boat trip lee valley

Welcome to Lee Valley Boat Centre

Lee Valley Boat Centre Old Nazeing Road Broxbourne EN10 6LX 01992 462 085

Prices shown below are for 2024 and are subject to change.

BOAT HIRE We offer a boat skipper service, subject to availability

Weather dependant, please call ahead especially after heavy rains, as the river may be in flood and/or unsafe. Hirer must be over 21 and present on the boat during the entire hire period or you must hire a boat skipper. If you require a skipper for the day please request when booking.Due to insurance and licensing restrictions a skipper would be included in the passenger count.

Day Boat Terms and Conditions

Mr Badger & Mr Mole

Gallery     Availability    Mr.Badger    Mr.Mole

32' long x 10' wide Maximum 12 persons Tiller steering with diesel engine.

High Season and Weekends - £360 per day. Low Season - £310 per day.

£250.00 security deposit must be left via Debit Card Only at the boat centre on the day of hire. Facilities included: Hot and cold running water, interior and exterior seating, WC, cooker with oven and grill, fridge, radio/CD player, crockery & cutlery

Gallery       Availability      Mr.Toad

27' long x 7' wide Maximum 8 persons. Wheel steering with diesel engine.

High Season and Weekends - £240 per day. Low Season - £210 per day.

£250.00 security deposit must be left via Debit Card Only at the boat centre on the day of hire. Facilities included: Hot and cold running water, interior and exterior seating, WC, 4 burner hob, radio/CD player, crockery & cutlery.

Gallery       Availability      Mr.Otter

30' long x 7' wide Maximum 8 persons. Tiller steering with diesel engine.

Mr Owl & Mr Fox

Gallery       Availability      Mr.Owl      Mr.Fox

30' long x 7' wide Maximum 10 persons. Tiller steering with diesel engine.

High Season and Weekend - £300 per day. Low Season - £260 per day.

Privacy Overview

Skip To Main Content

Follow Us...

• Guided Town Walking Tours
• Boat hire on the River Thames
• Boating Information
• Owning a Boat
• Boat Builders & Boatyards on the River Thames
• Services for Boat Owners and Water Sports

Marinas and Services

• Private Charters
• Stand up Paddle Boarding
• Free Fishing
• Lock and Weir Fishing
• Anglers with disabilities
• Henley - Walkers are welcome
• Walking Tours
• Water Walks and Winter Warmers
• Walks for All
• Walking Breaks
• Walking Rail Trails
• Thames Valley Museums
• Special Offers
• Best Spa Breaks at Stunning River Thames Hotels
• Afternoon Tea
• Pubs & Inns
• Brakspear Pubs
• Best Outdoor Dining
• Food & Drink Experiences along the Thames
• Active Experiences On & Around the River Thames
• Bed and Breakfast
• Self Catering
• Camping and Caravans
• Youth Hostels
• Boating Holidays
• Staycations/holidays on the River Thames
• Wallingford
• Spring Highlights
• Book a Spring/Summer Break in Reading
• Spring & Summer breaks/Staycations in Henley
• Staycations/holidays in and around Windsor
• Book a Spring/Summer Break in Marlow
• Escape The Everyday On the Water
• Cheap Days Out
• Family Fun Events
• Family Getaways
• Messing About on the River
• Family Activity Breaks
• Explore the Thames Before You Go
• Weekend Breaks
• Romantic Rooms With A View
• Autumn & Winter Breaks on the River Thames
• The Family's River
• The Couple's River
• The Heritage River
• Thames Path Walks to Enjoy
• Just The Two of Us
• Five of the best on the River Thames
• Luxury & Unique Experiences
• Picnic & BBQ locations
• Corporate Team Building Ideas
• Film & TV Connections
• Thames Evening Experiences
• Explore Thames Valley with Great Western Railway
• Henley – Town of Festivals
• Thames Path National Trail celebrates 20 Years
• Royal Swan Upping
• Museum Events

Henley Literary Festival

• Water based activities
• Travel Trade
• Thames Travel Trade Update
• Coach & Tour Operators
• Special Events

Itineraries

• Conference Venues
• Wedding Venues
• Map Of The River Thames
• Information For Boaters
• Information on toilets and water points
• River Thames Locks
• River Thames Conditions, Closures and Restrictions
• How to get to each town
• British Marine

Thames Path National Trail

• Thames Estuary Partnership
• BBO Wildlife Trust
• Photography of the River Thames
• Publications
• Great West Way
• Visit Thames Marketing Partnership
• Useful Contacts

You are here: Things to Do > Lee Valley Boat Centre

Lee Valley Boat Centre

Type: british marine.

