Abstract: The allowed transformations of the variable coefficient Gordoa-Pickering (VCGP) equation with six arbitrary functions are obtained.These transformations keep the form of the equation invariant but possibly change the arbitrary coefficients.Based on the allowed transformations,two types of Lie point symmetry groups are found.Finally,symmetry reductions and group invariant solutions of the VCGP equation are also considered.

Key words: variable coefficient Gordoa-Pickering equation, allowed transformations, symmetry group, group invariant solutions