How to explore Britain and Ireland’s most beautiful rivers on foot, bike or boat: readers’ travel tips

From Ilkley, the path naturally flows towards an ancient stone bridge, a testament to medieval engineering and a gateway to the next leg of the journey. Continuing along the riverbank, the route leads to the charming village of Addingham. Here, the tranquil beauty of the Wharfe is punctuated by the Low Mill weir, an historic structure that once powered local industry and now adds to the area’s rustic appeal. Addingham itself boasts views towards Castleberg fort, an intriguing archaeological site believed to date back to the late Bronze Age or early Iron Age. Such prehistoric fortifications speak to the long-standing human interaction with this landscape, from early settlements to later Roman and medieval developments. The journey culminates at the splendid remains of Bolton Abbey, a 12th-century Augustinian monastery nestled within magnificent woodland and expansive parkland. Founded around 1154, the Priory of St Mary and St Cuthbert at Bolton was once a thriving monastic community before its dissolution in 1539. Today, its dramatic ruins, especially the nave of the priory church which remains in use, stand as an enduring symbol of spiritual and architectural grandeur, harmoniously integrated into the natural beauty of the Wharfedale valley. The estate, now overseen by the Duke of Devonshire, provides an immersive experience into both natural splendour and profound history, offering countless walking opportunities, including the famous Strid, a narrow, treacherous section of the river. This entire stretch of the Wharfe, from the spa town of Ilkley to the monastic serenity of Bolton Abbey, perfectly encapsulates the diverse appeal of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a protected landscape vital for its geology, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

A week cruising along the River Bure in Norfolk from Acle to Coltishall is an unforgettable experience, as John attests. This journey delves deep into the heart of the Norfolk Broads National Park, a unique landscape of shallow lakes and labyrinthine waterways, largely man-made, resulting from medieval peat diggings that subsequently flooded. The statutory 5mph speed limit imposed on the Broads is not merely a regulation but an invitation to slow down, to embrace the unhurried pace of life, and to fully immerse oneself in the ever-changing tapestry of landscape and wildlife that unfolds. This gentle speed is crucial for environmental protection, preventing bank erosion and minimising disturbance to the fragile ecosystems and abundant birdlife.

The River Bure, one of the Broads’ principal rivers, offers a rich cruising experience. Numerous stopping places provide convenient access to a wealth of attractions. These include vital nature reserves, where conservationists work tirelessly to protect rare species like the elusive otter, the vibrant kingfisher, and the majestic marsh harrier, all thriving amidst the extensive reed beds and grazing marshes. Quintessentially English villages dot the riverside, such as the picturesque Belaugh, with its traditional architecture and tranquil atmosphere, offering glimpses into rural Norfolk life. Further along, the romantic ruins of St Benet’s Abbey stand in majestic isolation, a unique historical site that was the only monastic institution in England to escape direct dissolution by Henry VIII, instead being gifted to the Bishop of Norwich. Its iconic gatehouse and wind pump are evocative symbols of the Broads’ rich past.

The journey is also punctuated by inviting riverside pubs, serving as vital community hubs and welcoming havens for weary travellers, offering local ales and hearty fare. No cruise along the Bure would be complete without a visit to "the world’s largest village store," Roys of Wroxham. This iconic institution, steeped in local history, is an essential port of call for restocking supplies, offering everything from groceries to clothing and homewares. Wroxham itself, often dubbed the "Capital of the Broads," is a bustling centre for boating and tourism. The final, atmospheric stretch to Coltishall, with its charming cafes and shops, provides a gentle winding conclusion to the river journey. Boats, available for hire from several locations, are remarkably easy to handle, requiring no prior experience, making this a truly accessible adventure for all. The Broads, a haven of biodiversity and a tranquil escape, continues to enchant with its unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

For a peaceful walk surprisingly close to Coventry city centre, Deborah Dixon recommends the Sowe Valley Footpath. This 8½-mile riverside trail offers an invigorating escape, tracing the meandering course of the River Sowe, a significant tributary of the larger River Avon. The path gracefully weaves through a diverse array of landscapes, transitioning seamlessly from pockets of ancient woodland to tranquil waterways and subtle urban green spaces. Beginning at Hawkesbury Junction, a historically rich nexus where the Coventry Canal meets the Oxford Canal, the footpath follows the river downstream to Whitley Grove Wood. Hawkesbury Junction itself is a marvel of industrial heritage, once a bustling hub for canal traffic, its impressive cast-iron bridge and lock cottages harking back to a bygone era of inland navigation.

