Britain's official guide to canals, rivers and lakes

Sunday 6th July 2008

Ouse Valley Way 5: from Houghton

Route facts

Waterways:
River Great Ouse »

Distance: 2 miles / 3.2km

Duration: 1 hour

Starts at: Houghton

Ends at: St Ives

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This route is part of the Ouse Valley Way which is 26 miles / 41.6km along the River Great Ouse and the countryside surrounding it. The route can be broken up into shorter, circular walks, with this one being the first. You will need to be careful near the locks and gravel pits as they are deep and are not suitable for swimming. Trousers and long sleeves are recommended as there can be giant hogweed in the area, which causes serious rashes.

There are places to stop for refreshments along the way at Houghton and St Ives. There are also pubs and shops in Hemingford Grey and Abbots for those taking the circular walks. The waymarkings along the way are green with yellow arrows.

Getting there

Parking: There is street parking in Houghton, St Ives, Hemingford Abbots and Hemingford Grey.

Public transport: The nearest train station is in Huntingdon. There is a regular bus service from St Ives to Huntingdon which stops at Houghton.

Waypoints

1. Houghton to St Ives (2 miles / 3.2km)

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This section begins at Houghton Mill where, just before and opposite, there is a path on the left, which takes you through the Caravan Park. At the narrow path, called Love Lane, turn right and follow this road to Thicket Road. Turn right here and follow it straight on until it becomes a path. There is also a hard surface path from Thicket Road to St Ives for people of all abilities. Continue along this path beside the river to St Ives to come out opposite the church. Over the bridge, Holt Island Nature Reserve will be on your right. Walk through the churchyard, to the right of the church and straight on into the centre of St Ives. You can discover the history of St Ives in the Norris Museum at the end of the quay. If you would like to continue along the Ouse Valley Way, turn left into Market Road, continue along Cromwell Place and turn right towards the St Ives bypass. Cross the roundabout and walk down Meadow Lane and go to Ouse Valley Way: Part 6.

2. St Ives to Houghton

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Meadow to a lock and follow the road back into Houghton.