River Bourne, Wiltshire facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Bourne, Wiltshire |
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The River at Winterbourne Gunner
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| Country | United Kingdom |
| Region | Wiltshire |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 51°21′09″N 1°40′17″W / 51.35250°N 1.67139°W |
| River mouth | Salisbury 51°03′44″N 1°47′22″W / 51.06222°N 1.78944°W |
| Length | 48km |
The River Bourne is a river located in Wiltshire, a county in England, United Kingdom. It is a smaller river that flows into a larger one called the Salisbury Avon. Think of it like a smaller road joining a main highway.
The River Bourne flows mostly south for about 48 kilometers (that's about 30 miles). Sometimes, in its upper parts, the river can dry up completely during summer. This type of river is called a winterbourne, because it only flows well in winter or after a lot of rain.
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Where Does the River Bourne Start?
The River Bourne begins its journey in a place called the Vale of Pewsey. This is a beautiful valley in the eastern part of Wiltshire. The exact spot where the river starts is just south of a village named Burbage.
Journey Through the Landscape
From its source, the river flows through a chalky area. It cuts through a steep slope of land called a chalk escarpment near Collingbourne Kingston. An escarpment is like a natural step in the land, often made of rock.
After this, the river continues south across a wide, open area known as Salisbury Plain. This plain is famous for its rolling hills and ancient sites. As it crosses the plain, the River Bourne passes through the town of Tidworth and the village of Shipton Bellinger.
The River's Path to Salisbury
As the River Bourne keeps flowing south, it goes through a series of villages often called the Bourne Valley villages. These villages are nestled along the river's banks.
Villages Along the Way
The villages the river passes include:
- Cholderton
- Newton Tony
- Allington
- Boscombe
- Idmiston
- Porton
- Gomeldon
- Winterbourne Gunner
- Winterbourne Dauntsey
- Winterbourne Earls
- Hurdcott
After passing through areas like Ford and Laverstock, the River Bourne finally meets the Salisbury Avon. This happens on the eastern edge of the city of Salisbury. Here, the Bourne's waters join the Avon, continuing their journey together.
