River Ribble

River Ribble

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WATERWAYS LICENCES

Many waterways in England and Wales require a licence to paddle. Check the licence section below to see if this is one. Save money on your licence and secure paddling insurance by joining British Canoeing. Use our easy step RapidJoin process. Open the slider to join.

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River Licensing Information

Licence Required?

No licence required

Grade: 1-5

There’s a real range of paddling available on the River Ribble. Take note of the section from Helwith Bridge to Settle. This is the most changeable stretch, with levels ranging from Grade 3 to Grade 5+ in high waters. The rest of the River Ribble is generally Grade 2-3. 

The River Ribble is a well-known river in the North of England which lends its name to parliamentary constituencies and government boroughs.

It begins close to the stunning Ribblehead Viaduct, flowing westwards for 75 miles until it reaches the Irish Sea at Lytham.

As well as ample history, the river is a popular one for river runners and those looking to practice white water skills. River grades range from 1-5 and certain stretches are flat making it perfect for exploring.

Paddlers must be aware of the two mandatory portages at Stainforth Force and Settle Weir.

History and the River Ribble

The river can be traced back as far 2,500 BCE, as over the years there have been many finds relating to civilisation along the side of the river.

As well as Neolithic and Saxon finds, one of the most impressive was a hoard of Viking silver. Called the Cuerdale Hoard, it was one of the largest finds of its kind outside of Russia.