The River Tees

The River Tees has been the lifeblood of the region and its people for thousands of years.

Originally famed as the best salmon river in England during the 19th century, it was steeped in shipbuilding traditions and industry. Lately is has undergone a dramatic rebirth and is now classed as a grade A, 2 star river for game and coarse fishing.

The construction of the Tees Barrage in 1995 created a new river environment; the non-tidal water is once again teaming with wildlife, the salmon are leaping and the river provides an exciting choice for recreation and sports. Sailing, bellboating, kayaking and fishing are now abound on the river and three purpose-built watersports centres have been created, including a white water rafting and canoeing course.

One of the most scenic and relaxing ways to enjoy the river is by boarding the Teesside Princess River Cruiser which sails all year round from Castlegate Quay in Stockton on Tees to Yarm, stopping off at Preston Park enroute.