The River Ellen is a classic northwest Cumbrian spate river stretching approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) from its headwaters on the Skiddaw massif in the Northern Fells of the Lake District to its mouth at Maryport harbour on the Solway Firth. Flowing generally westward through a rural landscape, the river passes through Uldale, Ireby, Boltongate, Baggrow, Blennerhasset, and Aspatria before turning southwest past Oughterside, Gilcrux, Bullgill, Crosby, and Dearham. As a typical spate stream, the Ellen's character is shaped by rainfall and seasonal flows, making it a dynamic and rewarding fishery for those who time their visits well. The river's dale is historically known as Allerdale, and the Ellen holds a remarkable place in local history — it has produced pink freshwater pearls since before Roman times.