Along the Sowe Valley Footpath, keen observers are rewarded with a rich tapestry of urban wildlife. Herons, with their stately presence, can often be seen patiently fishing in the shallows, while moorhens dart amongst the reeds. The river’s banks and surrounding habitats also support a variety of other species, including mallards, coots, and various small birds. On quieter stretches, one might even catch a fleeting glimpse of a kingfisher, a jewel-like flash of blue and orange. What Deborah particularly cherishes about this route is its powerful demonstration of how nature can flourish in unexpected places. In an increasingly urbanised world, the Sowe Valley Footpath stands as a vital green corridor, providing essential habitats for wildlife and offering city dwellers accessible opportunities for recreation and connection with the natural environment. It underscores the importance of protecting and enhancing such urban ecosystems, which contribute significantly to both biodiversity and human well-being, proving that wild beauty is never far from the city’s pulse.

Edinburgh’s sublime Water of Leith offers a tranquil and historically rich escape through the heart of Scotland’s capital. The Water of Leith Walkway, a meticulously maintained 13-mile riverside journey, extends from the pastoral village of Balerno, in the Pentland Hills, all the way to the bustling port of Leith, where the river finally meets the Firth of Forth. This invaluable pathway is lovingly cared for by the Water of Leith Conservation Trust, a dedicated organisation that, with the help of volunteers, undertakes conservation work, environmental education, and maintains the path for public enjoyment. The Water of Leith itself has played a pivotal role in Edinburgh’s development, historically powering numerous mills and industries, its banks once lined with tanneries, breweries, and paper mills.

A highly recommended introduction to this urban oasis, as suggested by Keith Cumming, is the two-mile walk from Roseburn, approximately a mile west of Princes Street, downstream to the vibrant neighbourhood of Stockbridge. This pleasant stroll typically takes around 45 minutes and is replete with fascinating sights and natural beauty. The path winds through the enchanting Dean Village, a picturesque former milling village that feels a world away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Its dramatic architecture, with multi-storey tenements clinging to the steep riverbanks and old mill buildings, creates a unique, almost fairytale-like atmosphere. Further along, walkers encounter St Bernard’s Well, an exquisite neoclassical temple built over a mineral spring in 1789. This architectural gem, designed by Alexander Nasmyth, was once a popular spa destination, and its distinctive design adds a touch of classical elegance to the riverside path. For those with a keen eye and a stroke of luck, the Water of Leith offers glimpses of its elusive wildlife, including the possibility of spotting a vibrant kingfisher, a bird whose presence is a testament to the river’s improving ecological health. Other wildlife commonly observed includes dippers, grey wagtails, and even the occasional otter, highlighting the river’s role as a vital ecological corridor within the urban fabric of Edinburgh. This walk offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty, architectural heritage, and unexpected wildlife encounters, making it a true urban gem.

Alex’s adventurous spirit led him to create his own long-distance walks using the versatile Ordnance Survey app, a modern tool that empowers hikers to explore new landscapes. His favourite undertaking was a remarkable five-day journey, meticulously following the entire 65-mile course of the River Welland from its source to the sea. This epic walk began at Sibbertoft, a tranquil village nestled near Market Harborough in Leicestershire, amidst the quintessential rolling agricultural landscapes of the English Midlands. The initial stages of the route traced the historic border between Rutland and Northamptonshire, offering panoramic views of unspoiled countryside. A significant landmark along this stretch was Rockingham Castle, a magnificent former royal fortress near Corby. Dating back to William the Conqueror’s time, this Norman stronghold, still a family home, boasts a rich history spanning over 900 years, offering a glimpse into England’s tumultuous past.

