The UK’s longest river spans 220-miles and starts in Wales | Travel News | Travel
This river is the UK’s longest and passes through an incredible 220 mile stretch of England and Wales.
The River Severn has its source in the Welsh Cambrian mountains before finally emptying into the sea in the Bristol Channel.
Along its banks you’ll find the historic cities of Shrewsbury, Worcester and Gloucester, before reaching Bristol.
As the river empties into the sea it has created a massive estuary which is over five miles wide.
Many see some parts of the river as a popular place to go for walks and there are a range of riverside paths which allow for a relaxing and scenic walk.
One person who visited the river in Worcester said on TripAdvisor: “A lovely quintessential British scene. Swans gliding effortlessly, fishermen sit on boats patiently and a barge splutters, holds full, plimsoll line nearly breached! Trees hang over, leaves drinking in the crisp cold river Severn.”
The river is famous for its tidal bore – during high tides a wall of water can travel up stream for 25 miles. Tidal waves can swell the depth of the river by 50ft and it’s the second highest tide anywhere in the world.
Along its 220 mile stretch, major towns and cities have developed over time including: Newtown, Welshpool, Ironbridge, Stourport and Tewkesbury.
Another person who visited the river near Worcester said: “A delightful walk along the river. The beauty is that you can complete a full circular by using either of the foot bridges in town or via the Diglis bridge.
“It is ideal for dog walkers, as well as cyclists. We preferred the cathedral side and had a nice stop at the hotel for a drink.”
The river played an important role in the Industrial Revolution – the Midlands was a hub for developments during this period and gained some most significant history at this time.
By the end of the 17th century, the river had become the 2nd busiest in Europe, it saw vast amounts of commercial traffic and Bridgnorth was one of its most busy river ports.
Today, the river is loved by those who live near it and for those who don’t, it is a popular place to take a stroll along when visiting a nearby area.