River Dee

The River Dee winds through the quiet hills of south-east Cumbria, close to the Yorkshire border. It starts high above Dent Head Farm where several small streams gather on Blea Moor Moss. From there it flows north past Stone House, where Arten Gill joins it, and on to Cowgill. After turning left into Dentdale the river collects Deepdale Beck, which comes down from Whernside. Further downstream the Dee passes Lenacre and Rash before meeting the River Rawthey at Catholes near Sedbergh. The old mill at Rash Bridge is said to have inspired the folk song ‘The Jolly Miller of Dee’. The Rawthey then joins the River Lune downstream. The Dee’s clear waters run through farmland and stone bridges, offering gentle walks beside its banks. The valley sides rise steeply from the river, giving views of moorland and limestone scars. Walkers on the Dales Way often follow the Dee for long stretches. Its quiet flow contrasts with the busy Lune valley downstream.