Tel: +44 (0)1992 462085

Fax : +44 (0)1992 440235

Visit Website

TripAdvisor

Map & directions, what's nearby.

Thames River Adventures

Why not take to the river with us and enjoy an exciting day out as you paddle the Thames,…

Livetts Group

Thames Luxury Charters is a family business, owned and operated by the Livett family, who…

Victoria Embankment Gardens

A few steps away from the River Thames on Victoria Embankment, and just outside of…

Afternoon Tea Cruise on the Thames in London with City Cruises

Tuck into tea, scones and all the trimmings of a traditional afternoon tea while cruising…

City Cruises

City Cruises is the No.1 sightseeing tour on the Thames! Our cruises departing every 40…

The Doctor Who walk organised by Team Activity Group

The Doctor Who walk organised by Team Activity Group is a two hour adventure along the…

The fastest boat in the fleet. Blow away the cobwebs and enjoy a fun filled, adrenaline…

Thames River Services and Circular Cruise Westminster

Houses of Parliament audio and guided tours

Explore 1000 years of history, politics and stunning art and architecture with Houses of…

Chas Newens Marine Co Ltd

Chas Newens Marine Co. Ltd has been established on the River Thames since 1978 evolving…

Enjoy classic cruises along the most picturesque and best-loved banks of the River…

River Thames Boat Project

River Thames Boat Project offers therapeutic cruises and educational activities on the…

Walter Hammerton & Co Ltd

Hammertons Ferry is a passenger and cycle ferry service across the River Thames in the…

Merry Pedaller Bike Tours

A tour company specializing in one way guided bike rides and luggage transfer to historic…

Black Park - lakeside cafe, disabled access, walks, horse riding, orienteering. Langley…

Hampton Court Palace

This magnificent palace set in delightful gardens was famously one of Henry VIII’s…

• Escape The Everyday
• Accessibility Statement
• Data Protection Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Groups/Venues

© Visit Thames 2024. All Rights Reserved

Don't Miss

Traditional Boat Festival

Henley Handmade Fair

Regatta for Disabled

Hobbs of Henley

Henley Canoe Hire

The Runnymede on Thames

Compleat Angler Hotel

Beetle and Wedge

The Chilterns

Vintage Days Out

Salter Steamers

Hambleden Lock on the River Thames

British Marine on the River Thames

French Brothers

The Oakley Court

Welcome to River Lee Cruises

Lee Valley Boat Centre Old Nazeing Road Broxbourne EN10 6LX 01992 462 085 Lee Valley Boat Centre

Prices for circular cruises are as follows. Adults TBC Child/Concs TBC

Upcoming Public Cruises not currently running

These must be booked in advance.

• Fathers Day , 16th June 2024 .

Upcoming Circular Cruises not currently running

Depart from opposite the boat centre

PRIDE OF THE LEE CRUISES

Minimum 12 (passengers at adult price) Maximum 17 passengers All prices are per person and include both meal and boat hire There is a bar selling beer and wine, however, we have limited space, and on occasion may have limited stock. We sell a selection soft drinks and snacks. Various teas and coffee available. You may NOT consume your own food or drink on board. (Except Boat hire with your own food.) Radio / CD player with 3.5mm connection available. You may bring your own CD's or IPod All cruises are available at lunchtime, afternoon and evening, subject to availability Cruises last between 1¾ and 2 Hours, except Boat Only.

Terms and Conditions Lady of Lee Valley

Terms and Conditions Pride of Lee

Privacy Overview

• All Day Trips
• 2024 Day Trips
• UK Day Trips
• European Day Trips

River Cruises

• Steam Trains
• Historic Attractions
• Flowers & Gardens
• Zoos & Animals
• Shows & Festivals
• Theatre Trips
• Towns & Cities
• Christmas Trips
• Shopping Trips
• Theme Parks
• Food & Drink
• Online Exclusives
• 2025 Day Trips
• 2024 Holidays
• UK Holidays
• European Holidays
• Warner Holidays
• River Cruise Holidays
• Platinum Holidays
• East of England
• East Midlands
• West Midlands
• Gift Vouchers
• Our Brochures
• Competitions
• Booking Conditions

Embark on a day trip to the world-renowned Thames River, the tranquil Lee Valley, or the scenic Medway. As you cruise on these beautiful waterways, enjoy the breathtaking views that unfold right before your eyes. Experience the peacefulness of the riverside, with lush green meadows, beautiful bridges, and captivating historical landmarks.

