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50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Sailing Club in Bolton
Bolton Sailing Club stands as one of the North West's longest-established sailing clubs, offering a rich tradition of dinghy racing and comprehensive training programs. Our picturesque 40-hectare reservoir, nestled beneath Winter Hill, provides ideal conditions for sailing enthusiasts of all levels. As an RYA Recognised Training Centre, we deliver structured courses aligned with national standards, supported by qualified instructors and modern equipment. Our vibrant community fosters camaraderie through competitive racing, social events, and inclusive initiatives like Sailability, which welcomes individuals of all abilities. The clubhouse features extensive facilities, including changing rooms, dining areas, and a well-stocked bar, creating a welcoming environment for members and visitors.

With a calendar packed with races, regattas, and social gatherings, we cater to both dedicated racers and casual sailors seeking relaxation. Our commitment to safety and accessibility is evident in our rescue boats, secure dinghy park, and tailored programs for juniors and adults. The club also hosts Lancaster University Sailing Club, reinforcing our role as a regional hub for maritime education and recreation. Established over seven decades ago, our legacy combines competitive excellence with a family-friendly ethos, ensuring a dynamic yet inclusive atmosphere. Whether you're a novice seeking RYA certification or an experienced sailor pursuing competitive challenges, Bolton Sailing Club provides the expertise, infrastructure, and community to elevate your sailing experience.
Services
RYA Training Courses Dinghy Racing Powerboat Courses Shorebased Courses Instructor Training
Details
  • Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
  • We are an RYA Recognised Training Centre with structured national sailing scheme courses
  • Our 40-hectare reservoir offers ideal sailing conditions with panoramic countryside views
  • We provide inclusive Sailability programs for individuals of all physical and mental abilities
  • Our competitive racing calendar includes weekly races and annual regattas for all skill levels
  • We maintain modern facilities including secure dinghy parks and fully equipped clubhouse amenities
Associations and certifications
  • Royal Yachting Association
  • Sailability Foundation
Services
RYA Training Courses
Structured Royal Yachting Association courses for all ages and abilities, from beginner to instructor level. Our certified instructors deliver practical and theoretical training using modern equipment with comprehensive safety measures. Courses include adult and youth dinghy sailing, powerboating, and shorebased instruction.
Dinghy Racing
Weekly racing series and annual regattas for competitive sailors, featuring Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter race formats. The club hosts national-level competitions and GP14 youth championships, with four races every Sunday and midweek evening events during summer months.
Sailability Programs
Specialist sailing opportunities for individuals with physical or mental disabilities, following the RYA's nationwide accessibility initiative. Participants train in double-seater Access dinghies with experienced co-sailors, progressing at their own pace in a supportive environment within our scenic reservoir.
Instructor Training
Professional development programs for aspiring sailing instructors, aligned with RYA national standards. The curriculum covers teaching methodologies, safety protocols, and practical instruction techniques, preparing candidates to deliver certified courses at various levels.
Powerboat Courses
Specialised training in powerboat handling and operation, covering safety procedures, navigation, and emergency response. Courses cater to recreational users and those seeking professional qualifications, with practical sessions conducted on our reservoir's controlled waters.
Questions
What RYA courses do you offer?
We provide RYA Level 1 Adult Dinghy Courses, Youth Dinghy Courses, Powerboat Courses, Shorebased Courses, and Instructor Training programs.
Can non-members participate in training?
Our training courses are exclusively available to club members. Membership grants access to all sailing programs and facilities.
What racing opportunities exist?
We host weekly races on Sundays, midweek summer events, and annual regattas including the GP14 Youth Championships and Supernova Open Meeting.
Are facilities accessible for disabled sailors?
Yes, our Sailability program provides adapted dinghies and specialist instruction for individuals with physical or mental disabilities.
What social events occur annually?
Our calendar includes a Summer Ball, Annual Dinner and Prize Giving, Christmas Carol Concert, and regular themed social evenings.
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Reviews (3)
Stefan Alan Strowger
Jun 24, 2019 Report
Great atmosphere, top training and help. All round amazing community to be apart of with great facilities and most importantly wifi 😉
Graham Hough
Apr 30, 2018 Report
My daughter sails with the help of the excellent Sailablity team.. They couldn't be a more helpful group of people. They have trained me, Graham, a complete novice, to be able to sail with her in their specially designed boats. Highly recommended
Sally Wallace
Mar 09, 2018 Report
Great, friendly and a stunning place to sail. I'm part of the Sailability group. EVERYbody is welcome and welcomed to sail here on Belmont reservoir. We are an active group of disabled sailors, with most of us starting with no knowledge of sailing, whatsoever. Some of us, now sail single handedly and others sail in twos. Click on send message, above, stating an interest in Sailability, for the attention of Hannah, for more information.