The 2026 Scottish Women's Paddle Symposium (SWPS) will take place 2-4 October 2026 at Roam West, Fort William.

The Scottish Women's Paddle Symposium is a weekend designed for women paddlers to get together, improve their skills and have fun! The main aim of the weekend is to provide development opportunities, mentoring and inspiration to women who want to progress their skills.
The first SWPS event ran in 2009, run by a passionate group of volunteers. An event run BY women, FOR women. Roll the clock forwards to 2026 and this mission and purpose remain the same. This is an event where you can put your own development first, try new things, paddle and socialise with other inspiring female paddlers, all in a supportive friendly environment. Whether you want to try a new discipline, increase your confidence in a specific area, or improve on a specific skill or technique, there is a workshop for you.
The Scottish Women’s Paddle Symposium is an inclusive event open to everyone who identifies as a woman. Please get in touch if you have any questions or would like tailored support to help you access the event. We’ll do our best to welcome everyone.
Venue
The main event base for the 2026 SWPS event will be Roam West, Onich, Fort William, PH33 6SE.
Accommodation will also be available at Corran Bunkhouse, Corran Ferry Approach Road, Onich, Fort William PH33 6SE
Workshop Selection
For the 2026 Scottish Women’s Paddle Symposium event we will run a Workshop Selection system between 20th February and 30th March. The aim of the Workshop Selection system is to help take the pressure off the booking process and give you the best opportunity to get a place on the workshops that you most want to attend.
To register for Workshop Selection please complete theGoogle Form (link available from 0900hrs on 20th February).
How does Workshop Selection work?
- Complete the Workshop Selection form to let us know your workshop choices.
- We’ll assign workshops based on your preferences.
- You will receive an email confirming the workshop spaces that have been reserved for you. At this time you will be provided with a private booking link and invited to book a Package ticket to confirm your place at the event. This must be completed within the Workshop Selection period in order to secure your place at the event.
You must select different workshops for your First, Second, and Third choices, forms that repeat one workshop under all options will be discounted to ensure fair opportunity is given to all.
Please note that if you do not confirm your place at the event by booking a Package ticket before the deadline given, your workshop spaces will be released and made available to others.
Remaining tickets will be released for general sale on 2nd April.
Further information on Workshop Selection
What information do I need before completing the Workshop Selection form?
Please read through the Workshop Descriptions prior to completing the Workshop Selection form. You will need to make a note of the workshop(s) you would like to attend. (First, Second, and Third choice). Please note you must provide different options for your First, Second, and Third choice workshops.
Coming with a friend?
If you plan to attend the event with a friend and would like to attend the same workshop(s) then please indicate this on the Workshop Selection form. We will take this into account when allocating workshop places and priority will be given to workshop choices with higher availability to accommodate friends staying together if requested.
How are workshops assigned?
The information you have provided on your Workshop Selection form will be reviewed by the organising team. We will do our best to secure your preferred workshop(s) wherever possible however due to the high demand of this event this may not always be possible. We expect some workshops to be oversubscribed; we will do our best to allocate you your preferred session, but we cannot guarantee this.
What if I don’t get my first choice workshop?
We will make every possible effort to secure your 1st choice workshop however due to the high demand of this event this may not always be possible. A waitlist will be used and if spaces become available on a workshop you would prefer we will contact you to offer a move.
Can I request Craft hire?
Craft hire can be requested on the Workshop Selection form. Craft hire will be prioritised on Introductory, SUP and Rafting sessions, additional craft hire will then be allocated. Wherever possible please bring your own craft to the event as craft hire will be limited in availability.
Please note that participants should bring all personal equipment. Cags, buoyancy aids, helmets, dry suits etc are not available to hire.
Can I apply for a subsidised ticket during the Workshop Selection period?
Applications for subsidised tickets will be reviewed before the deadline to pay, please don't book/pay until you have received confirmation of your application outcome. Please apply for subsidised tickets here.
Costs
| Event Ticket | Paddle Scotland Member Price* | Non-Paddle Scotland Member Price** | Young Persons/Student Concession*** |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package 1a- Full Board Residential | £345 | £365 | £95 discount applied |
| Package 1b- Self Catering Residential | £255 | £275 | £95 discount applied |
| Package 2- Camper Van Only | £190 | £210 | £95 discount applied |
| Package 3- Non Residential | £180 | £200 | £95 discount applied |
*Paddle Scotland Full, Junior or Recreational Members are eligible for the member rate. Membership is required at the time of booking and must still be in place on the event weekend.
**One year's Paddle Scotland Recreational Membership is included in the non-member rate for anyone who lives in Scotland AND has not been an Paddle Scotland member during the last 3 years.
