CONSERVATORS OF THE RIVER CAM
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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).
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.
