Ultimate Canoe and Kayak Adventures by Jason Smith & Jason Smith & James Weir

Author:Jason Smith & Jason Smith & James Weir
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Wiley
Published: 2012-11-20T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 51

The River Tweed

From the border lands of Scotland to the wooded upper valleys, flowing on past majestic castles and historic houses and then into the North Sea, the Tweed is an incredibly beautiful river

Not only is it a highlight for canoeists and kayakers, the River Tweed is also regarded as one of the best salmon fisheries in the world.

A multi day journey in an open canoe or kayak along the River Tweed on the Scottish-English border is one of the best beginner trips in the UK; superb scenery, fun rapids that can be easily portaged for those not confident enough to tackle them and an accommodation choice of hotels or wild camping, this river has everything.

The Tweed has a very relaxed character, and you can easily drift off into another world as the flow gently carries you and your canoe along, but try to keep alert as there are many small rapids and ripples to entertain the more adventurous paddler. The first rapid is at Yair Cauld. The Fairilee, an enjoyable class two rapid, can be easily portaged for beginners who don’t fancy testing themselves to the limit. The next challenging rapid is not far away, Melrose Cauld. It is tricky to inspect and has a reputation as a rocky rapid that has damaged canoes: the consequences of damaging your boat on a multi day trip are much greater than when on a local journey. There are many beautiful places where one can set up camp along the banks of the River Tweed. Wild camping is one of the most exciting parts of a multi day adventure; selecting, packing and transporting everything you need to survive comfortably in the outdoors. The feeling of total self sufficiency is awesome. A tent or tarp, a warm sleeping bag and air bed, a hot cup of tea and a tasty evening meal cooked on an open fire followed by a wee dram of the Highland’s finest whisky, there isn’t a five star hotel in the world that can create such an atmosphere, just you, your chosen travelling buddies and the wilderness.

The most tricky rapids on the Tweed are found above Kelso – the Markerstoun rapids are a series of four drops that will raise the heartbeat for all. Depending on the water levels canoeists may choose to portage, take the easier line on river right or the more adventurous line in the middle, there are even a few eddies to catch on the way down for show offs!

The River Tweed can be enjoyed all year round: in summer the flow is normally at its least, the weather is perfect for living outdoors, but the rapids can be quite technical, and in autumn and winter the crisp clean air conjures up a very special atmosphere, for experienced campers the chilly temperatures are no problem.

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