The major rivers of the UK

National 5 > Physical Environments > Rivers and Their Valleys > The major rivers of the UK

The major rivers of the UK

Rivers are an essential part of the water cycle, functioning like natural drainage systems by collecting rainwater from their surrounding regions, known as the catchment area. The beginning of a river is called its source, typically found in highland or mountainous regions. As the river moves downhill, it carries water to the sea, ending at the river’s mouth. The image below illustrates the locations of several key rivers in the UK. Each river starts in an upland area and flows to the sea.

Check Your Understanding

Test Yourself

Summary

The Role of Rivers in the Water Cycle
Rivers are crucial components of the water cycle, acting as natural drainage systems by collecting rainwater from their catchment areas.
River Origins and Flow
A river begins at its source, typically in highland or mountainous regions, and flows downhill to its mouth, where it meets the sea.
The River Spey and River Tay
The River Spey is known for its fast flow and whisky distilleries in the Scottish Highlands, while the River Tay, Scotland’s longest river, flows through Perth and Dundee.
The River Clyde and River Forth
The River Clyde, associated with shipbuilding, flows through Glasgow, and the River Forth empties into the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh.
The River Thames and River Severn
The River Thames flows through southern England, including London, and the River Severn, the UK’s longest river, stretches from Wales through the West Midlands to the Bristol Channel.