Bewl Bridge RC is based at Bewl Water off the A21 just south of Lamberhurst in Kent (map). It's about a 40 minute drive from Junction 5 of the M25. When arriving at Bewl Water, follow the signs for Club Members.
NB If you want to use your own boats on Bewl Water, then you MUST arrange your visit in advance with both the Captain of Bewl Bridge RC (check the Almanack for contact details) and the reservoir Manager - you can't just turn up and row.
Map of the reservoir (207 kb GIF file - will open in a new window). The map also shows, approximately, the route out and back to Bewl Straight.
The Bewl Bridge RC boathouse is adjacent to the Fishing Lodge and Rangers' Office, from where it's a relatively short walk down the hill to the pebbled beach to launch the boats. You will need boots (or tough feet) as it's a "wet launch" off the pebbles (or mud if the water's low) at Bewl.
Most of the rowing takes place in Bewl Straight (see the map of the reservoir), which is directly opposite the Clubhouse and beach. Bewl Straight provides 2000m of sheltered water, which is generally free of sailing dinghies and relatively free of fisherman (but not always!). By continuing into the centre of the reservoir, 2500m pieces are possible. When conditions permit, longer pieces can be accommodated (up to around 3500m by continuing out of Bewl Straight, across the mouth of the Nature Reserve and into Hook Straight. This is only possible outside the fishing season (as Hook Straight is off limits during the season). Two views along Bewl Straight from the Rosemary Lane dam (point D on the main map) - zoomed in - zoomed out.
With prior arrangement it is possible to borrow / hire coaching launches (NB Southern Water do not permit private powerboats to be launched), and there are video replay facilities available in the Clubhouse (as well as changing rooms, showers, tea, coffee, food etc.).
If the water's unrowable due to strong winds, fog or even ice on occasions, then there's plenty of scope for land training, including runs and circuit training (which can make extensive use of the adventure playground). For the less energetic, there's a 13 mile round Bewl Water walk (with strategically placed pubs!), or Scotney Castle with its fantastic gardens just across the A21 (seen here from the top of the main dam).
Other photos - draw-off tower and overflow - view from the top of the main dam