A popular and pleasant non-tidal paddle on the Sussex Ouse begins just north of Lewes, with a primary launch site at Barcombe Mills. The suggested put-in is just below the main road bridge on the downstream side, where steps lead to the river. An alternative launch site 50 metres upstream, below fish ladders, is not advised on safety grounds. Parking is available nearby. From Barcombe Mills, the river meanders in a wildish state with good birdlife; the tide has minimal effect here. A key hazard is the weir at Hamsey, approximately 2.5 miles downstream from Barcombe, which requires a portage. The river becomes clearly tidal downstream of Lewes, and timing is critical. Paddling against the tidal flow is hard work, so it is best to plan your trip to ride the ebb tide. A good take-out point is at Southease Swing Bridge, roughly 9.5 miles from Barcombe, where there is a slipway and easy parking. Continuing another 4.5 miles to Newhaven is possible, but the take-out there is difficult and the harbour with large ships can be intimidating. The river is tidal below Barcombe Mills, so checking tide timetables, weather, and wind before departure is essential. The overall character is a pretty, picturesque waterway passing through the East Sussex countryside, with several designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest. A specific paddling restriction exists: an agreement with the Ouse Angling Society states that canoeing is not permitted above Hamsey on the first weekend after the 16th of June each year. The River Ouse in Sussex is 35 miles long, rising in West Sussex and emptying into the English Channel at Newhaven.