Enjoy the afternoon in Henley-on-Thames including a 1-hour return river trip with Hobbs of Henley

Celebrate the Yuletide merriment with Christmas lunch aboard one of the Blue Funnel festively decorated vessels

Keyword Search

Availability search, contact us:.

• Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies to store essential information. By continuing to browse the website you are agreeing to their use. With your permission we would like use additional cookies. For more information you can view our cookie policy . Select Settings to change your cookie preferences. To allow the use of all cookies select Accept.

Go Paddling

River lee navigation / river lea, paddlepoints, search results.

WATERWAYS LICENCES

Many waterways in England and Wales require a licence to paddle. Check the licence section below to see if this is one. Save money on your licence and secure paddling insurance by joining British Canoeing. Use our easy step RapidJoin process. Open the slider to join .

Welcome to PaddlePoints Waterways. These pages focus on individual bodies of water across the UK. On this page you'll find a map, launches, routes, licensing information, paddle trail downloads, services, and more about one particular river or canal. For the full PaddlePoints with search bar follow this link .

PaddlePoints can be accessed without creating a free account, but registering will allow you to map your own public and private routes on this waterway. You will also be able to comment on others' points, upload images, and create Personal Information Markers to receive updates about new routes and points.

You can use the buttons above to access map information on other waterways. Simply toggle the waterway to display it. If you do, note that the content surrounding the map area will remain the same. Use the green file icon next to the toggle if you want to open another dedicated river or canal page with relevant licensing information.

Use the icon above to access the legend. All map points, rivers, and canals information will appear in this section here. Click or tap a point on the map to display the information. Actual routes will appear on the map.

• Afon Mawddach
• Afon Tyweryn
• Eas Gobhain
• East Lyn River  
• Lower Nith and Estuary
• Middle Level Navigation  
• New Bedford River  
• Old Bedford River  
• River Aire  
• River Alde  
• River Ancholme  
• River Ant  
• River Avon (Bristol)  
• River Avon (Warwickshire)  
• River Axe  
• River Bain  
• River Balvaig
• River Barle  
• River Beaulieu  
• River Beauly
• River Brue  
• River Bure  
• River Calder
• River Cam  
• River Cherwell  
• River Chet  
• River Clyde
• River Colne
• River Conwy
• River Cuckmere  
• River Dart  
• River Dearne
• River Deben  
• River Dee  
• River Dee (Galloway)
• River Dee (Grampian)
• River Derwent (Derbyshire)  
• River Derwent (Yorkshire)  
• River Derwent - Cumbria  
• River Don  
• River Dove  
• River Duddon  
• River Eden  
• River Erme  
• River Esk  
• River Exe  
• River Feshie
• River Findhorn
• River Glass
• River Glen  
• River Great Ouse  
• River Greta  
• River Helford
• River Idle  
• River Itchen  
• River Kennet  
• River Kent  
• River Lagan  
• River Lark  
• River Lee Navigation  
• River Leven (Cumbria)  
• River Little Ouse  
• River Lugg  
• River Lune  
• River Medway  
• River Mersey  
• River Mole  
• River Nene  
• River Orchy
• River Ore  
• River Orwell  
• River Ouse  
• River Ouse - Sussex  
• River Parrett  
• River Parrot
• River Ribble  
• River Rothay
• River Rother
• River Rother (Sussex)  
• River Severn  
• River Soar  
• River South Tyne
• River Spey  
• River Stort  
• River Stour, Kent  
• River Stour,Suffolk  
• River Taf  
• River Tamar  
• River Taviot
• River Taw  
• River Tees  
• River Teign  
• River Teith
• River Thames  
• River Thurne  
• River Tone  
• River Torridge  
• River Trent  
• River Tweed  
• River Tweed
• River Tyne  
• River Ure  
• River Wansbeck  
• River Waveney  
• River Wear  
• River Weaver  
• River Welland  
• River Wensum  
• River Wey  
• River Wharfe
• River Wissey  
• River Witham  
• River Wye  
• River Yare  
• Water of Deugh
• Water of Ken
• Aire and Calder Navigation  
• Ashby Canal  
• Ashton Canal  
• Basingstoke Canal  
• Birmingham and Fazeley Canal  
• Birmingham and Wolverhampton Canal  
• Birmingham Canal Navigations  
• Black Sluice Navigation  
• Bridgewater Canal  
• Bridgwater and Taunton Canal  
• Burwell Lode  
• Calder & Hebble Navigation  
• Caldon Canal  
• Caledonian Canal
• Chelmer and Blackwater navigation  
• Chesterfield Canal  
• Coventry Canal  
• Crinan Canal
• Cromford Canal  
• Droitwich Canal  
• Dudley Canal  
• Erewash Canal  
• Exeter Ship Canal  
• Forth and Clyde Canal
• Forty Foot (Vermuden's) Drain
• Fossdyke Navigation  
• Gloucester to Sharpness Canal  
• Grand Union Canal  
• Grand Union Canal Harborough Branch  
• Grand Union Canal - Leicester Arm  
• Grand Union Canal - Loughborough Navigation  
• Grand Union Canal - Paddington Arm  
• Grand Union Canal Welford Arm  
• Grand Western Canal  
• Grantham Canal  
• Haddiscoe Cut  
• Huddersfield Broad Canal  
• Huddersfield Narrow canal  
• Kennet and Avon Canal  
• Lancaster Canal  
• Leeds and Liverpool Canal  
• Llangollen canal  
• Lydney Canal  
• Macclesfield Canal  
• Manchester Ship Canal  
• Monmouth Brecon Canal  
• Montgomery Canal
• New Junction Canal  
• Nottingham and Beeston Canal  
• Oxford Canal  
• Peak Forest Canal  
• Pocklington Canal  
• Reach Lode  
• Regents Canal  
• Ripon Canal  
• Rochdale Canal  
• Royal Military Canal  
• Rushall Canal  
• Selby Canal  
• Sheffield and Tinsley Canal  
• Shropshire Union Canal  
• Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal  
• Stainforth and Keadby Canal  
• Stourbridge Canal  
• Stratford-upon-Avon Canal  
• Stroudwater Navigation  
• Swaffham Bulbeck Lode  
• Swansea Canal  
• Tame Valley Canal  
• Titford Canal  
• Trent and Mersey Canal  
• Union Canal
• Walsall Canal  
• Wednesbury Old Canal  
• Wicken Lode  
• Worcester and Birmingham Canal  
• Wyrley and Essington Canal  

