Due to underwater hazards and dangers of cold water on hot days people have been told not to swim in the river
A Cambridgeshire beauty spot has warned visitors not to swim in its river due to there being ‘many dangers’ in the water. Houghton Mill, a popular National Trust site in Huntingdon with green spaces, stunning views and a pretty café, has issued a swimming warning after several deaths across the country.
Houghton Mill has been a popular place for swimmers, but the trust has warned that there are many dangers in the water, such as dangerous currents and other underwater hazards. In a statement, the trust said: “In the light of recent tragedies related to outdoor swimming, we’d like to remind you that we do not recommend swimming in the river at Houghton Mill.
“We know the Mill has been a popular spot for water activities for a long time; however, the waters are dangerous, and we strongly advise you not to swim. The water depth varies a great deal – some areas are suddenly very deep. There are underwater hazards that could injure or entangle you. The sluice gates could open at any time, and the waterwheel creates dangerous currents. The area is unsupervised, and there are no lifeguards present.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the water safely. If you have children who might be unsupervised near the river, please remind them not to swim near the Mill and to stay clear of the sluice gates at all times. “
Houghton Mill was almost demolished many years ago. It was then saved by the local villagers and restored to working order to carry on the tradition of milling on this site for over 1,000 years. Set in an idyllic village location on an island on the Great Ouse River, Houghton Mill has inspired artists and photographers for generations.
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