River Trent

The mighty River Trent is one of England’s major rivers. It flows through the bustling city of Nottingham, the market town of Newark and the rural Trent Vale.

The Trent Valley Way is a long-distance walking route, following the banks of the river. The scenery is mostly arable farmland, with villages, churches, watermills and old ferry crossings along the way. Newark Castle sits directly on the banks of the river, its high stone walls dropping straight down to the water.

Near Nottingham is the National Watersports Centre, where you can do lots of exciting activities, including canoeing, sailing, water-skiing and rowing. The British Canoe Union is based here. For a more tranquil day out, there is the Attenborough Nature Reserve, a series of lakes that are home to a rich variety of wildlife.

For boaters, the broad and fast-flowing River Trent is a clear contrast to the canals. However, the tidal reaches below Cromwell Lock are only recommended for experienced boaters.

The Canal & River Trust looks after the River Trent from Shardlow, where it becomes navigable, to Gainsborough Bridge.

Find stoppages, restrictions and other navigational advice for this waterway.