Filters and Legend

On loading PaddlePoints only small route and launch icons show. As you zoom in the other, larger, icons will appear. Filter these by activating the icons below. Please note that some filters have multiple icons. For example, choosing the Hire icon will also display some club icons as they offer hire services. We have a lot of PaddlePoints. We recommend you zoom in before activating too many at a time. Press Reset Filters to display all PaddlePoints on map.

My PaddlePoints

After logging in you will be able to view and edit your Personal Interest Markers (PIMs) and paddling routes.

Add PaddlePoint

Please choose the type of PaddlePoint to enter. When you select it, a pin will drop on the center of the map. You can then drag the pin. When you drop it, you will be able to enter the details and upload photos.

Please note, by uploading your images you give us the right to use them on the Go Paddling website, social media, and for promoting PaddlePoints. Follow this link to learn more about out how we process your data

Before an organisation can become a British Canoeing Delivery Partner and display the Delivery Partner logo, it must agree to our Delivery Partner Charter. Partners have agreed to our terms and conditions which stipulate our high standards of safety, value for money and customer service.

Being a Delivery Partner is an indication to schools, parents and other customers that the partner takes its responsibilities seriously, using highly trained, qualified and competent staff, to deliver a high quality customer focused product. All Delivery Partners have made a commitment to working in environmentally friendly and sustainable ways and are subject to appropriate quality assurance.

Services content here

Activities content here

Disciplines content here

Facilities content here

Products content here

Waterlevels content here

Location content here

Please note that PaddlePoints is a collaborative resource and as such, the information entered on PaddlePoints is done so by the paddling community, for the paddling community. Users should note that just because a PaddlePoint has been added, this does not necessarily confer a right of access and it is the responsibility of the individual user to ensure they are not trespassing on private land. Further information can be found here . If you believe any content added is incorrect or otherwise contains abusive or unacceptable content, please report it to us using the “Report PaddlePoint” button below.

Add Comment

There are two main ways to add routes. The first is to draw directly on the map from this point. This allows you to follow the route you took. You can use the blue control box to change colour during drawing. This may be for different elements such as portage or to highlight going through a tunnel.

The second way is by GPX. If you have a GPX file you have recorded you can import this to save you having to draw the route. Please note, the GPX route must be from this PaddlePoint. If not, you will need to add a new PaddlePoint and then import the route from there.

Add GPX Route

Please note, this is for files that end in .gpx only. For an explanation of GPX files please visit this Ordnance Survey article.

To upload your .gpx file either drag it into the space below, or click in the space to choose the file to upload.

Please note, by uploading your route you give us the right to use it on the Go Paddling website, social media, and for promoting PaddlePoints. Follow this link to learn more about how we process your data

This route starts too far away from the selected PaddlePoint. Please select an existing PaddlePoint and attach the route to it, or add a new PaddlePoint at the start position.

