River Teign facts for kids

The estuary of the River Teign

The River Teign (say 'tain') is a cool river in south Devon, England. It's about 31 miles (50 km) long. This river starts high up on Dartmoor, a wild and beautiful area.

As it gets closer to the sea, the Teign turns into an estuary. This happens just after Newton Abbot. An estuary is where the river meets the salty sea. Finally, the River Teign flows into the English Channel at a town called Teignmouth.

What is the River Teign?

The River Teign is a natural waterway. It flows through the beautiful county of Devon. Rivers are important for nature and people. They provide homes for animals and water for plants.

How the River Teign is Formed

The River Teign doesn't start as one big river. It actually begins as two smaller rivers. These are called the North Teign and the South Teign. They join together to form the main River Teign.

Where the River Starts

The North Teign and South Teign both begin on Dartmoor. This is a large area of moorland in Devon. It's known for its rugged hills and open spaces. Rainwater collects on Dartmoor and forms these small streams.

The River's Journey to the Sea

After the two parts join, the River Teign flows southeast. It passes through different landscapes. Eventually, it reaches the town of Newton Abbot. Here, the river starts to widen.

The Teign Estuary

An estuary is a special place. It's where a river's fresh water mixes with the salty water from the sea. The Teign estuary is home to many birds and sea creatures. It's a very important natural habitat.

Teignmouth: Where the River Meets the Sea

The River Teign finally reaches the English Channel at Teignmouth. This is a popular seaside town. The estuary here is wide and beautiful. Boats often sail on the water near Teignmouth.

Images for kids

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  The Teign near Fingle Bridge and Castle Drogo, with a kayaker in the background