Shiplake Vikings Rowing Club
On the River Thames between Shiplake and Sonning
Shiplake Vikings Rowing Club
On the River Thames between Shiplake and Sonning
Shiplake Vikings Rowing Club
On the River Thames between Shiplake and Sonning
Friendly, Relaxed Rowing Club
Our club was established over 40 years ago. We wanted to enjoy ourselves on and off the water – and we still do!
If you are an adult who has rowed before and would like to row again or a young person looking to take up rowing in a welcoming social environment, we would love to hear from you.
Senior Membership
We welcome Seniors of any age!
Seniors need to have rowed before. We do not currently offer ‘learn to row’ courses but have a culture of supporting one another (and often enjoy a coffee together after outings!).
Junior Membership
We welcome Juniors from school year 9.
Our focus for Juniors is on imparting new skills, building fitness and developing a love of rowing for life.
Regattas/Row for Fun
Many of our members, in particular our Junior members, choose to compete in local regattas and head races. Others prefer to simply enjoy a healthy workout in glorious surroundings, with like-minded people.
Coaching
All our coaches are registered with British Rowing, hold appropriate qualifications in safeguarding and first aid and are DBS checked.
Senior and Junior Membership
SVRC offers different membership packages for Seniors and Juniors.
The Senior and Junior sections of the club have their own session times, ensuring that congestion is minimised.
If you are a young person looking to take up rowing or an adult wanting to get back into it, SVRC could be the club for you.
British Rowing Recognised
We follow all of British Rowing’s safety standard and best practice guidance.
About Us and History
Shiplake Vikings Rowing Club (SVRC) was established in 1985 and for over 40 years has helped facilitate recreational and competitive rowing in the local community.
We are extremely fortunate to be located between Shiplake and Sonning on one of the most beautiful and peaceful stretches of the river.
The club is based in the grounds of Shiplake College, just upstream from Henley-on-Thames.
To find our more about who we are, click the button below.
Our Location
The Shiplake College boathouse is located approximately 10 minutes drive from Henley and 15 minutes from Reading.
What Our Members Say
Hear from members and parents who have experienced Shiplake Vikings Rowing Club
My daughter was a complete boating novice when she began. She’s loving the challenge of learning to row and particularly enjoys the indoor sessions – stretching and using the ergo’s. She’s coming away accompanied by fabulous skills for life.
She’s having fun because the club is warm and encouraging.
Lucy W
I love rowing with SVRC. Our stretch of the river is very special, it’s so beautiful and tranquil. It’s a great club for relaxed rowing for pleasure.
Chris B
Our daughter joined Shiplake Vikings as a complete novice rower 2-3 years ago. Since then, she has found a great sense of friendship with her fellow rowers, and it has done wonders for her both physically and emotionally. The coaches are fantastic, encouraging the girls to push themselves to be the very best they can be, but without if being a chore or overwhelming. We are so grateful for everything the Vikings has to offer!
Emma C
Our daughter found more than a sport when she joined the Shiplake Vikings Club two years ago – she found passion, purpose, and a community that lifts her up. The coaches are caring, committed, and truly invested in each athlete. She feels part of a supportive, united team, and we’re so grateful for the positive impact it has had on her.
Claire F
My daughter learnt to row at Shiplake Vikings and she loves it. Great set up, great coaches and none of the pressure you get in some clubs.
James W
In 1986, as a dad at Shiplake College, I had the great good fortune to follow my son into rowing when a few of us clubbed together to get SVRC going – one of the best decisions of my life!! Rowing at SVRC has been a long and glorious part of an exciting life and I’d like to thank all the delightful and special friends, colleagues, professionals and sports people that I’ve rubbed shoulders with along this delightful journey.
Ken G
It has only been three months since my daughter joined Shiplake Vikings, having previously never rowed. She has leant so much in a short space of time and has had a great time. The coaching and facilities are outstanding. Thank you to all the volunteers for the amazing job you do.
Diana B
A very welcoming and friendly club that accommodates rowers from all backgrounds, abilities and experience
Jim W
Joining the Vikings Senior Rowing Club was the best decision we’ve made as a couple. We came in thinking we’d look like smooth Olympians, but mostly learned that rowing in sync is more complicated than marriage counselling. Our fantastic coaches somehow turned this chaos into something resembling technique, and while the occasional splash reminded us we’re not quite Henley material, the laughter kept us afloat. If you want exercise, camaraderie, and stories funnier than the ones you tell at the pub, this is the club for you
Victoria