Whether you’re completely new to rowing or have previous experience, we’d love to hear from you. Bristol Gig Club welcomes new members aged 12+ and offers opportunities for both recreational and competitive rowing.
Based on Bristol Harbourside, we offer a unique way to get active, meet new people and experience the city from the water. Our club is home to social rowers, competitive crews and junior members, with a strong community spirit both on and off the water.
Ready to get started?
Complete our Membership Enquiry Form to register your interest.
New rowers will be added to our waiting list and contacted when a place becomes available on one of our taster sessions.
Experienced rowers and returning members may be fast-tracked into the club.
How to Join
New to gig rowing?
- Complete the Membership Enquiry Form.
- Join our waiting list.
- Attend taster session/s.
- Become a member and begin our Learn2Row programme.
Experienced gig rower?
Complete the Membership Enquiry Form and tell us about your rowing experience. Depending on your experience, you may be invited to an assessment row before joining.
Returning member?
Please complete the Membership Enquiry Form and let us know that you’ve previously been a member. In most cases, you’ll be able to rejoin without attending an assesment row.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join?
Anyone aged 12 and over is welcome to join Bristol Gig Club, whether you are completely new to rowing or have previous experience.
Based on Bristol Harbourside, we offer a unique way to get active, meet new people and experience the city from the water. Our club has a large active membership, including social rowers, competitive crews and junior members, with a strong community spirit both on and off the water.
There is no upper age limit. Our members range from 12 to 80+ and row for many different reasons, including fitness, friendship, enjoyment and competition.
I’m completely new to rowing. Is it for me?
Absolutely. Most people who join Bristol Gig Club start with no previous rowing experience.
Our taster sessions are designed to introduce you to gig rowing, the boats and the basic techniques needed to become a competent rower. The focus is on learning, building confidence and enjoying your time on the water.
You will be invited to attend taster sessions before deciding whether you would like to join the club. You do not need to make a decision immediately after your first session.
If you decide gig rowing is for you, you will complete your membership and begin our Learn2Row programme (included in membership), where experienced club members will help you develop your skills and become part of the rowing community.
When do you train?
New members begin by taking part in one of our Learn2Row courses. These are scheduled according to the availability of our volunteer coaches and rowers, but typically include a Saturday morning session and a weekday evening session.
Once you’ve completed Learn2Row and become a member, you’ll have access to a wide range of club sessions. As a large and active club, Bristol Gig Club rows every day of the week, with sessions running from 6:00am to 9:00pm, offering plenty of opportunities to fit rowing around work, family and other commitments.
How do I join?
All new members start by completing our Membership Enquiry Form.
Once we receive your enquiry, you will be added to our waiting list for upcoming taster sessions. Taster sessions usually run approximately monthly (between April and September), and we invite people to attend as places become available.
As we have limited boat and coaching capacity, there may be a wait before your first session. We appreciate your patience and will keep you updated throughout the process.
How much do taster sessions cost?
Taster sessions cost £10 per session.
When are taster sessions held?
Taster sessions mostly run between April and September and generally on weekends.
Places are offered to people on our waiting list as sessions become available. The exact timing depends on session availability, boat capacity and coaching resources.
What do I need to bring?
The aim of a taster session is to help you get used to rowing in a boat. While you won’t be rowing at full intensity, you should wear clothing that you are comfortable exercising in.
A few thin layers are better than one thick layer, as this allows you to add or remove layers and stay comfortable throughout the session. If rain is possible, bring waterproof clothing.
For footwear, wear something that can be fastened securely and provides support. A lot of rowing power comes from your legs, so having a firm platform to push against is important. Trainers or walking boots are ideal. No wellies.
Finally, don’t forget to bring something to drink!
What happens after my taster sessions?
All new rowers join a Learn2Row course (Newbie squad), supported by an experienced club member who will help you learn everything you need to know for a safe and enjoyable experience at Bristol Gig Club.
The Learn2Row course is free with your membership and usually runs for around 6 weeks, or until the New Rower Coordinator feels you are ready to move into Open Rows.
How much does membership cost?
The current full adult membership fee is £175 per year, running from 1 February to 31 January.
We also offer family, student, junior and Cox-only membership options. If you join partway through the membership year, fees are charged on a pro-rata basis.
I’m under 18, can I row?
Yes. Bristol Gig Club has a vibrant and competitive Junior section for rowers aged 12–18.
Junior rows run mainly on Saturdays and sometimes weekday evening. If you are interested in joining, please complete the Membership Enquiry Form and indicate that the enquiry is for a junior rower.
I’m an experienced gig rower, how do I join?
Experienced gig rowers are welcome at Bristol Gig Club.
Please complete the Membership Enquiry Form and include details of your previous rowing experience, including clubs you have rowed with, your experience level and any racing background.
Depending on your experience, you may be invited to an assessment and information row before joining. This allows us to understand your ability and help direct you towards the most suitable training sessions and crews.
I’m a returning member, can I re-join?
Welcome back!
Please complete the Membership Enquiry Form and let us know that you have previously been a member of Bristol Gig Club.
In most cases, returning members can rejoin without attending taster sessions.
Still have questions?
If you have any questions about joining Bristol Gig Club, please contact us through the Membership Enquiry Form.