River
St Helen's, Santon Downham
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River Little Ouse. Leave kit at the bridge and walk upstream approx 350m to get in and Swoosh back to the bridge. Watch out for the swans! Shallow in places but swimmable in winter. There are underwater obstacles in the form of old fences/barriers so look for them as you walk up and swim in the middle to avoid. Summer is very busy with families and paddleboarders. Alternatively get in at bridge and swoosh approx 30m downstream getting out at next beached area.
Location
Getting there
Free car park.
Accessibility
Beached access to the water
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Plan your swim
Before you go
- Check recent rainfall. Rivers rise fast after heavy rain.
- Never swim in fast-flowing or flooded water
- Test entry/exit before you commit. River banks can be undercut.
- Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
- Watch for submerged obstacles like branches, weirs, and rocks
Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this river safe for swimming?
Check the Conditions tab for current flow rate and recent rainfall. Rivers can become dangerous after heavy rain. Review community reports for hazards like weirs, strong currents, or access issues.
How cold is the water?
Check the Temperature tab for the current estimate and 7-day trend. River temperatures respond quickly to weather changes. In the UK, expect 5-10°C in winter and 15-20°C in summer at most locations.
What should I bring?
A tow float, shoes with grip for slippery banks, and warm layers for after. Water shoes protect against rocks and debris on the riverbed.