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.

Paper Mill Lock 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 now only very limited free roadside parking by the bridge, so since 2020 by far the best bet for parking on a busy summer’s day is the £5 ‘River’ car-park under the willow trees (@PaperMillLock on Facebook). The Tea Rooms (@PaperMillLockTearooms) are usually open 10am to 5.30pm for refreshments and offer customer toilets. 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 … or you can purchase (cash or cheque) from the Resident Caretakers – see Sue at Paper Mill, or June / Ian at Hoe Mill. £5 day launches are available.

Best found with the aid of a sat-nav! Nearest postcode CM3 4BS. Paper Mill Lock is on North Hill, just north of Little Baddow. Limited free parking on the roadside near the bridge, or £5 at the ‘River’ car-park in summertime. Recommended launches: what3words.com/pickle.throwaway.steep & what3words.com/causes.pushed.seabirds

Little Baddow Mill 4k
All Saints Church 6k
Stonham’s 6k
Hoe Mill 8k
Barnes Mill 15k
Chelmsford 18k
Chelmsford 22k