This button will centre the map to the start of the route

Add a Direct Draw Route

You will see the blue control box at the bottom left hand side of the map. This allows you to change colour, undo any mistakes, and track distance plotted. Simply click or tap the map and the line will draw. As you draw, the distance updates.

When you have completed the route, click Finished. You will then be able to enter a title, photos, and choose whether you want it to be a public or a private route. Public and private settings can be changed at any time in your Profile Overview.

Report PaddlePoint

Please use this function to report a PaddlePoint which is in the incorrect place or which has abusive or unacceptable content. If there is a slight adjustment to the content or details of the PaddlePoint, please use the Comments feature to add them.

Edit PaddlePoint Comment

River licensing information, licence required, license authority, further information.

Includes: Limehouse Basin to Hertford

Useful Links

  Hertford to Broxbourne Paddle Trail

  Waltham Abbey to Tottenham Marshes Paddling Trail

Dating back to Roman times, the River Lea is one of the biggest rivers in London. Rising in the Chiltern Hills, it flows southeast through London before entering the Thames in London’s East End.

Much of the River Lea is now canalised and known as the River Lee Navigation. This navigation flows past the Lee Valley White Water Centre .

It’s the place where Etienne Stott and Tim Baille won gold, and David Florence and Richard Hounslow snatched silver at the London 2012 Olympic Games. A historic day in terms of British canoe slalom medals!

The navigation also continues south from here and flows past the Olympic 2012 site. It flows past the old athletics stadium, (West Ham Football Club), the Orbit designed by Anish Kapoor, the velodrome and more.

In terms of wildlife, it’s not a river you’ll find lots of wildlife along. However, the upper stretches are classed as a chalk stream. Closer to London, seals have been spotted as well as ‘monster pike!’

Those looking for a playspot should head to Dobbs Weir ( see point on map above ). Or if you’re looking for some white water fun, the stretch from Welwyn Gardens has some grade 1 rapids… but look out for tree hazards!

Paddle UK Services Login

Landing page of the home of recreational paddling.

Paddle Blogs

All you need to know to help you get on the water.

Discover and create your own paddling routes and launches.

Rivers and Canals

Explore paddling on your favourite UK rivers and canals.

Paddle UK Lakes

Discover paddling launches and routes on key UK lakes.

Paddling Look Ups

Look up paddling clubs , centres, hirers, paddle-ability, and more.

Landing page for Clear Access Clear Waters campaign.

Get Informed

Learn about the Clear Access Clear Waters campaign.

Online Petition

Show your MP you support us. Sign our petition.

Campaign Locally

All you need to carry out your own local campaign.

Paddle Clean Ups

All you need to carry out your own river cleanups.

Welcome to the home of Paddle UK.

Discover the benefits of membership. Join Paddle UK today.

Waterways Licence

Learn about the licence, if your waterway is covered, and what the money goes towards.

Latest Updates

Learn the latest updates from the world of paddling.

Clubhouse Login

Login only. A dedicated space for Chairs, Treasurers, Safety Officers, and other volunteers in key roles in Paddle UK Affiliated Clubs.

Discover the world's largest paddling course provider.

New Starters

Paddlesport Leader , Paddlesport Instructor and Coach Award courses

All Courses

From sheltered water to white water find a course that's right for you

Develop Skills

Interactive widgets to help you plan your development pathway

SUP Courses

Focus on Stand Up Paddleboard. Courses for SUP instructors.

Contact details for the Paddles Up Training team

Sign in to, or check the status of, your Paddle UK Services Login account.

Register for SSO

One login, many sites. Register here for a Paddle UK Services Login.

To canoe, kayak or paddle board on many rivers and canals you need a licence. Purchased individually, licences would cost you around £130.

National association membership of organisations such as British Canoeing offers you licences covering 4,500km of waterways for as little as £29-£47 a year. Learn more and join now using the button below.

Rapid Join is temporarily unavailable while we make some changes. In the meantime you can join British Canoeing on our JustGo website here

Save Money On Your Waterways Licence

British Canoeing membership comes with a waterways licence . So, Canoe, Kayak, or SUP, if you love paddling and care about waterways, join our community today.

• Save money on a licence for 4,500km of waterways
• Be covered by public liability insurance - plus discounts on craft insurance
• Enjoy exclusive paddler gear discounts and offers
• Receive top tips and latest paddler enews
• Help support the Clear Access Clear Waters campaign
• Be part of the UK’s largest paddling community

If you're an England or non-UK resident seeking individual membership for the first time then use the British Canoeing RapidJoin service below. Start by entering your postcode, or country if you are non-UK.

