River Trent stretches 280 kilometres through the English midlands, rising from Staffordshire. From that point on, the river flows southeastward and northeastward. It goes northward for the next 168 miles (or 270 kilometres). If you’re interested in one of the most iconic rivers in the country, here are some interesting facts about this body of water.
One of the Major Rivers
Among the most commonly known River Trent facts is that the River Trent is one of the major rivers in the UK, flowing through the market town of Newark, the rural Trent Vale, and the busy city of Nottingham.
Ideal for Long Walks
If you love long strolls along the river banks, the Trent Valley offers a long-distance walking route worth exploring. Expect to see mostly farmland with watermills, villages, churches, and old ferry crossings. If you love quaint European towns, add this route to your list.
Let’s You Enjoy Watersports
Visit the National Watersports Centre near Nottingham. Try sailing, waterskiing, rowing, canoeing, and more. The British Canoe Union’s base is here, so if you’ve always wanted to try that sport, this is an excellent sport for it.
Go Boating on the River
The River Trent is a broad, fast-flowing river that is a far cry from the tranquil canals. For skilled, experienced boaters, though, the tidal reaches below Cromwell Lock offer a challenge. However, check the tide times if you’re making time for that in your trip. Be sure to get information on lock opening times, too, before going.
Trent Comes from a Celtic Word
Trent is a Celtic word that means “strongly flooding,” an apt name since the river tends to flood. However, some suggest that Trent combines two Celtic words, tros and hynt, which mean over and way.
The River Flows Northward
The River Trent flows in several directions. However, after it passes through Nottingham, the river flows northward. It is the only river in Britain that does so.
The Largest Tidal Bore
The River Trent has the third largest tidal bore in Britain, known as the Trent Aegir or Trent Bore. Also called a surge, a tidal bore is a strong tide that pushes the river against the current. A common cause of a tidal bore is changing depth.
Spans Seven Cities
The River Trent goes through the most well-known river trade routes in the UK’s history. These cities and towns include Stone, Nottingham, Stoke-on-Trent, Newark-on-Trent, Gainsborough, Rugeley, and Burton upon Trent. Following this route allows you to explore these charming towns and the lovely scenery they offer.
Flows Through Six Counties
Aside from the cities, the river stretches through six counties, including Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, and Nottinghamshire.
River Has Over 80 Bridges Crossing It
There are 80 bridges crossing over the River Trent, indicating the river’s length. Many of the famous bridges include the medieval bridge Swarkestone Bridge which is located six miles south of Derby. The nearly mile-long bridge remains the longest stone bridge in the UK.
Many Have Swam the River
Swimming in the River Trent can be dangerous if you aren’t prepared. However, many brave, athletic souls have done it as a test of their physical mettle. One of the most famous among them is Tom Milner. He succeeded in swimming the 139 miles of the river, taking over nine days to complete the journey.
Only One Toll Bridge
While the River Trent has 80 bridges crossing it, you might be surprised that there is only one toll bridge over the river. It’s the Dunham Toll bridge and carries the A57 over the river between the Dunham-on-Trent and Newton-on-Trent villages. It’s the crossing between Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.
Traces Back Origins to the Ice Age
The River Trent has been around far longer than you might think. It’s been there since the Ice Age, better known to many as the Pleistocene epoch. The mass stagnation of ice is believed to be why the river eventually flowed north.
Not Every Boat Can Do It
The River Trent can be a boater’s dream. However, make sure to check the restrictions and limitations on vessel sizes. Not all boats can travel along the River Trent. That’s because there are 11 locks along the river, which affects the size of the boats. Not every boat will fit, so check the numbers to know your boat won’t run into any problems.
Explore the Marinas
There are excellent marinas along the River Trent route. Combining rural bliss and urban sights makes the river incredibly valuable. You have endless activities to enjoy in the area. Cruise along the river or find a marina and dock. That should give you plenty of time to enjoy whichever area suits you. Have fun exploring the marinas nearby, so you can park your boat, take in the scenery, and savour every minute.
