River Isle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Isle |
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River Isle at Isle Brewers
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| Country | England |
| County | Somerset |
| Region | Somerset Levels |
| Cities | Isle Brewers, Ilminster, Knowle St Giles, Chard, Somerset |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Combe St Nicholas, Somerset, England 50°55′10″N 2°56′23″W / 50.91944°N 2.93972°W |
| River mouth | River Parrett Somerset, England 51°00′32″N 2°49′55″W / 51.00889°N 2.83194°W |
| Length | 14 mi (23 km) |
The River Isle (also known as the River Ile) is a river in Somerset, England. It starts near Combe St Nicholas and flows into the River Parrett. This meeting point is south of Langport, close to Midelney.
Contents
Where Does the River Isle Start?
The River Isle begins when several small springs join together near a place called Wadeford. From there, it flows north. It passes through towns and villages like Donyatt, Ilminster, Puckington, and Isle Abbotts. Finally, it meets the River Parrett.
How Steep is the River Isle?
The first part of the river drops about 250 feet (76 m) over 6 miles (9.7 km). This means it flows quite steeply at the beginning. After that, it becomes less steep, falling about 80 feet (24 m) over the next 8 miles (13 km).
History and Importance of the River Isle
Because the upper part of the river was steep, many mills were built along its banks a long time ago. These mills used the power of the flowing water. At least one mill was already there when the Domesday Book was written. This book was a huge survey of England made in 1086. These mills were very important for the local economy, especially for the wool trade.
Bridges and Canals on the River Isle
There is an old road bridge over the River Isle at Knowle St Giles. This bridge is a listed building, which means it's an important historical structure.
In the 1830s, a lock was built where the River Isle meets the River Parrett. This was done to control the water levels when the Westport Canal was built. The canal joins the River Isle about 1 mile (1.6 km) before the Isle flows into the Parrett.
Chard Reservoir
Chard Reservoir was created in the 1840s by building a dam across the River Isle. This reservoir was made to supply water for the Chard Canal.