If you require a couples or family membership or you’re a lapsed British Canoeing member, then please use the British Canoeing membership portal here .

Joining using RapidJoin below you'll purchase On The Water membership. You can find the full list of benefits here . You will be asked your date of birth and allocated the correct membership type for your age. Prices are:

• Individual Adult (Over 23) - £60
• Young Person (18-22) - £47
• Youth (Under 18) - £37

Please note, if you live in Northern Ireland please join through the CANI website here . If you live in Scotland join using the Paddle Scotland website here . Finally, if you live in Wales please join using the Canoe Wales website here .

Your personal data will only be used for administering your application and providing you with your membership services. Please see the British Canoeing Privacy Centre here for more details on how we manage your data.

Member Add-Ons - One Time Offer!

As a joining member you can benefit from discounts on paddling magazines. These offers are ONLY AVAILABLE NOW. They will cost you more if you purchase them in future. Don't miss out. Take the opportunity to benefit from these great deals now.

Enjoy 20% off the Paddler Magazine. Find out more and view past issues here. Please choose an option below.

• Single Issue £4.99
• Six Issues £23.99
• No thank you

Especially for paddleboarders. Enjoy 23% off SUPM. Find out more and view past issues here. Please choose an option below.

• Single Issue £6.49
• Four Issues £23.95

Craft Insurance

Today pay only £60 for a full year cover. Full insurance details are available on the British Canoeing website here . Package includes:

• Insures up to two craft (kayaks, paddleboards, canoes) up to £2,000 each.
• Up to £250 cover for any one paddle
• Theft cover where the canoe is suitably secured.
• Accidental damage included. Excludes denting and bruising while in transit

No perks! Are you sure...?

Sorry to interrupt your flow. But, before moving to payment, we just wanted to check that you didn't want any member add-ons.

It's the last time you'll be able to purchase great paddling magazines with discounts? They offer advice that helps you get the most from your paddling.

Use the back button below so you don't miss out. Or hit the next button to go to payment.

Pay Securely With Stripe

Please complete your payment details below to secure your purchases. If you have any issues, please contact membership on 0300 0119 500 during office hours: 9am-5pm Monday to Friday, UK time. If you experience problems out of office hours, please email the team here and someone will be in contact the next working day.

You should receive your membership pack through the post in the next 7 days. But you can get on the water today. Download your card as a PDF using the button below, and use it as proof of your membership and waterways licence.

Your membership number is 123456

Please spend a few seconds to let us know how we are doing. Your feedback will help us improve.

Press Herald

Account Subscription: ACTIVE

Questions about your account? Our customer service team can be reached at [email protected] during business hours at (207) 791-6000 .

• Local & State

Celebrate Juneteenth at these Maine events

The holiday is Wednesday, but events start this weekend and run through the end of the month.

You are able to gift 5 more articles this month.

Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. Learn more .

With a Press Herald subscription, you can gift 5 articles each month.

It looks like you do not have any active subscriptions. To get one, go to the subscriptions page .

Loading....

Westbrook Middle School students Bella Zollarcoffer, Priscila Nzolameso and Sarikong Oak held tables educating and informing the community on Black hair history at Westbrook’s Juneteenth celebration last year. Cullen McIntyre/Staff Photographer

Juneteenth, which became both a federal and state holiday in 2021 , celebrates the anniversary of federal troops’ arrival in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to ensure all enslaved people had been freed. This year, the holiday falls on Wednesday, but celebrations are happening over the next two weeks.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. –  Indigo Arts Alliance presents The Welcome Table, an intergenerational symposium celebrating global cultural and culinary histories. Activities include art, movement and meditation workshops led by activists and cultural workers. 60 Cove St., Portland.  indigoartsalliance.me

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Victoria Mansion is hosting a community day with free admission and a recitation of the Emancipation Proclamation by local actors. 109 Danforth St. Portland.  victoriamansion.org

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Space and the Tate House Museum are putting on a Juneteenth community day with free admission and tours of Ashley Page’s “Imagining Freedom” exhibit at the museum. The historical art piece puts viewers into the shoes of an enslaved woman named Bet. 1267 Westbrook St., Portland.  space538.org Advertisement

1-6:30 p.m. –  The first event of “The City that Carries Us: Pain, Streets, and Heartbeats” will take place at the Public Theatre in Lewiston. The celebration will have a parade and a block party with performances, as well as scheduled activities and rituals throughout the day. It is hosted by the organization Maine Inside Out. 31 Maple St., Lewiston, maineinsideout.org

