WELCOME TO RICHMOND BRIDGE BOAT CLUB
A Club "Like No Other"
The Richmond Bridge Boat Club (RBBC) is the friendliest adult only rowing club on the River Thames, providing rowers of all abilities the chance to get onto the water for pleasure, exercise or competition in a fun, inclusive, sociable and safe way, seven days a week on one of the most beautiful stretches of river in the world.
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Since 2013 we’ve been on the water all year ‘round in our own traditional Thames-style boats, purpose-built using the centuries-old wooden clinker construction technique.
Come and see for yourself - book a Taster row you’re assured of a warm welcome whatever your rowing experience.
Like every recreational club in the UK, we’re finding our feet as social distancing rules ease. That means reassessing the number, times and days of the week we want to get our boats out onto the water.
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Our current timetable to date for our weekly rows:
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Monday 7am
Tuesday 7pm
Thursday 7pm (social row, normally to the pub and return)
Friday, 7.30am
Saturday 9.30am
Sunday 9.30am
All row bookings for the week must be booked before 8pm on each Monday.
Note: the rows will only go out if the boat is full with a cox and the weather/river conditions are ok. Rows are normally 90-120 mins and Thursday's row is normally a stop off at the pub and a row back.
So why not get in touch and find out more?
We know what you really wanna know about RBBC. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of all the frequently questions we usually get asked regarding our club, how to row and our events and competitions.
If you still haven’t found the answers you’re looking for, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
I'VE ROWED BEFORE - DO I STILL NEED A TASTER ROW
If you have rowed before, you are still welcome to try a taster. Please contact info@richmondbridgeboatclub.com to book. The learn to row session is £40 this includes 2 sessions. Refunded if you decide to join the club and take out an annual individual membership.
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Once your place is confirmed, we ask that you take a few minutes and watch the safety video on this page and rowing commands. This will make your experience more enjoyable. Please arrive at the clubhouse 15 minutes before the rowing time, to help prepare you for your row. The format is informal and friendly, so you will soon be introduced and chatting to others.
WHAT SHOULDÂ I WEAR FOR MY TASTER ROW?
As a taster row you will be required to watch the clubs safety video on arrival, before you row.
On occasion, if there is not enough time to watch the video, your Cox will give a safety briefing on the boat.
Safety equipment is supplied to all the boats out on a row.
Life jackets are not required to be worn by rowers (other than by the Cox). The club has a limited number of life jackets available, but if you plan to wear a life jacket on a regular basis, then we ask that you supply your own.
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Comfortable clothing – most members wear a form of sports trousers/ leggings/ waterproofs? Jeans are not advised – the seams can get uncomfortable and cause chafing!
Layer up – you can get very warm rowing so layers are advised.
Footwear – must be flat and with a grip. Trainers, sailing shoes, wellies when it’s really wet are all suitable.
Gloves – if you row regularly then gloves are advisable if you are prone to blisters. Cycling gloves (in particular the gel ones, full or cropped finger glove) do the job really well.
Club kit – we do have a great range of club kit available to buy from our online shop.
Valuables – there are lockers in the clubhouse for your use.
NEXT STEPS AFTER TASTER ROW
If you have enjoyed a taster session and are ready to join please email our membership secretary at info@richmondbridgeboatclub.com.
If you love fun, being outdoors and the beautiful river Thames for all its stunning scenery – then you’d be crazy not to!
Check out the various Membership options on the Membership page
ROWING GUIDES & SAFETY VIDEO
Please take a minute to view the safety video prior to your taster session and also familarise yourself with the rowing commands and terminology.
RBBC SAFETY VIDEO
Learn To Row
Your Cox will also give a safety briefing on the boat. Safety equipment is supplied to all the boats out on a row.
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Life jackets are not required to be worn by rowers (other than by the Cox). The club has a limited number of life jackets available, but if you plan to wear a life jacket on a regular basis, then we ask that you supply your own.
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To check river conditions - Port of London
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