***The Concession rate is available for Paddle Scotland members (Full, Recreational, Junior) and Paddle Scotland Club Associates who are aged 16-25 or have a valid Student Card. Discount automatically applied to those aged 16-25 and eligible. Students aged 26 and over please email hello@paddlescotland.org.uk with a copy of your Student Card and we’ll send you a discount code.
Pay in Instalments
If you book before 2nd July 2026 you have the option of paying in up to three monthly instalments to spread the costs of the main package tickets.
To pay by instalments for your package ticket please ensure this option is 'switched on' using the toggle under the add ticket button before you reach the checkout stage.
Apply for a Subsidised Place
An £95 discount is available for those on low incomes and/or from under-represented groups. Apply now for a £95 discount on the regular ticket price, applications will be reviewed and you will be contacted to confirm the outcome of your application. The discount can be applied to any Package ticket. Find out more / apply now.
Cancellations
We appreciate that circumstances change, here is a summary of our cancellations policy:
- Full refund (minus a £10 admin fee) if you cancel more than 8-weeks before
- 80% refund (minus a £10 admin fee) if you cancel more than 4-weeks before
- No refund if you cancel less in the final 4-weeks
Tickets are not transferable.
What's Included
| Coached Workshops | Accommodation | Meals | Fri & Sat night Events | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package 1a- Full Board Residential | ✓ | B&B | Dinner on Fri & Sat Breakfast & Lunch on Sat & Sun Tea/Cake | ✓ |
| Package 1b- Self Catering Residential | ✓ | Bed & Self Catering Facilities | Tea/Cake | ✓ |
| Package 2- Camper Van Only | ✓ | Campervan Pitch | メ* | ✓ |
| Package 3- Non Residential | ✓ | メ | メ | メ |
*Optional Full Board meal add on available at ticket purchase for £90.
Craft Hire
Some boats/boards (and equipment) are available to borrow during the event; these must be reserved prior to the event.
Craft hire will be prioritised on Introductory, SUP and Rafting sessions, additional craft hire will then be allocated. If possible please bring your own craft to the event.
Others may be available to book nearer the time if numbers permit, but we recommend that you try and source your own boat/board independently.
Equipment
Please note that participants should bring all personal equipment. Cags, buoyancy aids, helmets, dry suits etc are not available to hire.
Transport
All session start and end points will be coordinated from the event base and communicated with groups in advance. Some groups will be able to use mini-bus transport, whilst others will need to provide their own transport. Some sessions will be local e.g. within 15-min drive, whilst others may need to travel further afield (e.g. to rivers or coastal areas, approx. 60-90 min away). Car sharing is strongly encouraged. There will be limited parking available at the event venues so please car share where possible.
Keep in touch
Follow the
SWPS Facebook Page
Follow SWPS on Instagram
Please contact us if you would like to chat anything through at hello@paddlescotland.org.uk or charlotte.wright@paddlescotland.org.uk.
Workshops
What Level Workshop Should I Choose?
Intro: Designed for people who are new to the activity or want to try it. Covers the basics and introduces participants to the core concepts and techniques. Includes safety instructions, basic terminology, and simple techniques. Delivered at a slow pace, focusing on building confidence and comfort.
Intro-mediate: Bridging the gap between Intro and Intermediate. Designed for people with some experience or familiarity with activity and environment, building on the basic skills learned at intro/ beginner level. Introduces more complex techniques, situations and environments. Involves refining basic techniques, and starting to tackle moderately challenging conditions or tasks. Faster than an intro workshop with an expectation that participants can already handle the basic techniques with some confidence.
Intermediate: You’ve got a solid foundation in paddling skills and are ready to elevate your skills in a supportive environment. The focus will be on refining existing skills, tackling more complex techniques, and building confidence in moderately challenging conditions.
Intermediate+: Bridging the gap between Intermediate and Advanced. Designed for people who are more experienced and knowledgeable than intro-mediate level, but may not yet have the range of skills or confidence for an advanced level. Aimed to deepen existing skills and introduce more advanced techniques, preparing individuals to transition to the advanced level. Participants will work on perfecting intermediate skills and making them second nature. Some advanced manoeuvres and concepts will be introduced, but with more guidance and support than at a full advanced level. Faster and more challenging pace but with opportunities for review and practise before moving on to more difficult tasks.
Advanced: Targeted at individuals who have a solid foundation of knowledge and significant experience in the activity. Focuses on mastering complex techniques, handling difficult / challenging conditions and environments, and refining skills to a high level of proficiency. Includes sophisticated techniques, high level strategies and challenging scenarios. Fast paced and intensive with an expectation that participants can handle complex tasks with minimal instruction.
Workshops
Sea Kayak
Introduction to Sea Kayaking (1 day)
This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in trying sea kayaking and learning essential skills to get started. Whether you're looking to explore new and exciting places or simply enjoy the beauty of a local area, this workshop offers a great introduction to the joys of sea kayaking.
