No tides! And as the river is governed by locks, there’s generally not much current either… (Usually just a gentle flow from west to east, although it can get pretty strong after heavy rain.) Rainfall, drought and canal maintenance can effect the water level.

Mill House is usually far enough inland to escape the sea breeze on a hot, sunny day. Pressure-driven winds are generally much lighter here than at the coast too. And thanks to the riverbanks and surrounding valley, even if it is windy the water stays flat. Strong paddlers should be fine in pretty much any wind conditions – as ever, just be sure to paddle upwind first so it’s easier coming back! Check out our SUP Weather section for the latest…

There’s very limited free roadside parking immediately north of the bridge, which can fill up quickly since the double yellow lines appeared in 2020, but absolutely no facilities. Licences are required to launch on the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation – SUPsect is licensed for our school / hire fleet of boards. Annual personal licences (£35 per year) are available to buy online via www.waterways.org.uk – £5 day launches are also available.

Turn east off the A12 at junction 18 (Maldon Road), then immediately take the first exit north, parallel with the A12, onto Hammonds Road. Follow this for a mile until you pass Mill House Caravan Park (postcode CM3 4BG) which is just before the Church Road bridge. Park on gravel at the roadside just north of the bridge. Recommended launch what3words.com/dockers.cookbooks.labs

Cuton Lock 6k
A12 Roadbridge 8k
Sandford Lock 9k
Hoe Mill 11k
Barnes Mill 12k
Chelmsford 15k