The river forms a limestone dale with ancient woodlands.

It flows in a north-east direction past Woodale, Braidley and Horsehouse.

[3] The river flows north eastwards for 14 miles (22 km) and drains an area covering over 20,130 acres (8,146 ha).

It is a gently meandering river with a characteristic stony channel and beaches leading to wooded low banks.

The wooded areas extend up into the many gills that join the river.