River Sow

The River Sow is a tributary of the River Trent in Staffordshire. It rises near Broughton, south of Loggerheads, and flows south-east past villages such as Fairoak, Bishop’s Offley and Walk Mill. The river reaches Cop Mere before joining Brockton Brook near Eccleshall. It passes Chebsey, where Meece Brook joins, and continues through Worston and Great Bridgeford. Doxey Marshes, a nature reserve, lies along its path before the Sow enters Stafford. The Sow has historical significance as the River Sow Navigation was navigable between Stafford and Baswich from 1816 to the 1920s. A community interest company called Stafford Riverway Link now leads efforts to restore this section. The river’s water quality was tested in 2009, showing a pH level of 7.6 and oxygen saturation of 68% at its source. Several fish species inhabit the Sow, including chub, roach, pike and bream. Visitors can follow the river’s route through Stafford’s Victoria Park. Beyond the town, it passes Baswich and is joined by its largest tributary, the River Penk. The Sow flows beneath a bridge near Milford and Tixall before entering the grounds of Shugborough Hall. Near Essex Bridge, it finally meets the River Trent. The surrounding landscape includes marshes, meadows and parkland, offering a peaceful setting for walks.