You will spend the day on a nearby loch, focusing on building confidence, learning how to manoeuvre the boat, and paddling efficiently. No prior sea kayaking experience is needed.
Introductory Sea Kayak Trip (1 day)
This trip is perfect for sea paddlers who want to enjoy a guided trip, or paddlers of other craft looking to transfer their skills to the sea while enjoying a fun and memorable day on the water.
To get the most out of the day your skills should allow you to control your boat moving forwards and are confident in a range of environments and conditions (relaxed in wind up to force 3, and some swell).
Introduction to Greenland Rolling Skills (2 days)
The main focus of this two-day workshop is broad across the range of Greenland skills with a focus on the potential offered by the use of the Greenland stick. While it is possible to apply Greenland rolling techniques using euroblades, to get the most from the weekend participants should be willing to undertake mini journeys and experiment with different strokes using a Greenland stick during the weekend. We will also have a chance to look at rolling skills on a 1-2-1 basis tailored to the individual and where they are on their own personal rolling journey. Immersion is optional and much can be gained from this course even if participants do not wish to get their face wet!
Intermediate Sea Kayak Safety Skills (2 days)
This two-day progressive workshop is designed to enhance your ability to have safe and enjoyable sea kayaking trips. It equips you with the skills and tools to make good decisions, plan successful journeys, and manage unexpected incidents on the sea.
Suitable for paddlers confident in winds up to Force 3, this workshop is ideal for those looking to improve their safety practices and expand their knowledge in more dynamic environments.
You will learn and practise essential skills such as self and group rescues, towing, casualty management, and handling environmental challenges. The workshop is based on the content of the British Canoeing Sea Kayak Safety and Rescue award, providing key safety techniques for both sheltered and moderate sea conditions.
Intermediate Sea Kayak Skills (2 days)
This progressive two-day workshop is designed for sea kayakers looking to enhance their skills and decision-making abilities for more challenging coastal environments. Ideal for paddlers comfortable with 10-15 km trips in tidal or non-tidal environments and winds up to Force 3, this workshop will help you develop confidence while navigating rock gardens, caves, and surf beaches.
You will have the opportunity to refine your understanding of weather, tidal planning, and gain the skills needed to manage your kayak and any situations that arise on the sea. With the same group and coaches over both days, you'll build a solid foundation for exploring more adventurous waters.
Advanced Sea Kayak Skills (2 days)
This two-day progressive workshop is designed for paddlers ready to enhance their skills in more challenging sea conditions, including rougher waters, winds over force 4, tides over 2 knots and tide races. The workshop will focus on improving decision-making, personal paddling techniques, and safety and rescue skills, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in dynamic environments.
Tailored to your current skill level, the workshop will adapt to the weather conditions each day, maximising learning opportunities. With the same group of paddlers and coaches throughout, you'll build on existing skills while gaining a deeper understanding of your surroundings and environmental factors.
SUP
Introduction to SUP River Paddling (1 day)
This one-day workshop is designed for individuals who are new to SUP-ing in river environments. Enjoy a relaxed journey on the River Lochy, whilst developing the basic skills and knowledge necessary to safely and confidently paddle on rivers (Grade 1 - 2).
It’s aimed at beginners who have flat, sheltered water SUP experience and are interested in transitioning to river paddling. It’s also suited for individuals who paddle other craft and want to transfer their skills to a SUP.
The session is paced to allow for practice and guidance, ensuring participants gain confidence in each skill in a supportive environment with an emphasis on building foundational skills that can be developed further in more intermediate sessions.
Intro-mediate SUP White Water (Grade 2) (2 days)
This workshop is for paddlers who are comfortable with basic river SUP skills, such as paddling in gentle currents, executing basic turns, and handling easy obstacles. If you are ready to progress to more challenging river environments, this is for you. The session is more fast-paced than an intro/beginner session, with a focus on practice and repetition to build muscle memory and confidence in more challenging scenarios. While still instructional, the pace allows for a greater degree of self-guided practice under the supervision of a coach.
This workshop is ideal for paddlers who want to take their SUP river skills to the next level of the moderate water environment.
Intro-mediate SUP Coastal Skills (2 days)
This progressive 2-day workshop focuses on enhancing paddleboarding skills to manage the unique challenges of coastal conditions. This includes planning, dealing with wind, waves, currents, and more unpredictable weather.
It is tailored for individuals who are comfortable paddleboarding on calm, flat water (like small, sheltered lochs and slow-moving rivers) and are looking to progress to more dynamic environments, such as larger open bodies of water, bays, and coastal areas.
Intermediate SUP White Water Skills (Grade 2/3) (2 days)
This workshop is designed for paddlers who have solid foundational skills/experience in navigating rivers. It is intended for those ready to tackle more demanding river sections, including Grade 3 rapids and more technical river features.
