Muddy Old River Video
A 3-day kayak camping trip on the River Severn
My yearly trip down the River Severn on an inflatable kayak! This time I spent a night wild camping on my own little private island, an island you may have seen on a previous kayak camping trip I filmed, and then a second-night stealth camping on the riverside at some sort of fishing place. As usual, it was a great trip! There’s a 1.5-hour YouTube video HERE
I got on the River Severn in Bridgnorth. The riverside has plenty of great points where you can get in with a kayak.
I then paddled (*floated lazily) down the river for a few hours enjoying the scenery rolling by, and then the gentle song of the paddle over trickling water and wildlife.
Leaving Bridgnorth I passed through some lovely green Shropshire countryside and stopped a couple of times for coffee and snacks and checked out some of the sandstone cliffs. The overcast skies gave way to some amazing mid-summer sunshine, too amazing, you’ll hear about that later…
After a couple more hours relaxing in the sun, I floated down to “the island”, to set up camp for the night. I’m not going to give the location away too easily, but with a bit of research and by watching the video, you could probably figure it out. Please LNT if you visit.
I’ve camped on this island a few times before. Is it safe? Hmmm, I’m not sure. It’s safe enough for me on the rare occasion I visit. I’m pretty careful with checking the river and weather conditions before I do so. I’m not going to give advice on that here, but please be very cautious. I do not advise wild camping on a river island!
However, it is bloody cool.
Something I’ve never done on this island though is to take a proper look around. It’s overgrown, rarely, if ever, visited by anyone, and difficult to move around. I attempted to try and explore and find an alternative camping spot to my usual place but gave up and settled for my spot on the upper edge. It has a nice flat grass patch that’s just big enough for my kayak.
Sleeping arrangements were as per normal for me when kayak camping. I found some suitable sticks and made a frame over the kayak with my paddle. Covered it with a tarp, and settled down with a beer to cook cheeseburgers on a fire. Does it get much better than that?
I met one of the island’s inhabitants, a giant swan, stuck there since Jurassic times. I shared my bread, struggled to get him to leave me alone, enjoyed another beer and settled down for a night in the kayak.
Bacon sandwiches followed a long peaceful night and I packed up my stuff to continue down the River Severn.
Leaving the swan behind.
The loose “plan” for a camping spot on night two was for it to be somewhere near Trimpley Reservoir, but I was easygoing, and not too bothered about being anywhere in particular. I’d arranged to be picked up in a car from Stourport the following day, so all I had to do was somehow make it there.
The weather made a turn for the worse, with plenty of rain showers, but the rest of day two was fantastic. Short sections of fast moving river occasionally stirred up what was otherwise a slow-moving peaceful float.
There were lots of great views along the way. Lush green pastures and all kinds of wildlife, from the kingfisher to a few leaping salmon. After a few stops to avoid the rain, I heard the toot of a steam train on the Severn Valley Railway and found somewhere to get out of the river to take a look. At the place I pulled out, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, I found a load of old coins. Strange, maybe check out the video for that one.
I then walked out from that riverside position across a farmer’s field to take a better look at the Severn Valley Railway steam trains. After a few hundred metres I stopped near the line and waited for one to pass.
It did, full of passengers, smartly dressed enjoying their fine dining. Bemused as to why there was a man who looked homeless, standing in the middle of a farmer’s field in the middle of nowhere, on his own, covered in mud and wearing sandals. Good fun!!!
Severn past caravan parks and an old abandoned bridge, I arrived at camping spot number two. It was on the riverside of some kind of closed fishing place, so I deemed it acceptable for a bit of brief wild camping.
I cooked up some steak and cheese, enjoyed a beer (of course) and settled down in the kayak for a bit of stealth camping. The place was empty.
Another peaceful night gave way to a lovely sunrise and I left the camping spot bright and early to paddle down to Stourport. The river here is much busier, lined with expensive boats and caravan parks. I prefer the other end, near Bridgnorth, and that lovely couple of days slowly meandering down the quiet section of the river.
Consider checking out the full video. It’s 1 and a half hours long, with a 30-minute “silent” section. Just ambience, none of me jabbering… and made in 4K for the telly.
And then an hour of BTS, behind-the-scenes chat.
Enjoy.
Muddy Old River - A 3 day kayak camping trip on the River Severn
I’ve done this kayak camping trip down the River Severna a few times before, and filmed one before too. You’ll find that here.
About the River Severn
The River Severn is one of the most important rivers in the United Kingdom. It stretches 220 miles (354 km) from its source in the Cambrian Mountains of mid-Wales to its mouth in the Bristol Channel, where it forms a vast estuary that empties into the Irish Sea.
The river is the longest in the UK, and its watershed covers an area of 4,409 square miles (11,420 square km) that includes parts of Wales, England, and even a small section of Scotland. The river has played a crucial role in the development of the region, and it has a rich history that spans many centuries.
