This is the outcome of a CIRIA research project aimed at providing guidance on the selection and design of methods of bank protection on rivers, canals, navigable waterways and drains, with particular reference to UK practice. The project emphasized the range and scale of bank protection in the UK. Its specific objectives were to identify the processes of erosion, to review present design practice and to identify the engineering, economic and environmental parameters affecting the choice of protection methods in different locations. This report draws together information from a review of published technical literature, a questionnaire survey of engineers and site inspections and experience. The authors also held discussions with water authorities, government organizations, public authorities, private owners, consultants, contractors, manufacturers and research organizations.