Brentford Boat Club Moves to Dukes Meadows
Young rowers bring long unused slipway back into action
Club members help clean up the slipway. Picture: Brentford Boat Club
March 19, 2026
Brentford Boat Club has completed it forced moved from Ferry Quays to Dukes Meadows.
After its rowers lost the use of Brentford Community Boat House following a dispute with Team Keane, it has found a new home at The Old Boathouse site, owned by Hounslow Council. This facility had fallen into disuse and become heavily overgrown, but it offered the club a rare opportunity to establish a long-term base on the Thames. The council granted access to the site earlier this year, allowing the club to begin restoring the area.
They have now uncovered a long-buried boating slipway, breathing new life into a site that had been unused for more than five years. Members, parents and young athletes have spent recent weeks clearing thick layers of silt, mud and debris from the Old Boathouse site on the corner of Dan Mason Drive, where the club has relocated following the loss of its previous base.
The rediscovered slipway, overlooked by the landmark Barnes Bridge, has already transformed training opportunities for the club’s young rowers. Children have been able to launch boats there for the first time in years, marking a significant milestone in the club’s development. Basic temporary facilities have been installed while the club raises funds for its operations, future ambitions and the purchase of a racing boat for the National Schools Regatta in May.
Left: the club's crews now have river access. Right: Volunteers help clear the slipway of derbis
Brentford Boat Club has quickly made its mark on the national rowing scene, taking children from complete beginners to medal-winners at major competitions. More than 90 per cent of its members come from nearby state schools, and the club places a strong emphasis on widening access to rowing and supporting young people’s confidence and aspirations both on and off the water.
The club says it has been overwhelmed by the support it has received from the wider rowing community along the Thames, who have offered equipment, advice and practical help during the transition to the new site.
Brentford Boat Club is continuing to raise funds to develop the Old Boathouse site and support its athletes. New members and potential sponsors are also welcome to get in touch via admin@brentfordboatclub.com.
More information can be found at brentfordboatclub.com or on Instagram at @brentfordboatclub.
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