Map OS Landranger 183: 194 and 195
The Stour rises not far from Mere and flows south and east to Christchurch Harbour. A quiet river, passing through pleasant country. Weeds and rushes are plentiful in summer but there is usually a fair current. Apt to be shallow below mills and weirs, but with long placid stretches above them. Private water all the way down.
It has been canoed from Gillingham, but these upper parts are narrow and twisting and a better starting point would be Sturminster Newton.
There are about four weirs, two ruined, in the 14 miles from Sturminster Newton past Bryanston School to Blandford Forum, and another two weirs in the 13 miles to Wimborne. Canford bridge and weir are followed by Canford School. There are two portages in the 8 miles from here to Ensbury Bridge (A.347), and another at Throop 3 miles beyond. The river is tidal for the last 2 miles from Iford Bridge to Christchurch Quay.
Canoeing takes place at Bryanston and Canford Schools through the property of which the river passes.
There are no access agreements on the river. Enquiries about the advisability of canoeing can be made to the L.A.O. (If writing please send a stamped addressed envelope)
BCU Local Access Officer
Simon
Redman
50 Grosvenor Road
Stalbridge
Dorset
DT10 2PN
Tel: 01963 363413