Houghton Mill to St Ives Paddle Trail

2 hours

Duration

5.5 miles

Distance

Out and Back

Easy to Moderate

Difficulty

PE28 2AZ

Start Postcode

PE28 2AZ

End Postcode

A. Launch your paddle craft from the portage which is located through the mill and set off downstream.

B. Follow the River Great Ouse and paddle downstream. You will pass two weirs on your left. Pass to the left of Battcock's lsland in the middle of the river. Pass another weir on your left and St James' church on your right before arriving at Hemingford Lock.

C. You can use the slipway to bypass Hemingford Lock. Continue downstream. The river divides at St Ives which creates a large island in the river. Holt Island is now a nature reserve. Paddle around Holt Island and proceed back upstream to Houghton Mill.

D. Return upstream to Houghton Mill. Relax and enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at the riverside café

Accessibility

Launch your paddle craft from the portage which is located just off the car park its slightly uneven so care is needed.

Discover More

Enjoy a couple of hours paddling through picturesque meadows, from Houghton Mill to the historic town of St Ives (and back again)

Licence Information

The waterways in this trail are managed by the Environment Agency, and it is a requirement for paddlers to hold a licence. Paddle UK’s On The Water membership includes an annual licence for here as well as other waterways.

When paddling, have your membership card with you as proof of licence; otherwise, you could face a fine. Get your digital membership card straight away with your licence and liability insurance included from www.paddleuk.org.uk.

JOIN PADDLE UK

Safety Information

We want you to have fun and a safe paddle! Here are some helpful tips to ensure you paddle responsibly and stay safe on your journey. Please take a moment to review these important safety tips:

– Always wear a correctly sized buoyancy aid

– Carry a mobile phone – in a waterproof case

– Tell Someone Where You’re Going

– Check the weather and conditions

– Know your limits

Check out some useful blogs and e-learnings on how to keep safe

Environment

Wherever and however you paddle, our Paddlers’ Code helps to ensure we can all enjoy and share the water safely and protect our precious environment.

Don’t get sick doing what you love. We know water quality is a concern for many paddlers. Click here for some simple advice on water quality and how to protect yourself.

Get informed, stay safe and make good decisions by checking the National Storm Overflow Map

Paddlers can play a vital role in keeping our waters free of harmful non-native species. It is crucial you Check, Clean and Dry you boat and equipment to prevent the spread. Click here for more information on Invasive Non-Native Species.

For more environmental advice and guidance, see our Blue Space Blogs section on the Paddle UK website.