The journey continued through Stamford, a town renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and medieval street plan, often cited as one of England’s most beautiful stone towns. Here, the Welland flows gracefully through the heart of the town, contributing to its picturesque charm. Further on, the route passed through Helpston, the birthplace of John Clare, the "peasant poet" of the 19th century. Clare’s profound connection to the natural world and the rural landscapes of Northamptonshire, often threatened by enclosure, imbues this part of the journey with deep literary significance. As Alex ventured further east, the landscape underwent a dramatic transformation, giving way to the unique, expansive vistas of the Fens. This low-lying, intensively farmed region, largely reclaimed from marshland through centuries of drainage, presented a stark contrast to the earlier rolling hills. Here, the journey included a stop at the hauntingly beautiful ruined medieval abbey at Crowland, famous for its unique triangular bridge, the Trinity Bridge, a marvel of 14th-century engineering. The route then led to the elegant canal-side town of Spalding, often referred to as the "Flower Capital of England" due to its historical association with the bulb industry. Its Dutch-influenced architecture and network of waterways create a distinctive character. The final day of the walk was marked by the gradual, majestic appearance of the Boston Stump, the iconic tower of St Botolph’s Church in Boston. This magnificent medieval parish church, one of the tallest in England, served as a beacon for sailors and a powerful symbol of the journey’s nearing conclusion as Alex walked towards the point where the River Welland finally embraced the sea, emptying into The Wash. This journey offered a profound sense of connection to England’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and literary heritage.

Cruising down the Shannon, Ireland’s ‘Mississippi Delta’, offers a truly unique and expansive experience, as Eve vividly recounts. Shannon Harbour, a historically significant location in the Irish Midlands, marks the precise confluence where the Grand Canal, an engineering marvel of the 18th century, elegantly merges with Ireland’s longest and most iconic river, the Shannon. As children, Eve and her companions frequently explored the canal’s towpaths, often pausing at McIntyre’s Pub, a cherished local institution, for what they affectionately termed "Irish tapas" – a bag of Tayto crisps, a simple yet potent symbol of local culture and hospitality. This pub, with its warm, welcoming atmosphere, remains a cornerstone of the community, offering a genuine taste of rural Irish life.

However, the ultimate indulgence was when her father’s childhood friend would take them on his boat, venturing from the narrow confines of Shannon Harbour onto the grand expanse of the River Shannon proper. This transition, as Eve describes, marks an utterly transformative shift in the landscape and sensory experience. On a warm, clear day, the vastness of the river, with its wide, flat horizons and often misty, atmospheric quality, evokes a startling resemblance to the American South, earning it the affectionate moniker of Ireland’s "Mississippi Delta." The sheer scale of the water, stretching out seemingly endlessly, creates a profound sense of freedom and adventure, a departure from the intimate charm of rural Ireland. Conversely, on a wet or misty day, the river can become so broad and shrouded that the opposite bank vanishes from sight, adding an element of dramatic, wild beauty and isolation. Despite the capricious nature of the Irish weather, the comforting promise of McIntyre’s Pub awaiting their return, whatever the conditions, provided a perfect anchor to these unforgettable riverine adventures. The Shannon, a lifeblood of Ireland, is not just a geographical feature but a deep wellspring of cultural identity, history, and profound natural beauty, offering an immersive journey through the heart of the Emerald Isle.

North Yorkshire’s River Ouse takes you on a gorgeous and historically rich walk through the ancient city of York and its surrounding areas, as Mary details. The journey can begin by crossing the modern Scarborough Bridge, a striking pedestrian and cycle bridge that offers excellent views of the city skyline and the river itself, a dynamic blend of contemporary infrastructure and historical backdrop. From there, walkers can stroll along the Dame Judi Dench Walk, a delightful riverside promenade named after the renowned actress who has strong ties to the city. This path meanders past some of York’s most treasured historical sites within the tranquil Museum Gardens. Here, layers of history unfold, from the imposing Roman and medieval ruins, including the Multangular Tower – a key surviving section of the Roman fortress of Eboracum – and the remnants of St Mary’s Abbey, a once-powerful Benedictine monastery. The gardens themselves are a verdant oasis, offering a serene counterpoint to the city’s bustling streets.

