Small Boat Rally 2026

This year we are very grateful to Pulborough Paddles who are making their private parking and launch facilities at Stopham available for use by rally entrants

1. We are launching at lunchtime this year to run with the tide up to Pallingham and then back down again as the tide turns. Launching is from either Pulborough or Stopham and the choice is yours

2. The rally is an up and back event: Pallingham, the upper tidal limit of the River Arun, is quiet, unspoilt and nicely out in the sticks with no vehicular access, so you will not be able to finish there: you must return to the point from where you launched. The round trip normally takes between 3 and 4 hours from Pulborough and slightly less from Stopham but you are welcome to turn round at any point part way up the river

3. Bring your own craft or rent at Stopham direct from Pulborough Paddles

4. For everyone’s own personal safety and as a good example to others, we request that all participants wear lifejackets or buoyancy aids at all times whilst on or near the water

5. For those launching from Pulborough, space at the Swan Bridge car park is limited and only for use during unloading and later reloading of your craft. If approaching Swan Bridge from the north on the A29, drive across Swan Bridge (still on the A29) to the south side and the entrance to the small car park is immediately on the left. However, when you have finished unloading, for the duration of the rally, please move your vehicle to the station car park (on A283 west: Petworth direction) where their Sunday day-rate is very reasonable. What Three Words address for the small Swan Bridge car park is: ‘furniture.stags.outdoors’

6. For those launching from Stopham, from the A283 please enter the slip road down to the White Hart pub and follow directions given by Wey & Arun Canal Trust marshals. What Three Words address for the Stopham slip road is: ‘confronts.relatives.heightens’

7. The rally is free to enter for all. However, if you are able to make a voluntary contribution, marshals on the day will have donation boxes for cash and mobile payment devices for cards. All donations will be used for the ambitious restoration of the lovely Wey and Arun Canal. To make it easier, you may wish to donate before the event using the link in the registration confirmation email

8. Take your time and enjoy the beautiful Sussex countryside as you pass through – it is a rally not a race! Pallingham is the furthest point of the rally and you will have to turn back there

9. Finally, please remember the two most important items:

• Think safety at all times whilst on or near the water – safety of yourself and safety of others

• Above all else, enjoy yourselves, have fun and have a great day!