The River Ellen is a river in the English county of Cumbria (traditionally in Cumberland).
The river rises on the Uldale Fells and runs in a generally western direction, passing Uldale, Ireby, Boltongate, Baggrow and Blennerhasset parish boundary and Aspatria.
From there, it continues southwest (instead of more northwesterly) past Oughterside, Gilcrux, Bullgill, Crosby and Dearham, before flowing into the Solway Firth at Maryport.
The river gives its name to the region of Allerdale.
Tributaries include:
This river has produced pink freshwater pearls since pre-Roman times.
It passes the boundaries of Netherhall School, Maryport.