The River Nene in Cambridgeshire is a major, navigable waterway, part of an extensive network of drains and rivers in The Fens. It is pronounced 'Nen' or 'Nin' and flows approximately 100 miles from its source to the Wash, with the navigable section beginning from the Northampton Arm of the Grand Union Canal. The river's character in this region is largely influenced by the surrounding fenland, featuring long, straight, and embanked manmade drains that connect to it. These drains are ideal for beginners and for training. A specific access point for paddlers is at Ramsey Forty Foot, where steps have been built by the Middle Level Commissioners on Hollow Road, making for an easier launch from the bank. From here, paddlers can explore a network of waterways that connect towns including Whittlesey, Ramsey, March, Benwick, Upwell, and Outwell, and link the River Nene to the River Great Ouse. The Middle Level Commissioners manage 99 miles of navigable waterways in this network. A waterways licence is required to paddle on these managed waterways, which can be obtained through membership in organisations like Paddle UK. The vision of the commissioners includes better connecting Peterborough and Whittlesey for paddling, with potential for a paddle sports hub at Stanground Lock. Wildlife such as swans, ducks, and kingfishers can be seen along the routes. For a multi-day adventure, the river can be followed all the way from Northampton to the Wash.