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River Dhoo facts for kids

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River Dhoo
Native name Awin Doo
Country Isle of Man
Cities Douglas, Union Mills, Crosby
Physical characteristics
Main source Archallagan Plantation
160 m (520 ft)
54°10′44″N 4°36′07″W / 54.179°N 4.602°W / 54.179; -4.602
River mouth Confluence with River Glass
54°09′04″N 4°30′07″W / 54.151°N 4.502°W / 54.151; -4.502
Length 10.5 km (6.5 mi)
Basin features
Tributaries

The River Dhoo (which means Awin Doo in the Manx language) is a river on the Isle of Man. It is about 10.5 kilometers (6.5 miles) long. The River Dhoo starts in a place called Marown and flows east.

It travels through the middle of the island. The river passes by towns like Crosby and Union Mills. Finally, it reaches the edge of Douglas, the capital city. Here, it joins with another river called the River Glass.

What's in a Name?

The name Dhoo comes from the Manx language. It means black or dark. The River Dhoo joins with the River Glass. Glass means clear or green.

When these two rivers meet, they form the River Douglas. This new river then flows out to sea through Douglas Harbour. It's interesting how the names describe the water!

An Old Name

Experts have studied the name Dhoo more recently. They think it's one of the oldest place-names on the Isle of Man. It might come from an old Celtic word, duboglassio. This word also means black/dark stream.

You can find similar river names in other parts of the British Isles. For example, there's a river called Dulas in Wales. There's also a place called Dawlish in England. This shows how old language can connect different places.

Where the River Flows

The River Dhoo begins in an area called Archallagan Plantation. This is a forested area in the countryside. From its source, the river flows downhill. It collects water from smaller streams along its journey.

The river's path takes it through the central valley of the Isle of Man. This valley is an important natural feature. It helps guide the river towards the coast.

Towns Along the Dhoo

As the River Dhoo flows, it passes by several communities:

  • Crosby: This is a village in the parish of Marown. The river flows near homes and fields here.
  • Union Mills: Another village the river goes through. It's a popular spot for local walks.
  • Douglas: The river reaches the outskirts of Douglas. This is where it meets the River Glass. Douglas is the largest town on the island.

The Confluence

A confluence is where two rivers meet and join together. For the River Dhoo, its confluence is with the River Glass. This happens just before they reach Douglas Harbour.

After they join, they become the River Douglas. This combined river then flows into the Irish Sea. Rivers are important for the environment and for people living nearby. They provide homes for wildlife and are used for recreation.

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