Wye Trip 2025
Our thanks to Lucy for organising a great trip.
Nineteen eager adventurers descended on Symonds Yat Friday evening, ready for a weekend of, swimming, caving, rock sliding, eating, drinking, and the occasional attempt at actual kayaking.
Saturday:
The river levels were spot-on – perfect for brushing up on “essential” whitewater skills such as breaking in, breaking out, ferry gliding, swimming (sometimes planned, sometimes… not), and perfecting the ancient art of riverside sunbathing. A riverside lunch was wolfed down with Olympic-level enthusiasm.
Special shoutout to Shaun, who bravely sacrificed both river shoes to the Wye while demonstrating “uncontrolled aquatic ballet.” Rumour has it the local crayfish have moved in to their new homes.
After running the rapids, a few adrenaline junkies tried the legendary giant rock slide, proving once again that gravity always wins.
The evening’s entertainment featured a highly exclusive “two-pub crawl,” followed by food, drinks, and stories that definitely got better with each pint.
Sunday:
The river, doubled in height overnight. This meant the rapids were washed-out, so the group split: some enjoyed a scenic paddle on calmer waters while others went on a noble quest to explore King Arthur’s Cave.
Armed with head torches and heroic expectations, we arrived at the cave… only to discover it could just about house a coffee table and possibly King Arthur’s pet spaniel. If Arthur ever held a round table meeting in there, most of the knights must have waited outside, probably complaining about the lack of Wi-Fi. The cave may have been a disappointment, but the café and surrounding walks earned five stars. Moral of the story: sometimes the cake is mightier than the cave.
Highlight of the Day:
John Costello wins Swimmer of the Day with a gold-medal-worthy full-length swim down the rapids. Style, grace, and something else – truly one for the history books.