2-3 p.m. –  Through “Poems of Reckoning and Resilience,” the Portland Museum of Art and Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance seek to honor the legacy of Black Americans. Featured poet Nathan McClain will join local poets in the Great Hall at the museum to celebrate Black liberation and creativity. The museum is also offering free admission Saturday through Monday, in celebration of both Juneteenth and Pride Month. 7 Congress Square, Portland.  mainewriters.org

11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. –  The fifth annual Juneteenth Celebration on House Island in Casco Bay will focus on Black joy, as well as nature, health and economic opportunity. Guests can stay for one or two days, and partake in activities like camping, hiking, yoga and games, all led by BIPOC leaders. Fortland, House Island, Portland.  eventbrite.com

4:30-7 p.m. –  The Community Organizing Alliance is putting on an event with speakers, live performances, poetry readings, a voter registration drive and catering by Bab’s Table. There will also be opportunities to get involved in the racial justice movement. The Atrium at Bates Mill, 36 Chestnut St., Lewiston.  eventbrite.com

1-3 p.m. –  Riverbank Park in Westbrook will host a community event with art, poetry, music and guest speakers. There will also be a barbecue picnic, a student fashion show, hair braiding, pick-up soccer and more activities sponsored by the city. 667 Main St., Westbrook.  On Facebook.

7-8 p.m. –  The Portland Yoga Project is putting on a class called “Liberated Breath: A Juneteenth Yoga Experience” that seeks to reflect on the holiday through yoga. The class is free for BIPOC community members and is sponsored by the Portland Public Library. 7 Bedford St., Portland, allevents.in

Comments are not available on this story.

Send questions/comments to the editors.

Member Log In

Please enter your username and password below. Already a subscriber but don't have one? Click here .

Not a subscriber? Click here to see your options

Election latest: Gove 'almost lost for words' over latest betting allegations - as party deletes Labour attack ad

Multiple Conservative Party candidates are facing an investigation from the Gambling Commission. Minister Michael Gove tells Sky's Beth Rigby the allegations have left him "almost lost for words". Listen to the latest edition of Politics At Jack And Sam's as you scroll.

Thursday 20 June 2024 15:15, UK

• General Election 2024
• Bulletin: The main news from the campaign trail today
• Tories delete advert warning people not to 'bet' on Labour
• Candidate facing gambling probe married to Tory campaign director
• Minister Gove 'almost lost for words' over allegations
• Catch-up: What we know about Conservative betting claims
• Live reporting by Samuel Osborne and (earlier)  Tim Baker
• Sam Coates: This is a big, big, big problem for the Conservatives
• Rob Powell: Betting scandal could punch Tories' electoral bruise

Election essentials

• Manifesto pledges:  Conservatives | Greens | Labour | Lib Dems | Plaid Cymru | Reform | SNP | Sinn Fein | Workers Party
• Trackers:  Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage:  Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts:  Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more:  Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

Tonight the leaders of the four biggest political parties in the UK will sit down for 30 minutes each to answer questions from a live studio audience on the BBC's Question Time Leaders' Special.

The show will start at 8pm, and we'll have live updates and analysis from our chief political correspondent  Jon Craig  throughout.

The Liberal Democrats' leader Sir Ed Davey will appear first, followed by the SNP's John Swinney, then it will be Sir Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

We've just heard from Nigel Farage regarding the betting allegations surrounding the Tory party.

Laura Saunders, the Conservative candidate for Bristol North West, is being looked into by the Gambling Commission.

She has worked for the party since 2015 and is married to the Conservative Party's director of campaigns, Tony Lee.

Last week, Rishi Sunak's close parliamentary aideCraig Williams, the Tory candidate in Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr, was revealed to have placed a bet on a July election date three days before it was announced.

And the prime minister's close protection officer has been arrested and suspended over alleged bets about the timing of the election.

Reform leader Mr Farage says the developments are making the Tories look "more corrupt than even its worst critics could have imagined".

"This is another shocking scandal," he added.

Mr Farage has been campaigning in Frodsham today, including a visit to a clay pigeon shooting club.

Rumours around people potentially placing bets on the date of the general election being called are continuing to swirl.

Labour campaign sources are now saying they noticed the odds on a July election narrowing the day before Rishi Sunak made his announcement.

While there had been sporadic reports about the PM calling an election for July, many people thought he would be more likely to go to the polls in the autumn to allow for the economy to recover further.

Our live poll tracker collates the results of opinion surveys carried out by all the main polling organisations - and allows you to see how the political parties are performing in the run-up to the general election.

