John's River facts for kids

John's River, also called St. John's River, is a small river in Waterford city, Ireland. It flows through the city before joining the larger River Suir. This river is an important part of Waterford's natural landscape and history. It is about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) long.

Where John's River Begins

John's River starts in the marshy lands south of Waterford city. You can first see it near the Pitch & Putt course on Tramore Road. Another stream flows nearby, with a walking path beside it. These streams meet behind the Westgate Retail Park. Before this meeting point, the main river winds through busy shopping areas.

The River's Journey Through Waterford

After the streams join, the river flows mostly hidden behind the Tramore Road Business Park. Another stream adds to it near Gaelic Park. From there, the river begins to curve and turn. It goes under Bath Street in Poleberry and past the Bohemians sports ground. It also passes under a bridge near Tesco Supermarket.

The river then runs alongside the Railway Square complex. It turns and goes under John's Bridge, reaching an area called the Waterside. By this point, the river has grown quite wide. The water here is also affected by the tides from the sea.

Picturesque Waterside Area

The Waterside part of the river is very pretty. It has a quiet, tree-lined street on one side. A pedestrian bridge crosses the river here. This bridge used to lead to an old gas works. The river then flows under Hardy's Bridge. It continues between the People's Park and the city courthouse. This area is very green and scenic. Another lovely iron footbridge connects the courthouse grounds to the park.

Reaching the River Suir

Finally, John's River passes under a bridge at Lombard Street. It then widens out between Scotch and Adelphi Quays. Here, you can see small boats docked. This area is peaceful and has been updated with homes and public spaces. It still keeps its old maritime, or sea-faring, feel. A footbridge connects Scotch and Adelphi Quays. Just below this bridge, John's River joins the mighty River Suir.

History of John's River Area

A long time ago, the area around the quays, People's Park, Catherine Street, and The Mall was mostly marshland. This wet area had a pool of water called The Pill, which was fed by John's River.

In the late 1700s, a group called the Wide Streets Commission drained this marshland and The Pill. They did this to build The Mall and help Waterford city grow eastward. After this work, John's River had clear banks all the way to the River Suir.

River Health and Water Quality

In 2011, a report mentioned that John's River faced challenges with its water quality along most of its path. Efforts are often made to keep rivers clean and healthy for everyone.