Tailored for those already confident in moderate water, including paddling through Grade 2 rapids, executing precise manoeuvres, and handling dynamic river conditions. This workshop is more intense and fast-paced, requiring participants to quickly apply more challenging techniques and adapt to increasingly complex scenarios. There is an emphasis on independent practice with the guidance and support of coaches, allowing participants to hone their skills in real-time, challenging environments. It is ideal for those who wish to develop their skills for White Water SUP Leader / Coach.
Canoe
Introduction to Canoeing (2 days)
This two day workshop is perfect for anyone early in their canoeing journey. It’s suited for beginners and people who have paddled other craft and want to transfer their skills to a canoe. The workshop focuses on building confidence and comfort in sheltered water environments like lochs with light winds or slow-moving rivers.
You will learn/refine fundamental skills such as paddling strokes, steering techniques, and essential safety practices, including self-rescue and proper use of safety gear. The workshop goes at your pace, with lots of practice time wrapped up in great journeys to ensure everyone gains confidence and enthusiasm.
Intermediate Canoe Skills (Open Water up to F4 & River Grade 2(3) (2 days)
This progressive two day workshop is designed for intermediate canoe paddlers who have experience in both open water (breezy F2/3 conditions) and faster-moving water (Grade 2 white water). It’s ideal for those looking to enhance their abilities in open water and white water environments, opening up possibilities for bigger journeys and expeditions.
This is an opportunity to refine paddling techniques, steering strokes, and rescue skills in both open and white water conditions. You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to read the water, adjust for stability, and use sails for efficient travel across open water. The workshop also covers planning larger journeys and developing self-sufficiency in more dynamic environments.
Advanced Canoe Skills (Open Water & River) (2 days)
This progressive 2 day workshop is for individuals who are already comfortable with moderate canoe skills, open water up to F4, and rivers up to Grade 2(3). You’ll have the opportunity to enhance and develop your techniques and decision making skills in more advanced water environments, including the open water environment force 4+ and the white water environment grade 3. Mastering these environments opens up options for bigger, more challenging journeys and expeditions in the UK and even abroad. This workshop will have plenty of choice and no pressure creating an opportunity for you to develop as you’re feeling comfortable.
White Water Kayak
Introduction to White Water Kayaking (2 day)
Whether you’re new to white water kayaking or have some experience and want to build your skills, these days are designed to help you develop confidence and establish technique on the river.
The aim is to have fun in a low pressure setting and develop the fundamental skills that will set you up for wherever your White-Water Kayak journey takes you. This is a two-day progressive course.
Suitable for people who can paddle on flat or gently flowing water. People with experience in other craft who want to try a new discipline.
Intermediate White Water Kayak Skills (Grade 2 to 3) (2 days)
Do you fancy exploring new rivers including Grade 2-3 (for example the River Lochy and River Awe) and develop your technique to paddle more challenging rapids.
These days are for people with some river kayaking experience already who are ready to consolidate and stretch their skills.
Suitable for people who can paddle on Grade 2 who want to step up the grades. People who want a chance to practice and play to build their confidence on the river.
Intermediate+ White Water Kayak Skills (Grade 3+) (2 days)
If you’re paddling on solid Grade 3 water fairly regularly and you’re wanting to have the confidence to feel good on any stretch of grade 3 water, not just your home run there’ll be an opportunity to stretch into Grade 4 in a calm no pressure environment, where you can make your own decisions and be supported in whatever you decide. You’ll be able to roll in the river environment most times.
Advanced White Water Kayak Skills (Grade 3 & 4) (2 days)
This is for paddlers who are very comfortable on Grade 3 water, with some experience on Grade 4, and want to feel confident running Grade 4 consistently. While having an amazing time on the water, we’ll focus on building boat handling skills, understanding and reading the river, scouting and setting up safety, making smart decisions, and maintaining the right mindset for advanced river paddling.
All Ability
Introduction to Paddlesports (2 Days)
Our All Abilities Paddling Workshop is a relaxed, welcoming experience designed for people of all abilities, bodies, and backgrounds. Whether you’re brand new to paddling or have been on the water before, this workshop is all about having fun, building confidence, and enjoying the outdoors at your own pace in any craft.
Our supportive coaches create a safe, inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to try, explore, and celebrate what their body can do. Adaptive equipment and individualised support are available.
Raft
Introductory Rafting Trip (1 Day)
Get ready for an adventure on Grade 3 rivers—no prior rafting or white-water experience required, just bring your sense of adventure!
The stable raft provides the perfect platform to learn and develop guiding skills, or to be an active part of the crew, all while enjoying breathtaking river scenery.
We’ll be running dam-released rivers such as the River Garry and the River Awe, offering thrilling paddling in stunning locations.












