The Great River Ouse, one of England’s longest rivers, flows for about 143 miles (230 km) from its source in Northamptonshire through Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Norfolk before reaching the Wash on the North Sea coast. It’s a river of great historical significance and natural beauty, shaped by its many uses over the centuries, from navigation and trade to agriculture and recreation.
Historical Significance:
The history of the Great Ouse is deeply entwined with the development of the surrounding regions. During the Roman period, the river was likely used for transportation, and in medieval times, it played a key role in connecting inland towns with the sea. By the 17th century, the river became an important waterway for trade, particularly for agricultural goods from the fertile lands of East Anglia.
In the late 1600s, engineer Cornelius Vermuyden led extensive drainage projects in the Fens, altering parts of the Ouse to improve flood control and navigation. The river was also vital in the industrial period, carrying goods like coal, grain, and timber. Today, while its commercial importance has diminished, it remains popular for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Navigation and Locks:
The Great Ouse is fully navigable from Bedford to Denver, with about 17 locks along this stretch to manage water levels and allow boats to travel upstream and downstream. Some of the locks, such as Cardington Lock and St Ives Lock, are set in picturesque surroundings, offering opportunities for scenic boat trips and walks. The locks vary in size and design, with most managed by the Environment Agency to ensure smooth navigation for pleasure craft.
Connections to Other Rivers and Canals:
The Great Ouse connects to several other waterways, making it an integral part of England’s inland waterway network:
- River Cam: One of its most famous tributaries, flowing through the historic city of Cambridge.
- Old West River: Another major tributary, which joins the Great Ouse near Ely, creating a network of navigable waterways.
- Fenland Waterways: From Denver, the Great Ouse links to the Middle Level Navigations, providing a route to the River Nene and onwards to the Grand Union Canal, offering access to London and the Midlands.
- River Lark and River Little Ouse: These tributaries connect with the main river and provide further navigation options through the Fens.
Interesting Features:
- Ely Cathedral: One of the most iconic landmarks along the river’s course, Ely Cathedral, known as the “Ship of the Fens,” dominates the flat landscape, its towers visible for miles. The river passes through the historic town of Ely, which offers mooring spots for boaters to explore this ancient city.
- The Fens: As the river passes through the flat and fertile Fenlands, it provides unique landscapes, with expansive wetlands that are home to a wide variety of bird species, making it popular for nature enthusiasts.
- St Ives: The charming market town of St Ives is another highlight along the river, with its historic Chapel Bridge—one of only four bridges in England to have a chapel built into it. The river adds a tranquil backdrop to the town’s medieval architecture.
- Bedford: The Great Ouse reaches its inland navigation limit at Bedford, a vibrant town with riverside parks, museums, and cultural events. The embankment here is a hub for local festivals, regattas, and boating activities.
The Great Ouse is not just a vital watercourse but a ribbon of history, nature, and recreation, offering boaters and visitors alike a serene journey through some of England’s most captivating countryside and historic towns.