Users of this stretch of river should be aware that there are limited landing opportunities (save for an emergency) with no landing on the north bank as it is almost all private land. Please be respectful of all fishermen and landowners you meet and remember – the quieter you are, the more wildlife you’ll see.

This trail is part of the upper River Waveney which is a natural river that flows from Lopham Fenn just west of Diss to Great Yarmouth on the coast. It is suitable for most paddle craft including stand up paddle boards. The river is generally very clear, which means paddlers will often see shoals of fish, including Rudd, Perch, and Tench, navigating the shallows. Otters do live on the river but are rarely spotted.

In the summer months, cattle are grazed down to the water’s edge across much of the route. Kingfishers, with their vivid colours, nest along the river but are easily scared, so a quiet and observant approach might be needed to see them. Herons are often spotted on the river or flying overhead.

It has been suggested that the River Waveney is one of the southernmost valleys created in the last ice age, which could explain the presence of the sand and shingle quarry seen on the trail. For paddlers wishing to spend more time in the area, the Outney Meadow Camping & Caravan Park, with immediate access to the river, is ideally situated.

• Waveney Valley Canoe Club: www.waveneyvalleycanoeclub.org.uk
• Outney Meadow Caravan Park: www.outneymeadow.co.uk
• Waveney Valley Trust: www.riverwaveneytrust.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqNJXoN51Cw