Environment Agency - Home

Severn Bore and Trent Aegir safety

Please remember...

  • The water rises substantially for at least another hour after the initial wave (until high tide).
  • Take care where you stand to watch the bore or aegir and also where you park your vehicle. Rising waters can cut you off from your car.
  • The most dangerous place to watch the Severn Bore is near Stonebench.
  • Viewers of the Trent Aegir at Gainsborough are advised to stand on the inland side of the earth flood embankment.

  • The Environment Agency actively discourages surfing and boating on the bore.

In the interests of safety, all river users must:

  • Wear appropriate buoyancy aids.
  • Navigate responsibly.
  • Observe the speed limits.
  • Avoid navigating too close to the river bank to avoid becoming trapped or hurt.
  • At Minsterworth where Severn Bore spectators congregate, powered craft must stay a reasonable distance behind the bore wave so onlookers can appreciate the spectacle - driving powered craft through the crest of the wave is inconsiderate.