River Dee (Llangollen to Tŷ Mawr) – 29 November 2025

First Run of the Winter Season – Medium Level, Great Coaching & Plenty of Smiles

For the first run of the winter season, conditions lined up beautifully. With the River Dee sitting at a predicted 0.88m, the standard section from Llangollen down to Tŷ Mawr Country Park was the perfect choice for a progressive white-water coaching day.

The plan ran like clockwork: everyone met at 10:00 am at the get-out in the bottom car park of Tŷ Mawr Country Park, fully changed and ready to load boats onto a few shuttle cars. Leaving most vehicles at the get-out made the logistics simple and efficient – easily the best way of running this section.

Tŷ Mawr Country Park
Cae-Gwilym Ln, Cefn-mawr, Wrexham LL14 3PE
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xwPXA5nJ8AmBGT1T6

Once at Llangollen, groups organised quickly, and the river offered ideal progression conditions: medium level, mild weather, and every feature running cleanly. Coaches spent time at key rapids, giving paddlers the chance to practise break-outs, break-ins, ferry glides, edging and confidence-building moves throughout the day.

Group 1 – Keith’s Crew

Keith, Sara, Terry, Olwen

Group 1 delivered a smooth and positive day on the water. Keith kept the pace steady while Sara refined her break-outs with growing confidence. Terry handled the moving water cleanly, and Olwen made impressive progress, especially as the features became more dynamic further downstream. She had clearly got her mojo back 🙂

Group 2 – The Rapid Rebuilders

John, Kieron, Sarah, John, Ian

Both Johns worked hard on line choice and posture, while Kieron tackled each rapid with determination. Sarah showed great commitment at every feature, and Ian’s calm coaching helped the group settle into a strong rhythm. A solid mix of experience and enthusiasm.

Group 3 – The Focused Four

Nick, Jackie, Daniel, Dominic

Nick gave one-to-one attention, allowing him to really sharpen his technique throughout the session. Meanwhile, Jackie, Daniel and Dominic formed a lively sub-group, showing excellent teamwork and making clear progress on every coached section. Plenty of energy, great attitudes and lots of learning.

A Strong Start to the Winter Paddling Season

The Dee delivered everything we could have asked for: friendly levels, perfect progression features and excellent coaching at every point. All paddlers made real improvements, and spirits stayed high from Llangollen right down to Tŷ Mawr.

If this first winter run is anything to go by, we’re in for an excellent season ahead. Roll on the next trip!