Definition
Feildes Weir is a weir and accompanying lock situated on the River Lea (also spelled Lee) in Hertfordshire, England. It forms part of the Lee Navigation, a canalised stretch of the river used for inland water transport and recreation.
Overview
The structure is located near the small settlement of Feildes, between the towns of Cheshunt and Broxbourne, and lies within the Lee Valley Regional Park. The weir serves to regulate water levels on the navigable section of the river, while the lock—commonly referred to as Feildes Weir Lock—provides a means for vessels to bypass the weir and continue upstream or downstream. The lock is operated by the Canal & River Trust and is primarily used by leisure craft, anglers, and walkers accessing the surrounding countryside and nature reserves.
Etymology / Origin
The name “Feildes” is derived from the historic name of the locality in which the weir is situated. The term is thought to originate from an English surname or a reference to agricultural fields in the area; however, detailed etymological records are not definitively documented. Consequently, the precise origin of the place‑name remains uncertain.
Characteristics
- Weir type: Fixed weir constructed of concrete and stone, designed to maintain a consistent upstream water level for navigation.
- Lock specifications: A conventional narrow lock (approximately 5 m wide by 35 m long) equipped with manually operated paddles and a lift of roughly 1.5 m.
- Operational status: The lock is maintained for recreational navigation and is open year‑round, subject to seasonal water level adjustments.
- Surrounding environment: The weir and lock lie adjacent to riparian habitats, including wetlands that support a variety of bird and aquatic species; the area is a popular route for walkers on the Lee Valley Walk.
Related Topics
- Lee Navigation – the canalised portion of the River Lea used for inland navigation.
- River Lea (Lee) – the river that flows from the Chiltern Hills to the Thames, passing through Hertfordshire and Greater London.
- Canal & River Trust – the charitable organization responsible for the upkeep of the United Kingdom’s inland waterways, including Feildes Weir Lock.
- Weirs in the United Kingdom – engineered structures used to control water flow, levels, and to facilitate navigation.
- Lee Valley Regional Park – a large public park encompassing the Lee Valley, offering recreational facilities and natural reserves.