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River Users

The River Cam navigation is one of the busiest stretches of river in Britain, around 6 miles (9.5km). The navigation begins in the centre of Cambridge at the Mill Pond and flows around the back of the Colleges, downstream towards the north, just outside of Waterbeach, where it connects with the Environment Agency waterway at Bottisham lock. Punting along the "Backs" is a focal point for tourism, while rowing is facilitated by the Colleges and City Clubs alike. Many powered craft are moored permanently along the river, while at its most northerly end at Waterbeach, sailing craft hold many regular events. Paddle craft, including stand-up-paddle boards arguably have the widest access to the navigation all year around. There are 2 historic locks, one at Jesus Green in the Centre of Cambridge and one at Baits Bite near Milton, to the north of Cambridge. (Currently Closed).

Cam Conservancy navigation Cambridge Mill Pond to Bottisham Lock.png

23/06/2025 - Useful Information

The navigation is open to Anglian Pass registered visiting powered boats through Bottisham Lock to Baits Bite Lock. Registered paddle craft may access the river in its entirity porting craft around the closed locks. Please see the latest information provided on the Lock Island page for further information.

The navigation between the Mill pond and Jesus Lock is used by manually powered boats such as punts, canoes and kayaks all year, while it is only during the autumn and winter months, when powered boats can make the same journey with permission from the Conservancy. However, currently Jesus Lock is closed due to the vulnerability of its island structure. 

Interesting Information:

The length of the river flowing down from the Mill Pond in Cambridge as far as Jesus Lock is popularly known as "The Backs" as it winds behind some of the Cambridge colleges.

The Cam along the College Backs.png

21/05/2024 LOCK CLOSURE INFORMATION

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Due to safety concerns regarding the structural integrity of the lock islands at Baits Bite and Jesus Green, the decision has been taken to temporarily close the locks until further notice. More detailed structural investigations will be undertaken and a plan for remedial works developed urgently. The Conservators are engaging with the Environment Agency and Local Authorities to seek a coordinated approach.

 

Further information: The Conservators of the River Cam are responsible for the navigation (the river) from Mill Pool in Cambridge to Bottisham Lock (Waterbeach) and the locks in between, namely Jesus Green Lock (JGL) in Cambridge and Bait’s Bite Lock (BBL). ​Each lock has an island between the lock chamber and the sluice and weir structures, which it supports. At both Jesus Lock and Baits Bite Lock, the Conservators own the lock and lock island, while the Environment Agency (EA) own and operate the sluice and weir. In addition, the lock islands support footbridges and public right of way in these locations, which are managed by the relevant Local Authorities.​

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Following observations of cracks in both lock islands, early in 2024 the Conservators of the River Cam commissioned structural surveys.​ The consequent reports identify significant structural fragility in the lock islands and a need for reinforcement work in the short to medium term.​ The Conservators have collectively reviewed the reports and are urgently drawing up a detailed risk assessment, commissioning more detailed surveys, and developing a project plan for remedial works.

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