Our River
Protecting Wildlife on the Alde & Ore Estuary
We have lived on the shores of the stunning Alde & Ore estuary at Iken Cliff for most of our lives, and this is where our business is based. Iken Canoe is just a couple of miles down river from Snape Maltings and about 4 miles up river from the coastal town of Aldeburgh.
Overall, the length of the tidal section of the river (from Snape Bridge to the sea at Shingle Street) is approximately 18 miles and, halfway down, its name changes from the Alde to the Ore.
The estuary has been a trading route for well over a thousand years, with evidence of maritime trade dating back to at least the Anglo-Saxon period (7th-9th Centuries) – and possibly earlier when the Romans were trading along the Suffolk coast.
In fact, commercial trading continued right up until 1965 when Snape Malting’s malting operations ceased, and the need to ship out locally grown and processed barley ended. Today, the vast majority of activity on the river is leisure related; privately launched sailing and motor boats, as well as paddle craft and commercial river trips.
Recognised for its exceptional wildlife and habitats, the Alde & Ore is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), in addition to having European special protection status, and is nationally and internationally recognised for its importance for populations of breeding and overwintering birds. Its mudflats, saltmarshes and shingle banks provide vital feeding and nesting grounds for birds such as avocet, redshank and oystercatcher, and many more.
When exploring by canoe or kayak, Iken Canoe’s paddlers have a unique opportunity to experience this remarkable environment close up — but also a responsibility to help protect it.
How you can help
Prior to your trip with us we will of course brief you on all aspects of the time you will spend on the water including a particular focus on the wildlife you may see, and how best to avoid disturbing it. These briefings provide us with a major opportunity to achieve public engagement and education on the conservation of the Alde & Ore estuary. In addition, as a registered Delivery Partner for British Canoeing, we are committed to minimising our footprint, and the footprint of our paddlers on the estuary, its wildlife and habitats.
- To minimise disturbance, keep a respectful distance from birds, seals and other wildlife
- Avoid high tide roosts (where birds congregate while their mudflat feeding grounds are covered)
- Do not land on mudflats or saltmarsh islands. ONLY land and get out of your boat at Snape Bridge or Iken Cliff
- Do not paddle into reed beds
- Only paddle within the main river channel as directed – marked by withies (tall sticks) for the entire route. Our mantra is “Stick to the Sticks!”
- Paddle quietly keeping noise to a minimum, maintaining steady movements and avoiding sudden noises or approaches. If wildlife changes behaviour – for example birds taking flight – move away calmly
- Iken Canoe will only hire out canoes and kayaks either side of high water when the mudflats are covered, and this will help you mitigate against any potential wildlife disturbance
- Dogs are not permitted as they can cause additional disturbance
By ‘treading lightly’ and staying alert to the natural sensitivities of the estuary, every customer of ours can help ensure this special landscape remains a thriving haven for wildlife for generations to come. Enjoy your paddle — and thank you for protecting the Alde & Ore.
How to find us:
