to participants of all ability levels. Participants should be aware that they can be soaked if canoes capsize. Therefore being slightly wet throughout the day.

Category A activities are the lowest risk and are suited to most ages. Category B and Category C activities involve a higher risk factor and require more initiative. Some of these activities are run off-site, including Annalong, Castlewellan, and the Mourne Mountains.