It currently shows a drop in support in recent days for Labour and the Tories - with a jump for Reform and the Liberal Democrats.

Read more about the tracker here .

Ahead of a busy evening to come for the Politics Hub - here is what has happened so far today to get you up to speed.

The political news agenda has been dominated by the betting allegations against Conservative candidates.

Here are the main things you need to know:

• The Gambling Commission has said it's considering launching an investigation into a " small number of people" ;
• Laura Saunders is the second Conservative candidate to trigger scrutiny from the watchdog;
• Ms Saunders is married to Tony Lee - the Conservative director of campaigns - with reports that he as well faces a probe;
• Mr Lee went on leave from CCHQ yesterday, as the story about Ms Saunders broke;
• Housing Secretary Michael Gove said he was "almost speechless" following the allegations;
• Labour and the Lib Dems  are calling for the candidates to be suspended from the party.
• Coming up this evening , there is a BBC Question Time leaders special;
• Rishi Sunak, Sir Keir Starmer, Sir Ed Davey and John Swinney are all taking part, with Fiona Bruce hosting;
• The leaders will have 30 minutes each to answer questions from the audience and we'll have live updates here from 8pm .
• Before that, from 7pm  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge will feature a full-length interview with Green Party leader  Adrian Ramsay;
• It is the latest in a series of interrogations - with all party chiefs set to feature over the last few weeks of the campaign.

On this morning's Politics At Jack And Sam's, the pair discussed the fact that Conservatives will be hosting party donors at a summer ball tonight - following the dire polling in recent days.

👉 Tap here to follow Politics at Jack and Sam's wherever you get your podcasts 👈  

By Tomos Evans , Wales reporter 

The number of patient pathways waiting to start treatment in Wales has hit a record high.

It's the third month in a row that the total number of pathways – which can include the same patient if undergoing multiple treatment plans – has increased.

The total as of April this year stands at 755,031, new figures show.

The Welsh government says they were a "disappointing set" of performance figures. 

"We still have a long way to go to reduce long waits which built up during the pandemic," a spokesperson said. 

"But it should be noted that these figures may have been affected by a reduction in activity during the Easter holiday period in early April."

Sky political editor Beth Rigby  has been speaking to Housing Secretary Michael Gove.

Just before their interview began, the BBC reported that Tony Lee, the director of campaigns for the Conservative Party, was also facing a Gambling Commission investigation.

In response, Mr Gove said he was "almost lost for words".

While he said we have to wait for the investigations to conclude, he added: "You shouldn't be using inside information to try to make a few hundred quid on the side.

"That is just not acceptable."

It's "terrible", he said - adding he was "disappointed" as the "future of this election really matters to me and my children".

It's been a blistering few hours in political news after more allegations of betting by a Conservative candidate surfaced.

So here is a quick summary of what we know.

Craig Williams, a close parliamentary aide of Rishi Sunak, admitted to placing a "flutter" on the date of the election "weeks ago".

This is reported to have happened just before the prime minister surprised many by calling a vote for 4 July, with Mr Williams said to have staked a £100.

The Conservative Party said it was a personal matter.

Mr Williams is the party's candidate for Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr.

Read more and see the full list of candidates for the seat here:

It emerged that one of Mr Sunak's close protection police officers had been arrested over alleged bets on the timing of the election.

Sky News understands several bets were placed, with at least one of them being a three-figure sum.

Read more on this story here:

It emerged overnight that Laura Saunders, the Tory candidate for Bristol North West, is facing an investigation by the Gambling Commission.

Ms Saunders is married to Tony Lee, who is the party's director of campaigns.

The Gambling Commission has not commented on individual cases.

But it said today that "currently the commission is investigating the possibility of offences concerning the date of the election".

It added: "This is an ongoing investigation, and the commission cannot provide any further details at this time."

The Conservative Party said they had been contacted by the commission about a "small number" of individuals.

Read more and see the full list of candidates for Bristol North West here:

As expected, the Bank of England has held interest rates at 5.25% for the seventh time in a row.

The Monetary Policy Committee's vote in favour of maintaining the 16-year high in rates had been widely expected by economists and financial markets.

You can follow dedicated updates in our Money blog here:

In the past few minutes, the Conservative Party X account has deleted an advert uploaded yesterday.

The video, which features scenes from a roulette wheel, bears the slogan: "If you bet on Labour, you can never win."

It was posted before the revelations about one of Rishi Sunak's protection officers being arrested over alleged political bets.

It also predated claims about Laura Saunders and her husband Tony Lee.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free