Grade: 2+ to 4+

Upper section to Harford Bridge is Grade 3+ (4). 

Harford Bridge to Ivybridge is Grade 4/4+.

Ivybridge to Ermington is Grade 2+.

A river in south Devon, the River Erme is an ‘all rounder’ river. It has different sections offering different things to paddlers who wish to paddle here.

The source of the river is in the impressive Dartmoor National Park. From here it flows through dense moorland and impressive gorges.

But this isn’t the only section of the River Erme to appeal to nature lovers. The lower reaches of the river close to the estuary are also home to extensive salt marshes, as well as wildlife including curlews, oystercatchers, shelduck and kingfishers.

In terms of white water, paddlers unfamiliar with higher grades of white water should study the area where they plan to paddle carefully.

Although there are many sections of this river which are relatively flat, fast flowing sections or small rapids, there are also sections which run as high as grade 5-6 in high waters! It’s important that paddlers familiarise themselves with water levels and various sections that can be paddled.

As well as offering white water, the tidal section of the River Erme begins after the weir at Sequers Bridge. Did you know? The areas around the estuary have been used largely as a filming location over the years.

International Velvet, Rebecca, and Sense and Sensibility are just three. See if you recognise any of the scenery as you paddle through.