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River Calder, Wyre facts for kids

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River Calder
River Calder.jpg
The River Calder, near its source
Physical characteristics
Main source Fiendsdale Head
Forest of Bowland, Lancashire
1,440 feet (440 m)
53°55′50.6″N 2°38′14.4″W / 53.930722°N 2.637333°W / 53.930722; -2.637333
River mouth Barnacre-with-Bonds
Catterall
43 feet (13 m)
53°52′55.1″N 2°46′28.8″W / 53.881972°N 2.774667°W / 53.881972; -2.774667
Length 13 miles (21 km)
Basin features
Basin size 11 square miles (28 km2)


The River Calder is a river in Lancashire, England. It is about 21 kilometers (13 miles) long. The River Calder is one of the main rivers that flows into the River Wyre.

The name "Calder" comes from old languages like Old Welsh. It means "strong water" or "fast-flowing stream." This name fits well because the river can flow quite quickly!

Where Does the River Calder Flow?

The River Calder starts high up near Fiendsdale Head in the Forest of Bowland. From there, it flows west and then south.

It passes through small villages like Oakenclough and Calder Vale. The river then goes under the M6 motorway and the West Coast Main Line railway. It also flows under the Calder Aqueduct, which is part of the Lancaster Canal.

Finally, the River Calder joins the River Wyre at a place called Catterall. This is close to the town of Garstang. At this point, the Calder forms the border between Catterall and Barnacre-with-Bonds.

Other Rivers Named Calder

It's interesting to know that there are two rivers named Calder in Lancashire! The other River Calder starts near Burnley and flows into the River Ribble. So, don't get them mixed up!

How the River Calder Helps the Canal

Just west of the M6 Motorway, there's a special pipe system. This system can take water from the River Calder and send it to the Lancaster Canal. This helps keep the canal full of water for boats.

There are also two reservoirs, Barnacre and Grizedale Lea Reservoirs. They were built a long time ago, in the 1800s. These reservoirs can also take water from the upper parts of the River Calder.

Villages Along the River

Here are some of the villages and towns that the River Calder flows through or near:

  • Oakenclough
  • Calder Vale
  • Catterall

Smaller Streams Joining the Calder

Many smaller streams and brooks flow into the River Calder. These are called tributaries. They add more water to the main river as it flows along. Some of these include:

  • Little Calder River
  • Nanny Brook
  • Calder Dyke
  • East Grain
  • North Grain

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