ABSTRACTMeasurements of meander wavelength and cross-section scale, averaged on a reach basis, are related to estimates of the mean annual flood from eleven upland catchments. Results support the hydrological control of the scale of such coarse-bedload channels and these are discussed in comparison with relationships involving different types of channel. There is however, high variability about these mean conditions, and this is attributable to patterns of confinement imposed on upland channels and on variability on floodplain materials in this environment. Environmental influences are outlined at a reach and bend scale.