A particular highlight along the riverside is The Perky Peacock cafe, uniquely situated within a medieval tower. This charming establishment offers refreshments in a setting steeped in history, blending ancient architecture with modern comfort and providing a perfect vantage point for watching the river flow by. Continuing along the Ouse, the path leads to Rowntree Park, a beautiful Edwardian park established by the Rowntree family for their factory workers, offering extensive green spaces, a lake, and recreational facilities. The walk then progresses to the elegant Millennium Bridge, a striking modern pedestrian bridge that gracefully spans the river. While the walk offers unparalleled historical insights and scenic beauty, Mary wisely advises caution regarding the practicalities: "Just beware of the cobbles and some step-only access along the way." These features, while adding to the historic charm, can pose challenges for accessibility, making comfortable footwear essential. The River Ouse, therefore, serves not only as a scenic route but as a dynamic artery through York’s living history, connecting its Roman origins, medieval grandeur, and vibrant contemporary life.

The River Tees, originating in the high Pennine moors, carves a dramatic path through the landscape of County Durham, culminating in a series of spectacular waterfalls that captivated Hannah S. The river’s journey across the exposed moorland is punctuated by the powerful cascade of High Force waterfall, one of England’s most impressive natural spectacles. Here, the river plunges 21 metres over a dolerite rock known as the Whin Sill, creating a thunderous roar and a dramatic display of nature’s raw power. Further downstream, the river continues its spirited descent, bubbling over the smaller yet equally captivating Low Force. This section, characterised by its rapids and rocky outcrops, provides a different, more intimate experience of the river’s energy.

The suggested starting point for exploring this area is Bowlees, where the local visitor centre offers facilities and information. From Bowlees, walkers can cross the Tees at Low Force via the historic Wynch suspension bridge. This remarkable structure, built in the 1830s, holds significant historical importance as it replaced Britain’s very first suspension bridge, originally constructed by lead miners in 1741. This engineering feat provided a crucial link for the mining communities of the era. The bridge at Low Force is an excellent vantage point to pause and observe the exhilarating sight of kayakers expertly navigating the challenging rapids, a testament to the river’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Continuing upstream through the rugged moorland, the path leads towards the unmistakable roar of High Force, its presence growing more dominant with every step. The surrounding landscape, part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is characterised by its distinctive moorland, rich in geology and home to unique flora and fauna adapted to the upland environment. After a day immersed in fresh air and breathtaking scenery, the experience is perfectly rounded off with a well-deserved treat: cake at the Bowlees visitor centre, offering a blissful conclusion to a memorable adventure. This section of the River Tees perfectly encapsulates the wild beauty and industrial heritage of the North Pennines.

The winning tip comes from Peter, who advocates following the River Ouse – one of five distinct British rivers bearing this name – to the sea, describing it as "great fun" whether on foot or by bike. His journey typically commences near Horsham in West Sussex, a market town situated in the High Weald, a landscape of ancient woodlands and rolling hills. From here, Peter tracks the Ouse Valley Way, a dedicated long-distance path spanning approximately 42 miles. This comprehensive route guides adventurers through the stunning landscapes of the South Downs National Park, a protected area renowned for its dramatic chalk hills, verdant river valleys, and rich biodiversity. The path itself offers a diverse terrain, traversing rolling fields, winding through tranquil woodland paths, and offering expansive views across the national park.

A highlight along this route is the opportunity to pause and explore the exquisite Nymans, an extraordinary garden owned by the National Trust. This historic estate boasts a magnificent collection of rare and exotic plants, set amidst the evocative ruins of a Gothic-revival manor house, creating a romantic and visually stunning experience. Further along, the river walk passes under a truly impressive engineering marvel: a 37-arch Victorian railway viaduct near Balcombe. This magnificent structure, a testament to 19th-century railway ambition, forms a dramatic backdrop to the natural beauty of the river valley. The journey then leads to the historic county town of Lewes in East Sussex, a vibrant hub dominated by its Norman castle and characterised by its independent shops and rich cultural heritage. Here, a well-deserved break at the John Harvey Tavern is highly recommended. This traditional riverside pub, intrinsically linked to the famous Harvey’s Brewery, offers a taste of local heritage and a perfect spot to watch the Ouse waters gently flow past. The final segment of the journey is an easy, flat stretch of riverside walking, where the landscape gradually opens up as the coast comes into sight, leading ultimately to the port town of Newhaven. This concluding section offers a sense of accomplishment and a final appreciation for the river’s journey from the pastoral heart of Sussex to the open sea, truly showcasing the diverse beauty and history encapsulated by the Ouse Valley Way.