Boating along the Middle Level Navigations
The Middle Level is popularly used as a through-route from the River Nene (and hence the canal system) to the River Great Ouse and the waterways of Cambridgeshire.
Its lonely, mysterious character is quite unique. Though the channels of the Middle Level have fewer waterside pubs and villages than other waterways, cruising them is a not-to-be-missed experience. And since no licence is required for the Middle Level, these waterways are open to all.
There are several possible routes through the intricate system: the most commonly used one leaves the Nene just east of Peterborough, heading along King's Dyke past Whittlesey, then to March, Upwell, and out through Well Creek to Salters Lode and the Denver complex on the River Great Ouse.
Now that Ashline Lock, near Whittlesey, has been lengthened, passage is possible for boats of up to 80ft length and 11ft 6in width. The longest boats will have to pass through Salters Lode 'on the level' - in other words, when the tide on the Great Ouse makes a level with the non-tidal Well Creek on the other side of the lock.
An alternative 'southern' route is available via the Forty Foot River, Horseway Lock, Welches Dam Lock and the Old Bedford River. This route is only open on certain weekends (usually twice a month), and length is limited to 47ft. Low water levels mean that this is very rarely navigated and passage is recommended only for intrepid boaters.
Although boats do not need a licence to cruise on the Middle Level Navigations, they are required to have a current Boat Safety Certificate.
Navigators should be aware the channels are primarily for drainage and water levels may sometimes fluctuate. For more details, call the Middle Level Commissioners on 01354 653232.
Find detailed information on local services, moorings and stoppages by using the drop down menu on the left.
