Welcome to the River Wey Society Website

The RIVER WEY, with a length of about five and a half miles, is possibly the shortest major river in the country. It originates from the chalk ridge to the north of Weymouth and is one of 161 chalk rivers in England. They follow the band of chalk that sweeps diagonally across southern England and occur nowhere else in the UK. They are very rare in the world as a whole.

Historically the Wey has provided pure water and power, it is the life-blood of the Wey Valley and Weymouth Harbour which in the past was an artery of trade with ships navigating as far up river as Radipole village.

Over centuries as many as six mills have been powered by river force. The first of these is within 300 metres of the source demonstrating the remarkable flow rate from the spring at Upwey Wishing Well.

Farmers also captured benefits from the river by installing sluice gates. This allowed seasonal crop irrigation management by flooding water meadows. Some of the sluices may still be seen today.

The river continues as a valuable asset even providing hydro-electric power. Leisure facilities include the delightful Wey Valley Walk. Sailing, diving and fishing activities have increased significantly over the past 25 years centred on the now ever-busy mouth of the Wey in Weymouth Harbour.

Please click here to view more photographs.