The Ouse Fest is coming – a fortnight of exciting events celebrating the Ouse Washes landscape and communities. Events are happening from Denver to St Ives, and from Ely to Chatteris. There will be wildlife safaris, walking tours, arts and literature, museum trails, filming workshops, family fun days and more.
On 28th July 2015 the Environment Agency is hosting an OuseFest event at Denver Sluice Complex. Just a short cruise away from our hire boat base at March, you can enjoy boat trips, rowing, wildlife, birds – and the local eel man! Here are some of the highlights of the day:
1) Denver Sluice
The sluice is an important flood defence and land drainage structure, essential to East Anglia’s land drainage, flood defence, navigation and water resources. Although Denver Sluice is at the tidal limit of the River Great Ouse there is a 17km non-tidal navigation along the Flood Relief Channel towards King’s Lynn, and 48 hour moorings are available near the lock. The complex is worth a visit, even without the festival.
2) Eels and Fish
You’ll be able to get up close to eels and fish with the Environment Agency Eel Tank and meet Peter Carter, the local Eel Man. You can also explore the history of eels with The Field Theatre Group’s intriguing installation. Take a taster session with the King’s Lynn Angling Association.
3) Birds
Explore local wildlife and birds with Norfolk Wildlife Trust and the RSPB.
4) Ouse Washes Experience
See the Ouse Washes Experience Roadshow video with Ely Hereward Rotary Club.
5) Go Boating
Take a boat trip with the River Inspector or have a mini session with the West Norfolk Rowing Club. Alternatively, hire a holiday boat or day boat from Fox Narrowboats.
With so many fun activities, it’s an event not to miss! The OuseFest is on 20th July to 2nd August and is hosted by Ouse Washes Landscape Partnership
Check out the full programme at http://ousewashes.org.uk/ousefest/
You could also visit the St Ives Riverport Discovery Day by boat on Saturday July 25th: more here http://ousewashes.org.uk/events/ousefest-old-riverport-st-ives-discovery-day/. There are plenty of moorings in St Ives!
Alternatively, visit Denver Sluice, explore local wildlife and birds and take an extended boat trip on a date to suit you. Check availability
Day Boat Hire on the Middle Level: Check availability
