Is ogmore river estuary safe for kayaking?

Answer 1

The Ogmore can be paddled from as far up as the Ogmore vale. It's a wonderful river for beginners and beyond with lots of exciting little drops along its length. There are two weirs to look out for if in doubt walk around them (portage). In higher flows both wiers have stoppers worthy of respect. Once passed the Dipping Bridge (near turn off for Merthyr Mawr) things calm down to touring type water (flat). There is a confluence with the Ewenny not far from the Ogmore castle. Tides can be strong here and in the actual mouth of the estuary an incoming tide can kick up big surf. The rip as the river meets the sea is also worthy of respect. In short beginners should have a qualified river leader with them before tackling the Ogmore. That said it's a wonderful river. From the dipping bridge up an access agreement is in place which means no matter how good conditions are one should not paddle it during the fishing season.