CSCC Reports 2013: Symonds Yat - 5/6 October 2013

Sarah, Tom, Rob and David G. made brilliant white water debuts at Symonds Yat, River Wye, in October under the expert supervision of Fi and Mark.  There had been some rain in the preceding days and the flow on the rapids was fast, so it was very impressive that the white water novices were able to do so many effective break ins and break outs and ferry glides.  The water was nice and warm when we took the occasional unscheduled dip and there was even a nice play wave at the bottom of the rapids.  The second day was better than the second, because the water level had dropped by a few inches and there were more eddies to play with.  I finally feel like I am starting to make some progress on white water, because I managed a roll 'in anger' and later I assisted with the rescue of a little boy (whom we'd seen earlier playing in the top eddy).  

All but Fi and Mark stayed at the Rushmere Farm campsite near Crossways, Coleford on the Saturday night.  It didn't have particularly modern facilities and the owner greeted us by sharing his concern that we would get up early (CSSC?) and leave without paying, but it was lovely and quiet with so few guests and I got the best night's sleep I have had in ages.  Rushmere is also close to Symonds Yat and a fantastic pub - the White Horse in Staunton where the food, beer and service were all excellent.  So it is a reasonable alternative to the quirkier Broome Farm and the posher Bracelands.

Fi and Mark stayed at the Hostelrie B & B in Goodrich which they also liked.

We finished our stay with tea and cake at the splendid SY tea shop in the sunshine.  A last taste of summer.

Photos here.