Information for boaters - River Stour

The River Stour forms the boundary between the counties of Suffolk and Essex, before flowing in the Stour estuary near Maninningtree. A public right of navigation exists between Brundon Mill just north of Sudbury and Cattawade, near Manningtree. Most of the historic lock structures have disappeared and it now has greater physical and ecological diversity, with generally shallower water for shallow draft non-motorised craft.

You can use a powered boat on the 4km stretch from Ballingdon bridge to Henny Street Weir only. The rest of the river is quite shallow. You can still navigate it but you will need a boat with a shallow draft such as a canoe or rowing boat. There is a speed limit of 4mph on the whole river.

River Inspectors for Ely Ouse and Stour: 07741 614 288

You can see the latest navigation notices on the River Stour Mapping tool.

If you want to organise an event on the River Stour, read the River Stour event organiser guidance (PDF, 92.3 KB, 2 pages). You can apply for an event using the Anglian Waterways event form.

To request a speed exemption, read the River Stour speed exemption guidance (PDF, 90.9 KB, 2 pages). You can apply for a speed exemption using the Anglian Waterway speed exemption form.

You must not operate the locks on the River Stour yourself.

If you want to pass through any of the locks you should contact the River Stour Trust.

Public slipways and ramps are available for use on the River Stour at:

Other canoe launch and landing sites are available. Contact British Canoeing for more information on access and launch sites.

Portage platforms on the River Stour are maintained by the Environment Agency and are free for registered boaters to use.