T
he River Eden is entirely Cumbrian and is one of the few large rivers in England that flows northwards. The source of the river is on the high limestone fells above Mallerstang Common, near the North Yorkshire border, and makes its way across
eastern Cumbria, with the hills of the North Pennines to the East, and the fells of the Lake District to the west, to Carlisle. Here it merges with other rivers to form the great Solway Firth estuary, before reaching the open sea, 90 miles (145 km) from its source.
T
his small section of the river is as hard to discover as it is unique; it’s a hidden treasure.
P
eople often visit the river for a wide range of activities such as jogging cycling, dog walking, canoeing, and fishing. At this current moment the area has no longer been maintained and therefore portrays a feeling of abandoment.
The river is a very sensory experience; the delecate flowers, quite scenery and constant flow of fresh water provides a calming mood.
T
he Eden has now become a wide and attractive waterway, as its winds its way through rich farmlands bordering the A66. This road is laid on the old Roman road from York to Carlisle, and the villages of Kirkby Thore and
Temple Sowerby both have relics of Roman occupation. The Eden Bridge at temple Sowerby marks the former boundary between Cumberland and Westmorland, and is also the halfway stage of the river’s journey.
W
ater quality in the upper reaches is classified as good, and drinking water is abstracted to supply the city of Carlisle. The river is excellent for salmon fishing and also supports a sea trout run.
Many other species of fish are also found, eg brown trout, grayling, chub, dace, eel, minnow, loach, river lamprey , sea lamprey, and brook lamprey, stickleback and bullhead. Otters and native crayfish are also found in the Eden catchment.
T
he river during this time of day becomes a very tranquil and peaceful place to be. In my personal experience people have and come down
to the river to relax and allow themselves to take their minds of their thoughts and be mindful about the environment around them.