The River Chew is a scenic 27-kilometre (17-mile) watercourse flowing through the heart of Somerset, England, originating in the Mendip Hills near Chewton Mendip at an elevation of 305 metres (1,001 feet) before descending to meet the River Avon at Keynsham at just 10 metres above sea level. Draining a catchment of approximately 145 square kilometres, the Chew is a classic English lowland river that supports an impressive mix of both coarse and game fish species. The river winds through a pastoral landscape of lush wetlands and ancient woodlands, with riparian vegetation providing vital habitat corridors for fish, invertebrates, and wildlife. Downstream of Chew Valley Lake, roughly one third of the catchment is impounded by man-made structures including weirs and sluice gates, which have in places converted natural riffle-pool habitat into slower, more canalised sections. Despite these challenges, the Chew remains a richly productive fishery and a beloved destination for anglers across the Bristol Avon region.