The Course of the River

To truly understand the River Sid, one must follow its journey from the quiet hills of East Devon to the bustling seafront of Sidmouth. Along the way, the river changes character—from a narrow stream to a heavily modified urban channel.

1. The Upper Reaches: Sidbury to Sidford

Much of the river’s start is hidden from view as it flows through private land. The first major point of public access is in Sidbury.

• Deepway Meadow (Millennium Green): In Sidbury, the river is narrow and shallow as it runs alongside this popular parkland. Learners can observe native riparian plants here.

• Sidford Crossing: The river passes under the A3052, at a site that was once a traditional ford.

• Slowing Flow: In Sidford, the terrain levels out, causing the water to slow and shingle deposits to build up. The banks here are lined with Alders and vegetation influenced by nearby agricultural pastures.

2. The Middle Course: Fortescue and The Byes

As the Sid moves south of Sidford, it enters a more wooded and scenic environment.

• Fortescue & Riverside Wood: Near the hamlet of Fortescue, the river flows through a strip of woodland known as "Riverside Wood". This area features an open canopy that allows wildflowers to flourish.

• Wildlife Spotting: The faster flow in this section makes it a prime location for seeing dippers.

• The Byes: This is a favored parkland walk. While popular with families and dog walkers, the high level of human disturbance means less animal life is typically visible in this specific stretch.

3. Engineering the Flow: School Weir

At the southern end of The Byes lies one of the river's most significant human-made features: School Weir.

• Physical Barrier: This "waterfall" stands over six feet (2.5m) high.

• Ecological Impact: The weir is a major obstacle for migratory fish like salmon and sea trout, preventing them from reaching their historic breeding grounds in the upper reaches.

• Flood Control: While it disrupts nature, it serves a critical role in slowing the river's flow as it enters the town.

4. The Lower Sid: Protecting Sidmouth

Once the river passes under Salcombe Road, its natural character is replaced by functional engineering designed to protect the town from flooding.

• The "Open Drain": In this urban phase, the course has been straightened and the banks fortified with high walls. Because flow and water levels are controlled by further weirs, the water here is much deeper.

• Colonised Deposits: Look for a sediment bank on the east side just past the ford; it has been colonised by various waterside plants and offers a glimpse of nature reclaiming the concrete channel.

5. The River Mouth: A Constant Battle

The journey ends where the Sid meets the sea, a location defined by a daily struggle between fresh water and salt water.

• The Shingle Barrier: At high tide, waves push shingle and gravel into the river's path, creating a natural dam.

• The Exit: At low tide, the river regains its strength, eroding the bank to force its way back out into the sea.

• Avian Activity: This area is popular with gulls, who use the fresh water to drink and wash salt from their feathers.