Community canoe brings Hackney locals together

Along Regent’s Canal, tucked away in a riverside garden, lies the Community Canoe – a free-to-use public boat.

The initiative was launched in the summer of 2022 by Canadian-born Raphael Holca, who found himself rarely using his own canoe in the city.

Inspired to give back to the community, he decided to share it with local residents.

The canoe, which can comfortably seat three people (or four at a squeeze), is located near Hackney’s Broadway Market and is available to paddlers all year.

Using the canoe is straightforward. Users simply email Raphael, the “captain” of the boat, to arrange access.

Once approved, the canoe can be unlocked for a three-hour adventure.

There are just three rules – paddlers must leave the canoe in good condition, lock it up securely when they're finished and they must stick to a designated stretch of Regent's Canal between Hackney Wick and Regent’s Park.

For 21-year-old Chloe Edwards, the Community Canoe offered an exciting first experience on the water.

A Hackney local, Chloe came across the project on social media and was intrigued enough to give it a try.

"Growing up in London is so busy…there are really no quiet spaces at all; even parks can be so loud because London is so populated, there's millions of people.

"I think it's really important to try to connect with nature, regardless of whether it's a canal in London or a park or just going to feed the ducks… Those little things really do help.

"I would say this is quite a good way to tackle your mental health... it's quite calming and it's like getting you outside."

Beside the canal, a community garden that Raphael and his friend Jamie set up is maintained by volunteers from the Wild East Collective.

Funded by the Canal & River Trust, the team works to plant bulbs, build benches, and keep the garden well-maintained.

The garden has also received creative contributions from local groups like Hackney Mosaic Project, which designed and donated artwork to complement the benches, adding a unique touch to the space.

Not only has the Community Canoe scheme been successful at getting Londoners outdoors, Rapahel says it has also helped to foster community spirit and build trust among people.