Learn to Row with Hinksey

New members are welcome throughout the year. We offer beginners the chance to learn on still water, with progression from a shallow pond to a larger lake just outside the centre of Oxford (Abingdon Road, OX1 4RP). This provides a fantastic learning environment, allowing athletes to progress at their own pace and according to their individual levels of confidence.

Beginners must complete a swim test and capsize drill upon joining the club (details here). Generally our minimum starting age is Year 6, though we do occasionally accept members who are in Year 5.

Once they have reached the necessary level of competence on the water, beginners move to our training site at Radley to train with other athletes in their age group. 

We run learn-to-row courses during half terms and summer holidays, which fast-track athletes through the learning process at the Lake. 

Learn to row courses 2026

Easter 

March 30th - April 2nd

We will run two courses, one in the morning (9.00 - 11.30) and one in the afternoon (14.00 - 16.30). Group size is limited to 8 participants per course. To sign up, please email our Coordinator, Julia Tilford on coordinator@hinkseysculling.org.uk, or fill in our sign-up form, selecting 'Learn to Row' from the drop-down menu. 

We will run further courses in the May Bank and Summer holidays - dates available soon.