River Itchen~ Woolston to Woodmill

Woolston SU 435 114 GB
Woodmill SU 439 151 GB


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The River Itchen is river of two halves. The lower river, navigable to any craft, is home to a combination of pleasure craft and industry, mostly in decay. It is approximately three miles from Woolston to Woodmill. The river provides two hours of sheltered paddling, but there are other more attractive places to paddle.

Paddling from Woolston on the lower eastern bank, the small hard is surrounded by ship yards and gravel works, all dominated by the arch of the Itchen Bridge. Heading upstream, you pass several small marinas and the rusting remains of many wharves. On your left is St Mary's Stadium, home to Southampton Football Club. Once up to the Northam Bridge, the river starts to change it's appearance. Immediately before it, on the right bank, are enormous piles of waste metal, gathered to be recycled. The road bridge prevents most craft from proceeding further, but the kayak comes into it's element. After the rail bridge, you arrive in the area of St Denys. On your right is a convenient grassy bank - ideal for a leg stretch. The river takes on the appearance of being comfortably inland, with parks and a promenade. Further on, the river winds it's way to the head of navigation at Woodmill Tide Mill. There is a kayak shop and outdoor centre here and another handy spot to get out, or launch from with a car park. Arrival at high water brings a pleasant reedy river atmosphere. At other states of the tide, the weir at the mill is a popular play spot for kayakers.

Access / Put-ins:

Woolston: Sheltered small hard, access all states of tide. Limited on street parking.

Woodmill: Access near high water at side of mill, next to car park.

Nature:

In the upper reaches, there is much wildfowl. It is also reported that some seals frequent the river.

History:

Erm....Not much that you can relate to.

Hazards:

Submerged objects in the lower half of the river. Many hulks left abandoned, with other wrecks left attached to them.