Butley River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Butley |
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Butley River at Boyton Dock
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 Location within Suffolk
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| Country | England |
| Region | Suffolk |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Rendlesham Forest 13 m (43 ft) 52°06′36″N 1°24′36″E / 52.110°N 1.410°E |
| River mouth | River Ore near Boyton Marshes 0 m (0 ft) 52°04′15″N 1°30′09″E / 52.0708°N 1.5025°E |
| Length | 12.2 km (7.6 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | River Ore |
The Butley River, also known as Butley Creek, is a smaller river that flows into the River Ore in the English county of Suffolk. It starts in the Rendlesham Forest area and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings.
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Discovering the Butley River
The Butley River is like a smaller branch, or tributary, of the larger River Ore. It begins its journey in the peaceful Rendlesham Forest, which is located east of a village called Eyke. The river is about 12.2 kilometers (7.6 miles) long.
A River with Tides and History
The Butley River is special because it's a tidal river. This means that the water level goes up and down with the ocean's tides, just like the sea. This tidal part stretches from where it meets the River Ore near Boyton all the way inland to a place called Butley Mills. It almost reaches the village of Chillesford, Suffolk.
Long ago, people used the river for transport. A water mill, a building that used the river's power to grind grain, was first recorded at Butley Mills way back in 1530! However, by 1948, the river had become too silted. This means too much mud and sand had built up, making it too shallow for boats or for the mill to work properly.
Nature and Conservation
The Butley River is located within a very special area called the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This title means the area has amazing landscapes and wildlife that are protected.
Near the mouth of the river, on an area of marshy land called salt marsh, you'll find the Boyton Marshes. This is an RSPB reserve, which means it's a protected home for many different kinds of birds.
There's also a group called the Alde & Ore Association. This charity works to "preserve and protect" the Alde, Ore, and Butley Creek rivers. They help keep these rivers and their banks healthy and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Crossing the River
During the summer, you can cross the river using the Butley Ferry. This small ferry helps people walking or cycling along the Suffolk Coast Path get from Orford to Boyton and Butley. It's a fun and unique way to see the river!