The source of the Severn is located on the slopes of Plynlimon, the highest mountain in mid-Wales. The river begins as a tiny stream that eventually joins with other tributaries, including the Hafren Forest and the Clywedog, as it flows through the hills and valleys of Wales.
As the Severn leaves the Welsh mountains, it enters the English county of Shropshire, where it passes through the towns of Shrewsbury and Ironbridge. This section of the river is famous for its stunning landscapes, and the Ironbridge Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The river continues its journey towards the sea, and as it reaches the English Midlands, it widens considerably, and its flow becomes slower. The Severn passes through the city of Worcester, where it is spanned by the historic Worcester Bridge, and then continues on towards Gloucester, where it meets the River Avon.
From Gloucester, the river flows southwards towards Bristol, and its estuary becomes increasingly broad and tidal. The Severn Estuary is one of the largest estuaries in Europe, and it is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seals and many species of wading birds.
At the mouth of the Severn, the river divides into two channels, forming the islands of Steep Holm and Flat Holm. The river then flows into the Bristol Channel, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The River Severn has played a significant role in the history and culture of the region, and it continues to be an essential source of water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use. Today, the river and its surrounding areas are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from kayaking and fishing to hiking and wildlife spotting.
Kayaking on the River Severn
Kayaking on the River Severn can be an exciting and rewarding experience, offering stunning scenery and challenging rapids. However, it is essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety while on the water.
Before setting out on your kayak trip, it is important to check the weather forecast and the water conditions. Strong winds and heavy rain can make kayaking dangerous, so it is best to avoid paddling during extreme weather conditions.
You should also check the river level and flow rate to ensure that they are suitable for kayaking. The Environment Agency provides up-to-date information on river conditions and safety alerts on their website, which is a valuable resource for kayakers.
Wearing the appropriate safety equipment is also crucial for kayaking on the River Severn. A personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket is a must-have, as it will help keep you afloat if you fall into the water. You should also wear appropriate clothing and footwear, such as a wetsuit or drysuit and non-slip shoes.
When kayaking on the River Severn, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards, such as fast currents, rapids, submerged rocks, and overhanging trees. It is best to avoid kayaking alone, and always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
If you are inexperienced in kayaking, it is best to take a guided tour or a training course before attempting to navigate the river on your own. A trained and experienced guide can provide valuable safety information and guidance on the best routes to take.
Kayaking on the River Severn can be a thrilling adventure, but it is crucial to take safety seriously. By checking the weather and river conditions, wearing appropriate safety equipment, being aware of potential hazards, and seeking guidance from trained professionals, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience on the River Severn.
Kayak camping tips
Kayak camping can be a great way to explore remote areas and experience the outdoors in a unique way. Here are some kayak camping tips to help you plan and prepare for your next adventure:
Plan ahead: Before you set out, research the area where you will be camping and paddle route to ensure that you are prepared for any challenges or hazards.
Pack light: Space is limited in a kayak, so pack only the essentials. Prioritize lightweight and compact gear to save space.
Use dry bags: Store all of your gear and supplies in dry bags to keep them dry in case of unexpected weather or water exposure.
Bring a repair kit: Always bring a kayak repair kit with you, including duct tape, a multi-tool, and spare parts such as patching materials, bungee cords, and carabiners.
Bring a portable water filter: Access to clean water may be limited when camping in remote areas, so bring a portable water filter to purify water sources along the way.
Check the tides: If you are camping on the beach or near the water, check the tides and plan your campsite location accordingly.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: Minimize your impact on the environment by packing out all trash, avoiding damaging vegetation, and leaving your campsite cleaner than you found it.
Consider weather conditions: Check the weather forecast before you set out and pack appropriate clothing and gear for potential rain or cold temperatures.
Bring a first aid kit: Be prepared for any injuries or illnesses by bringing a basic first aid kit with you, including bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
Practice safe paddling: Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD), avoid paddling alone, and be aware of potential hazards in the water, such as currents, rapids, and submerged objects.
By following these kayak camping tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure.
My favourite River Severn locations
The Severn Valley Railway is a preserved heritage railway that runs along the River Severn from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster. The railway offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside, as well as a glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.
Bridgnorth is a picturesque town located on the banks of the River Severn. It is known for its historic architecture, including the remains of Bridgnorth Castle and the famous Bridgnorth Cliff Railway, which is the oldest and steepest inland electric funicular railway in the country.
Bewdley is another charming town located on the River Severn, known for its Georgian architecture and riverside promenade. It is also home to the Bewdley Museum, which provides insight into the town's history and heritage.
Hampton Loade is a small village located on the banks of the River Severn, known for its scenic views and tranquil atmosphere. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and birdwatching, with a variety of wildlife and bird species found along the riverbanks.
These locations on the River Severn offer something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, architecture, nature, or outdoor activities. If you are planning a visit to the River Severn, these locations are definitely worth adding to your itinerary.