Thank you to all the pupils who took part in the expedition. The teamwork, effort, and learning that took place over the weekend were brilliant. Adventurous trips often have uncertain outcomes and can provide unexpected challenges.

This was definitely the case for our 2025 team. Most of us had canoed before, but never on a river or while loaded up for a canoe camping trip. We started from Hodge Howe on Friday evening, canoeing and singing, all heading in the right direction with loaded boats toward the Wray campsite, arriving in the early evening and setting up camp. Some fantastic meals were prepared, from filet steak to army rations. The evening was spent playing cards and sitting around chatting.

On Saturday, after packing camp and loading the boats, we headed out onto Windermere and found a great way to wake up—by jumping into the lake! From there, it was off to Waterhead to load the canoe trailer and head to the River Lune to begin our river training.

With low water levels, we set off downstream from Kirkby Lonsdale, paddling about 9 km to Lyon Bridge. This was a great opportunity to gain some river running skills, including a bit of boat pushing over the shallows. After another boat pack, we drove to our overnight accommodation at Wood Nook Caravan Site. Moving into the glamping pods, we all showered and had meals—some pods were more luxurious than others. Mr Cooke and I seemed to find ourselves in the Super Deluxe Pod, which provided us with a well-earned, comfy sleep.

On Sunday morning, we aimed to paddle some of the upper Lune, intending to get out at Devil’s Bridge. With super low water levels, we started at Sedbergh. We paddled through some great rapids and got out via a bridleway after lunch, leaving just enough time toCanoe trips are demanding and physical, and with the low water levels, some parts of the river journey were even harder. Our team showed their strength and determination, and they did so while singing, smiling, shouting, and laughing.

A huge well done to everyone for the boat loading and unloading, canoeing, hauling, pushing, and learning.

Again, a massive thank you to Mr. Cooke for his support and help on the trip. I am really looking forward to the final in June.

Mr Reedy

Outdoor Instruction Teacher

Windermere School is an Independent Boarding and Day School for ages 3-18, across Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. The school offers holiday courses and a summer school programme, as well as short term immersion courses for international pupils, as well as an award winning IB programme. Join the adventure today >